By Ashley Reyes

There is still time to submit nominations for the SEMA Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) Robert E. Petersen Media Award, an award that honors an automotive journalist for their impact on the motorsports industry.  

👉 Nominate here by January 2.  

Created in memory of Hot Rod magazine founder Robert E. Petersen, the award recognizes a journalist who has elevated the stature and raised awareness of the motorsports industry with positive content.  

"Journalists play a vital role in telling the stories of this great industry," said MPMC Council Director Marcy Yanus. "This award honors their contributions and ensures that their legacy and impact are never forgotten."  

The Robert E. Petersen Award recipient will be announced in January 2026 during the reception at the MPMC Media Trade Conference, an exclusive event that brings together manufacturers and media for three days of networking and collaboration, January 27-29, 2026, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Anaheim South in Anaheim, California.

Don't miss your chance to join MPMC in celebrating the content that moves the motorsports industry forward. Nominate today! 

By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings.

Enthusiast Auto Holdings

Vice President of Sales in Wadsworth, Ohio

Enthusiast Auto Holdings, the e-commerce company, seeks a leader for its retail, wholesale and installer (B2B) team.

McLeod Racing

Technical Sales Representative in Anaheim, California

McLeod Racing is looking to add another team member; applicants must be well-spoken and have a mechanical understanding of cars.

New Creations 517 LLC

Paint and Body Technician in Lattimore, North Carolina

The company seeks someone to provide metal/panel replacement, body work and paint work.

Whether you're an employer or an industry professional, the SEMA Career Center offers powerful tools—like resume writing help, coaching and employer search features for job seekers, plus free internship postings and affordable access to qualified candidates for employers. Get started at jobs.sema.org. 

SEMA makes no representation or warranty of any kind concerning the reliability or accuracy of information provided directly or indirectly on or through semajobs.com or its related sites. All information is provided on an "as-is" basis. Users of this site do so at their own risk. Read more Terms & Conditions here.

Feed image courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

Racetech USA

Full Carbon 8119 Series Drag Race Seat Range

Racetech USA has launched its lightest seat range ever with the full carbon-fiber 8119 series, the manufacturer announced. The RT8119 and RT8119HR are designed with Racetech’s proven ergonomic shell architecture and built from premium carbon fiber. The RT8119 will be offered in two sizes, ranging from 11.76 to 11.86 lbs., while its head restraint counterpart, the RT8119HR, will be offered in three sizes, ranging from 11.66 lbs. to 12.1 lbs. Both seat models accept a seven-point harness with reverse submarine belts in alignment with the latest NHRA tech regulations.

Racetech-usa.com

McLeod Racing

Pro Pack Clutch Kits for V6 Ford Mustangs

McLeod has released its new Pro Pack Single-Disc Clutch Kits for V6 Ford Mustangs. Each kit includes the Super Street Pro Single-Disc Clutch, engineered for both street and track enthusiasts. The dual organic and ceramic clutch disc ensures smooth and consistent engagement, while the high-clamp-load pressure plate delivers easy pedal effort, according to the manufacturer. The kit includes a billet steel flywheel and is tailored to fit both cable-driven and hydraulic applications. Cable-driven models feature a cable, quadrant and adjuster, while hydraulic applications include a hydraulic bearing and stainless-steel line.

Jeep JL and Gladiator Adventure Series Upgrade

The McLeod Adventure Series clutch system for Jeep JL and Gladiator eliminates weak points of the stock setup with durable, race-proven materials, according to McLeod. Features include a 45-lb. billet steel flywheel for improved heat dissipation and drivability, an 11-in. pressure plate and reinforced disc designed to correct OEM misalignment issues, an all-metal release system to replace all plastic components and plug-and-play fitment.

McleodRacing.com

Competition Clutch

245 Series Twin-Disc Clutch Kits for Toyota 2JZ to T56 Transmission

Competition Clutch is now offering its 245 Series Twin-Disc Clutch Kit for Toyota 2JZ to T56 transmissions, available in both street and track versions. The 245 Series will be offered with a range of power-handling options, including Stage 1 (up to 800 hp) with dual organic discs, Stage 2 (up to 1,000 hp) built with ceramic twin discs and Stage 3 (up to 1,200 hp) with a twin ceramic disc setup.

