Thu, 04/23/2026 - 09:51

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Garage and Autel logos over a photo of an ADAS calibration training session.

 

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


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

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

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

Note: The "Day 3" option requires an additional fee. 

👉 Reserve your spot now at the Autel Academy website: autel.us/autel-academy (select ADAS TRAINING, then click the "Detroit" tab). Previous SEMA Garage AUTEL training sessions sold out quickly, and organizers encourage early registration, especially for the limited-capacity Detroit event.

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

SEMA Garage ADAS Training calibration

 

Thu, 04/23/2026 - 08:40

By SEMA News Editors

A photo of Charley Holden.

 

Charles 'Charley' Holden, founder of truck accessory retailer Cap World and former chair of the SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA), recently passed away. He was 82.  
 

Cap World shared the following:
 

Charles Augustus "Charley" Holden, 82, formerly of Melrose, Massachusetts, passed away at his Middleton home surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
 

Charley was born on October 5, 1943, in Melrose to the late Charles Holden Sr. and Florence (Risteen). Survived by his wife and best friend, Kathleen (Cunningham) Holden. He was the proud father of his children: Jennifer Burke (Joseph) of South Burlington, Vermont, Charles "Chad" Holden III (Victoria) of Windermere, Florida, and Sean Chandler of Weymouth. Charlie took great delight in his five grandchildren: Shane and Kiley Burke, Charles IV, Patrick, and Ryan Holden. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara Scott of Reading; his nephews, Garth and Andrew; his niece, Amy; and their children.
 

There was passion in Charley's voice when he spoke about his family, hockey, Norwich University, or his company, Cap World. An honest, warm quality that was immediately likable.
 

Charley graduated from Melrose High School, class of 1962, but not before securing the New England State (NE) Championship with the hockey team. He attended Kent's Hill Preparatory School in Maine before entering his freshman year at Norwich University (NU), in Vermont, where he played hockey and was a member of the ROTC. Charley rose to the rank of Cadet Major, serving as class officer for four years, chairman of the honor committee, president of the varsity club, and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in 1967. Melrose High and NU later inducted him into their athletic Hall of Fame for his hockey prowess.
 

He served in the U.S. Army, assigned to Fort Knox, Tennessee, and in Vietnam, and was honorably discharged as a captain in the early '70s.
 

In 1974, Charley formed Charles Holden Associates Inc., which would become the largest independent manufacturer's representative for recreational vehicles in New England. He also opened retail sports stores and co-owned a nursing home before venturing into truck accessories and founding Cap World Inc. in 1985, with multiple locations in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maryland and Florida.
 

His winning attitude and work ethic were infectious. Charley's business ventures allowed him to be involved in other activities; many revolved around an ice-hockey rink. Over a decade of coaching youth hockey and serving as commissioner of various hockey leagues at the regional and state levels, Charley always kept his skates on. From 1972 to 1985, he was an ice hockey official with the ECAC, officiating seven Bean Pot Tournaments, 10 Division I and II playoffs and three national championships. He then served 12 years as the NCAA hockey officials coordinator. Charley was instrumental in the fruition of NU's Kreitzberg Arena, which he deemed the best Division III arena in the country.
 

As a board member or president of numerous clubs, including the Friends of Mel Foundation, Norwich University Board of Trustees and president of the Blue Line Club at NU. He was proud to be a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company. His spirituality was enhanced when he became a Knight in the Order of Malta, where he enjoyed annual pilgrimages to Lourdes, France.
 

While business and hockey played major roles in his life, Charley was a true friend. He loved spending time with friends, some of whom dated back to elementary school. Charley's family was his greatest pride and joy. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and spent as much time as he could with his family. Charley loved traveling, boating, attending sporting events, concerts and satisfying his sweet tooth with his loved ones.
 

Charley was a person of the utmost integrity, dignity and humility, with a keen sense of what was right and decent. He contributed his talents and financial support to numerous acquaintances, friends and charitable organizations.
 