Competitionclutch.com

By SEMA News Editors

The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Polish overall win went to Troy Trepanier and his '36 Ford roadster.

This year's SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish once again showcased the industry's most talented builders and most ambitious custom creations, culminating in an unforgettable finale on the SEMA Show floor. From early judging rounds to the final unveiling of this year's champion, the competition delivered standout craftsmanship, intense creativity and plenty of can't-miss moments. The competition was ultimately won by Troy Trepanier and his '36 Ford roadster (read more here).

The following gallery captures the builds, the builders, the behind-the-scenes action and the excitement of the crowd as the top contenders battled for the industry's highest honor during this year's 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas.

Relive the innovation, energy and artistry that defined this year's Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish with the below SEMA Live presented by AutoZone recap video (starting at 2:10:50), and the following photo gallery.

Mastery on Display: Highlights From 2025 Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish

Crowds gather as the top finalists are revealed on the SEMA Battle of the Builders stage.

This year's SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish competition featured some tough competition all year, but especially leading up to the Final Four vehicles seen below.

Troy Trepanier's overall winning '36 Ford Roadster.

Tim Franklin's '60 Porsche Custom 356.

Thomas Dickerson's '67 Chevrolet C10.

Ron Jones' '73 Volkswagen Thing.

Custom craftsmanship was on full display during this year's SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish competition.

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.

The following is a message to SEMA Members from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola about the 2026 Board of Directors nominations, which are now open to SEMA members online here:

Dear SEMA Member:

A strong SEMA Board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. As a member of the Association, we are currently seeking your recommendation of industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors.

Previously, the board was comprised of representatives from four distinct sectors of the industry: manufacturing, distributor/retailer, manufacturer's representative, organizations and services. Under the newly amended bylaws, board members will be selected based on their relevant industry and association knowledge and leadership experience, without the limitation of the specific sector affiliation. This change is designed to enhance the board's overall strength and flexibility by widening the pool of potential candidates and allowing the nominating committee to focus on identifying the most capable and qualified individuals.

"This evolution in our governance structure is a reflection of the dynamic nature of our industry," said SEMA Board of Directors Chair Melanie White. "By focusing on expertise and leadership rather than sector representation, we're positioning the association to better serve our members and adapt to future challenges."

This evolution also expands opportunities for all SEMA members to participate in board service, removing previous structural limitations and enabling broader engagement across the membership. The nominating committee will continue to play a key role by offering guidance on board composition, including member categories and industry areas that may benefit from representation.

"This change empowers us to build a Board that truly reflects the diversity and depth of our industry," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "It's a forward-thinking move that will help us remain relevant, responsive, and resilient while opening the door for more members to contribute their expertise at the highest level."

Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors, which are now open here and at the link below, are due on Monday, January 5, 2026. 

We urge you to take part in the nominations process--our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the Board, but we need you to help bring them to the attention of the Nominating Committee. Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Sincerely,

Mike Spagnola

SEMA President and CEO

This article was originally published on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

With President Trump and Sen. Warren both voicing support, the military right-to-repair issue gains rare cross-aisle momentum, and SEMA's advocacy is shaping the national conversation.
 

U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., is tapping into SEMA's position as a leader on the military right-to-repair issue, sharing the aftermarket's perspective as she amplifies the fight nationally. SEMA is prominently featured in Sen. Warren's recent press release on the issue, including a quote from the organization and a citation of our letter, signed by more than 300 small businesses seeking to supply the military with vehicle parts to support readiness. 

• The bipartisan effort, which has won over President Trump, would insert right-to-repair reforms into the FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), opening a potential new pathway for aftermarket industry businesses to engage in government contracting to sell their parts to the military. 

Sen. Warren's engagement with SEMA further elevates the role our industry plays in Washington, D.C., as a solution-oriented industry seeking common-sense solutions that empower American small businesses and enable the aftermarket to innovate and thrive. In fact, in a letter to the National Defense Industrial Association, the trade association for big defense contractors, regarding its opposition to the bipartisan right to repair reform in the FY 2026 NDAA, Warren emphasizes the importance of the specialty automotive aftermarket, which emerged after service members returned home from World War II and put to use skills learned during their service. 

"Before the consolidation of the defense industrial base and after World War II, tens of thousands of service members returned home and created the specialty automotive aftermarket," wrote Warren. "They utilized their engineering expertise to improve the performance of motor vehicles, creating products to increase everything from horsepower to handling to the style of their vehicles. Allowing these same opportunities for service members to develop skills repairing and maintaining complex systems will benefit them--and the entire American economy--in their post-military careers."

Questions? Contact SEMA's Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs, Eric Snyder, at erics@sema.org.

Images courtesy of Shutterstock

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Radflo Suspension Technology as the council's newest member spotlight company. Get to know their story in the SEMA News interview with AJ Grasso, Radflo Suspension Technology sales and marketing manager, below. 

SEMA News: Tell us the story of Radflo Shocks. How did the company start and what was your breakthrough moment?   

AG: In the late '80s, on the rugged terrain just outside Johannesburg, South Africa, two brothers--Glenn and Warren Classen--were chasing more than just speed. They were chasing perfection. Becoming a family of racers, weekends meant wrenching on trucks and testing limits in the wild African bush. But as their ambitions grew, they ran into a hard truth: the suspension systems available at the time simply couldn't keep up. 

So, they built their own. 

What began as a garage project--hand-fabricating shock absorbers to survive the punishing terrain of off-road rally raids--quickly turned into something more. Friends noticed. Racers asked for custom builds. Word spread. The brothers didn't just create shocks that performed; they created shocks that lasted. 

By the mid-'90s, their reputation had crossed oceans. Teams competing in Baja, Dakar and King of the Hammers started taking notice. That's when Glenn Classen made the leap. He packed up his tools, his passion, and his relentless pursuit of excellence, and moved operations to Southern California--the beating heart of off-road racing. There, Radflo Suspension Technology was born. 

Today, Radflo builds high-performance shock absorbers and suspension systems for racing, recreational, mining, emergency, and military applications. Whether it's a custom setup for a desert pre-runner, a reliable kit for an overland rig, or precision-tuned coilovers for a rock crawler, every Radflo product is engineered to perform and custom-made to order. 

But no matter how far the company has come, that garage spirit remains. Radflo is still family-owned. Still testing in the real world. Still listening to racers, builders and adventurers. Still obsessed with building the best shock possible. 

SN: What's going on these days? What projects are you most excited about?   

AG: One of our proudest recent innovations is the launch of our UTV-specific internal bypass shocks called the WORKS SERIES with DYNAMIC RIDE TECHNOLOGY, developed from the ground up for today's high-performance side-by-sides. As UTVs get faster, more powerful, and more capable, their suspension demands the same sophistication as full-size off-road race vehicles. That's where Radflo comes in. These shocks aren't just rebranded automotive dampers--they're purpose-built for UTV dynamics, tested in the dunes, dialed in on the rocks, and race-proven in the desert. 

SN: What's the best piece of advice you have for professionals getting started in the aftermarket?   

AG: "Don't chase trends--chase problems and solve them better than anyone else." 

In the aftermarket world, it's easy to get caught up in hype--what's flashy, what's trending, what everyone on social media is building. But real, lasting success comes from listening to the people in the pits, on the trails, and behind the wheel. Focus on solving real problems--whether that's improving ride quality, simplifying installation, or delivering better durability where others fall short. 

That's how Radflo was built: by listening, engineering, testing, and refining--over and over again. If you make products that genuinely perform, your reputation will do more marketing than any ad campaign ever could. 

So be patient, be curious, and stay close to your customers. The aftermarket isn't just about parts--it's about people who rely on those parts when failure isn't an option. 

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates. 

By SEMA News Editors

Avery Dennison Announces 2026 Training Schedule

Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions has announced its 2026 training and certification exam schedule.

The company's expert-led workshops provide in-depth, hands-on instruction with a wide range of films, including Supreme Wrapping Film/Vehicle Color Change, Commercial Wraps, Wet-Apply and Dry-Apply Paint Protection Film, and Automotive and Architectural Window Film. All skill levels are welcome and no previous experience is required.

New Classes and Learning Opportunities for 2026:

• PrismaPro Dry-Apply Color PPF Training--This workshop will feature the new dry-apply color paint protection film (launching in 2026) and help installers learn best-practice techniques for installing these films.
• Commercial Wrap Training--Updated class instruction to focus on commercial wrapping, with each session now including transit vans.
• Advanced Wrap Training--Now available to all installers who have taken an Avery Dennison wrap training course over the past five years; the course is no longer limited to only certified wrap installers.