Always in our hearts, Charley's legacy lives on through the many people he touched.

 

Background image courtesy of Shutterstock | Arthapicture

Thu, 04/23/2026 - 07:58

By the SEMA Businesswomen's Network

SEMA Show attendees doing a workshop in the SBN booth.

 

Women-owned businesses and companies that focus on advancing women don't want to miss this opportunity to partner with the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) to host an engaging activation in its 2026 SEMA Show booth.

 

2026 SBN Booth Experience
Who Can Apply: Women-owned businesses and brands in the automotive aftermarket
What Booth Partners Will Do: Host demonstrations, workshops or creative activations in the SBN SEMA Show Booth 
Where/When: 2026 SEMA Show, Las Vegas, November 3-6
Application Deadline: Sunday, May 10  

 

Button to Apply for the SBN Booth Experience.

 


To help deliver an unforgettable SEMA Show experience for women in the automotive aftermarket, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is inviting companies, brands and women-owned businesses to apply to become booth partners for 2026.
 

Spanning 20x30 sq. ft., the SBN booth is a high-traffic hub designed to showcase innovation, educate and celebrate the contributions of women across every segment of the automotive industry. To accomplish this goal, SBN is seeking partner companies to host interactive programming, hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, creator-focused content and meaningful networking.
 

Partner companies benefit from:
 

  • High visibility within a major Show hall
  • Shared traffic and energy generated by multiple activations
  • Hands-on engagement opportunities with attendees
  • Support from the SBN volunteer and leadership team
  • A collaborative environment that elevates all partners
  • A chance to give back while growing your brand presence

 

Eligibility Requirements
 

To ensure the booth has a strong presence of women-led education initiatives and showcases the contributions of women in the automotive aftermarket, partnering organizations must be:
 

  • An active SEMA member company
  • Female-owned or -operated
  • Dedicated to supporting women in the automotive aftermarket
  • Available during all Show hours to represent your company/organization at the booth
     

Apply today to become an SBN booth partner and benefit from increased brand visibility, a collaborative activation space and the support of a vibrant network of industry women.
 

To learn more about SBN, visit sema.org/sbn.  

 

Tue, 04/21/2026 - 23:33

By SEMA News Editors

 

An image of the new Las Vegas Convention Center.

 

If it's been a few years since attending the SEMA Show––first off, you've been majorly missing out––but secondly, you can expect a different experience upon arrival.

 

The Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), home to the SEMA Show, November 3-6, 2026, has completed a transformative renovation––one that goes far beyond a typical venue upgrade. It is a direct investment in the future of the SEMA Show experience.

 

Spanning 3.2 million sq. ft. across the Central, North and South Halls, the renovation introduces modernized infrastructure, enhanced acoustics, upgraded technology and a new 100,000-sq.-ft. Grand Lobby designed to improve flow, navigation and overall attendee comfort. The result: a more efficient, more connected and more dynamic environment for doing business at SEMA.

 

A Better SEMA Show Floor for Business

 

With improved layouts, advanced digital wayfinding and upgraded building systems, navigating the Show––and connecting with the right people––becomes easier and more intuitive.

 

An image of the inside of the updated Las Vegas Convention Center.

 

Exhibitors will benefit from better visibility and smoother traffic flow, while attendees can spend less time navigating and more time discovering products, meeting partners and closing deals.

 

The reimagined Las Vegas Convention Center campus introduces several standout upgrades, including a modernized Central Hall Grand Lobby filled with natural light, anchored by a massive 75-by-42-ft. digital screen and additional displays that create new branding opportunities.

 

A climate-controlled interior concourse now connects the North and South Halls for seamless indoor navigation, while the redesigned South Hall adds a new east entrance, a state-of-the-art boardroom and updated administrative spaces, all tied together by the extension of the West Hall's signature ribbon roof for a more cohesive look across the venue.

 

These upgrades, paired with existing infrastructure like the LVCC Loop passenger stations, help everyone focus on business.

 

See It for Yourself at the 2026 SEMA Show

 

An image of the newly upgraded Las Vegas Convention Center.

 

The SEMA Show always delivers unmatched access to the automotive aftermarket, and this year will be no different, other than a fully reimagined LVCC as the backdrop.

 

Exhibitors looking to maximize visibility and connect with qualified buyers should secure booth space early for the 2026 SEMA Show.

 

Attendees planning their visit can also expect a smoother, more engaging experience––registration opens May 4th. Mark the calendar and prepare to experience the upgraded venue firsthand.

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration opens on May 4th; to sign up for notifications, visit here. For more information, visit semashow.com. SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, 2026, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets when SEMA Show registration opens on May 4th. Sign up for updates.

 

Tue, 04/21/2026 - 23:33

By SEMA News Editors

 

An image of the new Las Vegas Convention Center.

 

If it's been a few years since attending the SEMA Show––first off, you've been majorly missing out––but secondly, you can expect a different experience upon arrival.

 

The Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), home to the SEMA Show, November 3-6, 2026, has completed a transformative renovation––one that goes far beyond a typical venue upgrade. It is a direct investment in the future of the SEMA Show experience.

 

Spanning 3.2 million sq. ft. across the Central, North and South Halls, the renovation introduces modernized infrastructure, enhanced acoustics, upgraded technology and a new 100,000-sq.-ft. Grand Lobby designed to improve flow, navigation and overall attendee comfort. The result: a more efficient, more connected and more dynamic environment for doing business at SEMA.

 

A Better SEMA Show Floor for Business

 

With improved layouts, advanced digital wayfinding and upgraded building systems, navigating the Show––and connecting with the right people––becomes easier and more intuitive.

 

An image of the inside of the updated Las Vegas Convention Center.

 

Exhibitors will benefit from better visibility and smoother traffic flow, while attendees can spend less time navigating and more time discovering products, meeting partners and closing deals.

 

The reimagined Las Vegas Convention Center campus introduces several standout upgrades, including a modernized Central Hall Grand Lobby filled with natural light, anchored by a massive 75-by-42-ft. digital screen and additional displays that create new branding opportunities.

 

A climate-controlled interior concourse now connects the North and South Halls for seamless indoor navigation, while the redesigned South Hall adds a new east entrance, a state-of-the-art boardroom and updated administrative spaces, all tied together by the extension of the West Hall's signature ribbon roof for a more cohesive look across the venue.

 

These upgrades, paired with existing infrastructure like the LVCC Loop passenger stations, help everyone focus on business.

 

See It for Yourself at the 2026 SEMA Show

 

An image of the newly upgraded Las Vegas Convention Center.

 

The SEMA Show always delivers unmatched access to the automotive aftermarket, and this year will be no different, other than a fully reimagined LVCC as the backdrop.

 

Exhibitors looking to maximize visibility and connect with qualified buyers should secure booth space early for the 2026 SEMA Show.

 

Attendees planning their visit can also expect a smoother, more engaging experience––registration opens May 4th. Mark the calendar and prepare to experience the upgraded venue firsthand.

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration opens on May 4th; to sign up for notifications, visit here. For more information, visit semashow.com. SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, 2026, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets when SEMA Show registration opens on May 4th. Sign up for updates.

 

Tue, 04/21/2026 - 13:50

By SEMA News Editors

 

2026 SEMA Market Trends and Industry Update.

 

The automotive aftermarket is entering a new phase––less volatile than the pandemic years, but no less complex.

 

The "2026 SEMA Future Trends and Industry Update" offers a clear-eyed look at what's changing across the economy, vehicle landscape and consumer behavior––and what it all means for automotive aftermarket businesses.

 

This article highlights some key takeaways, but it only scratches the surface. The full report dives deeper with data, forecasts and analysis designed to help businesses plan what's next.

 

Red button with the words View Report.