Wrap training class size will be reduced by 22% in 2026, the company announced, to allow more personal instruction and more hands-on time for each student. 

"Our expert-led workshops are designed to support all skill levels. Participants gain in-depth knowledge, plus learn tips and tricks that distinguish excellent installers," said Graeme McKnight, marketing program associate at Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions. "After training by an Avery Dennison specialist, attendees will be able to deliver professional results that consistently exceed customer expectations."

Avery Dennison training sessions offer live demonstrations and hands-on practice with trusted, experienced trainers, and 90% of each course focuses on hands-on learning to improve cutting skills, learn material properties and refine installation techniques. 

Available from applicable classes, participants receive a free roll of film, free installation tools and a 33% discount for a one-year membership to The Wrap Institute. 

Wrap training may be combined with the Avery Dennison Certified Wrap Installer (CWI) exam.

For more information about the Avery Dennison 2026 installation training and certification classes, go to graphics.averydennison.com/training. 

Wharton Automotive Group Welcomes Tom Kundrick as Director of Motorsports, Announces McLeod, Competition Clutch Distribution and Product Expansions

Wharton Automotive Group, parent company of McLeod, FTI Performance, Silver Sport Transmissions, Competition Clutch and Independence Driveline, has named Tom Kundrick as its new director of motorsports.

In his new role, Kundrick will lead the group's motorsports initiatives, connecting the racer with the industry's best driveline components and technical support.

Kundrick brings more than a decade of experience in the performance aftermarket, including key roles at Mickey Thompson and Pro Torque. With deep roots in the racing community, he will work directly with teams and drivers to ensure they have the right drivetrain components to reach the winner's circle, the company said.

"My goal is to deliver top-quality driveline products on time," said Kundrick, based in Ohio. "I'm excited to represent the Wharton Automotive Group brands at the track and to help develop products that the racer truly needs."

McLeod Named TREMEC International Elite Distributor

McLeod has been appointed a TREMEC International Elite Distributor, expanding its reach and ability to supply high-performance aftermarket TREMEC transmissions and driveline components to enthusiasts.

TREMEC manufactures aftermarket performance manual transmissions, including the TKX, T-56 Magnum and T-5 series. As an Elite Distributor, McLeod will provide international customers with access to the full lineup of TREMEC performance transmissions and technical support, along with global shipping capabilities.

"Becoming a TREMEC International Elite Distributor reinforces our dedication to performance enthusiasts worldwide," said Bob Scheid, vice president of McLeod. "TREMEC's transmissions are the gold standard for performance builds, and McLeod is proud to make them more accessible to customers everywhere."

Competition Clutch Expands into European Market with New Line of Street and Track Clutches

Competition Clutch, a manufacturer of high-performance clutch systems, is expanding into the European performance market with a complete line of street and track clutches designed for BMW, Volkswagen, Audi and Porsche applications.

The new line will feature multiple performance levels tailored to the needs of European enthusiasts. Initial product releases will begin before the end of 2025, with a wider range launching in early 2026.

"Our mission is to bring Competition Clutch's performance and reliability to a broader audience," said Chris Troxel, brand manager for Competition Clutch, based in Anaheim, California. "European enthusiasts expect precision, durability and drivability--and that's exactly what these new clutches deliver, whether on the street or at the track."

For more information, visit mcleodracing.com or competitionclutch.com.

F1 Arcade Las Vegas to Host Official Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Events

F1 Arcade Las Vegas, the newly opened entertainment venue, will host a lineup of events in celebration of the upcoming Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.

F1 Arcade Las Vegas is inviting guests to attend the Official After-Party on Thursday, November 20, the Official Las Vegas Qualifying Watch Party on Friday, November 21, the Official Las Vegas Watch Party on Saturday, November 22, and brunch on Sunday, November 23.

At all watch parties, guests will be able to catch the action live on the venue's TV screens with commentary, along with DJs and hosts, plus quizzes, competitions and chances to win exciting prizes. Unlimited sim racing across the venue's 87 full-motion simulators one hour before each race and throughout the watch parties and after party will also be available.

For more information, visit f1arcade.com.

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. 

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