 

A Return to "Normal"––But a Different Normal

 

After years of disruption, the specialty-equipment industry is stabilizing. Sales have reached $52.65 billion, with growth expected to settle into a more typical 3%–4% annual pace.

 

That doesn’t mean things are going back to the way they were.

 

Consumer demand remains strong, but it's navigating higher prices, elevated borrowing costs and ongoing uncertainty around tariffs and inflation. For aftermarket businesses, this creates a more balanced––but more competitive––environment.

 

What it means: Companies that focus on value, differentiation and service will be better positioned as the market normalizes.

 

The Consumer Balancing Act

 

Today's consumers are still spending––but not evenly.

 

On one end, affluent buyers continue to invest in premium upgrades and personalization. On the other, cost-conscious consumers are prioritizing essential maintenance and lower-cost improvements.

 

What it means: Successful businesses will need to serve both sides––offering premium innovation alongside practical, value-driven solutions.

 

Trucks, CUVs and an Aging Fleet Drive Opportunity

 

The vehicles Americans drive continue to define the aftermarket.

 

  • Light trucks and CUVs now account for more than 80% of new vehicle sales.
  • The total vehicle on the road has surpassed 295 million vehicles––and continues to grow.
  • Vehicles are staying on the road longer than ever.

 

That combination is powerful.

 

A larger, older fleet translates directly into increased demand for repair, maintenance and personalization––core strengths of the aftermarket.

 

What it means: Product development and fitment strategies that align with trucks, crossovers and aging vehicles will remain critical.

 

EVs Slow, Hybrids Surge, ICE Stays Relevant

 

Electrification is still evolving––but not as quickly or as predictably as once expected.

  • Electric vehicle (EV) adoption is slowing amid cost concerns and infrastructure challenges.
  • Automakers are recalibrating investments.
  • Hybrids are gaining traction as a practical middle ground.

 

Meanwhile, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles will remain a dominant force for years to come.

 

What it means: The aftermarket doesn't need to pivot overnight. ICE products remain essential, hybrid opportunities are growing and EV strategies can be more measured.

 

Financing Is Changing Ownership Cycles

 

Higher interest rates are reshaping how––and whether––consumers buy vehicles.

  • New-vehicle rates hover around 7.6%.
  • Used-vehicle rates are even higher, around 11.4%.
  • Monthly payments exceeding $1,000 are increasingly common.

 

At the same time, tighter lending standards are pushing more buyers out of the new-vehicle market.

 

What it means: Vehicle owners are holding onto vehicles longer—creating sustained demand for aftermarket parts, upgrades and services.

 

ADAS: Opportunity Meets Complexity

 

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are no longer optional––they’re becoming virtually standard.

 

From automatic emergency braking to lane-keeping systems, these technologies are rapidly expanding across the vehicle fleet, with additional regulations on the horizon.

 

But they also introduce new challenges.

Even small modifications––lift kits, bumpers, lighting––can affect sensor performance, and there's still no universal standard across OEMs.

 

What it means: Aftermarket companies must invest in understanding ADAS integration, calibration and testing. Resources like SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar and Detroit are becoming essential tools for navigating this complexity.

 

A Market Full of Opportunity––If You Know Where to Look

 

Despite economic pressures and industry shifts, the fundamentals remain strong. Key opportunities include:

  • A growing truck and CUV market.
  • An aging vehicle fleet.
  • Continued enthusiast engagement––especially among younger consumers.
  • Expanding hybrid adoption.
  • New product categories shaped by ADAS.

 

At the same time, challenges––from tariffs to technician shortages––require strategic planning and adaptability.

 

Get the Full Picture

 

The "2026 SEMA Future Trends and Industry Update Report" delivers far more than high-level insights. Inside, you'll find:

  • Detailed charts and forecasts.
  • Consumer behavior analysis.
  • Segment-specific data.
  • Deeper dives into the trends shaping your business.

 

In a market defined by change, staying informed isn't optional––it's a competitive advantage.

 

Access the full report to see what's next for the automotive aftermarket––and how to prepare for it.

 

Red button with the words View Report.

 

SEMA's Market Research team provides information and insight to help SEMA members and the specialty auto aftermarket industry make better business decisions. Its focus is on providing reports, data and consultation to help companies understand the current market and state of consumers. Learn more at sites.sema.org/market-research.

 

Tue, 04/21/2026 - 11:46

By Ashley Reyes

 

A graphic promoting the upcoming webinar.

 

Hot-rod business owners and professionals have limited time left to register for the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) General Membership Meeting and Panel Discussion on "Building Your Future Workforce: Practical Hiring Pathways for Automotive Businesses."

 

RSVP here button.

 

Taking place Tuesday, April 28, at 10:00 a.m. PDT/1:00 p.m. EDT, this session will help automotive businesses strengthen their future workforce by understanding proven talent pathways, including hands-on training, certified education, and institutional college programs, as well as helping students and parents see that there is more than one road to success.

 

Moderated by Kevin Webb, the owner at Hot Rod Custom Garage, the session will feature panelists George Arrants, vice president at ASE Education Foundation; Cindy Barlow, director of industry relations at Wyotech; and Aaron Valencia, executive director and founder at the Lost Angels Career Center.

 

Together, they will help shop owners understand what students value today, how to communicate career progression clearly and how to build a culture that supports long-term retention and growth.

 

Discussion topics include:

  • Talent pipeline challenges and growth strategies.
  • Multiple entry ways into the industry.
  • The early engagement and mentorship model.
  • Profession and retention strategies.
  • Aligning shop culture with next-generation workforce expectations.
  • Action steps for partnership and hiring within 90 days.
  • Executing a long-term industry-to-education vision.

 

Whether you're looking to attract, develop or retain the next generation of talent at your business, this event will help you understand the training pathways available today, how to connect with emerging talent and actionable steps you can take immediately to begin building a stronger workforce pipeline.

 

Save your seat for the virtual session.

 

Tue, 04/21/2026 - 11:40

By Ashley Reyes

Graphic for the SEMA FLN Lunch and Learn on building and growing an automotive shop.

 

One week remains to secure your spot for the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) virtual Lunch and Learn, "Inside the Shop: An Automotive Shop Ownership Panel" on Thursday, April 30, at 10:30 a.m. PDT/12:30 p.m. EDT.
 

Running an automotive shop today takes more than technical skill; it demands business strategy, customer insight and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing industry. During this session, three shop owners from different corners of the automotive world will share what it really takes to build, grow and sustain a successful shop.
 

Moderated by Aly Oakley, sales at BrakeQuip, the session will feature panelists Tara Demuth, co-owner/general manager of R&S Truck Caps, Zack Hampton, co-owner of Chromotize, and Sara Morosan, vice president of LGE-CTS Motorsports. Together, they will discuss the foundational business elements required to own and operate an automotive aftermarket shop and build a culture within a business.
 

Key takeaways include:
 

  • How to transition from an employee to an owner.
  • Strategies for culture building and leadership development in business.
  • What all goes into business ownership.
  • Unique challenges of owning a shop in the automotive aftermarket.
  • How to navigate trends in the automotive aftermarket.


Whether your goal is to own an automotive shop one day or you are new to shop ownership, this event is your opportunity to learn from current shop owners who run a shop day-to-day.
 

🎁 Bonus incentive: The first 20 SEMA members to register for the session in advance and attend the full webinar will receive an Uber Eats voucher to be used after the webinar through the following day.
 

Register here.

 

Tue, 04/21/2026 - 11:04

By SEMA News Editors

 

An image of the SEMA Members Lounge at the SEMA Show.

The Members Lounge at the SEMA Show is the perfect spot for industry members to regroup away from the busy SEMA Show floor.

 

Industry professionals already recognize the energy, deal-making and connections that define the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Still, the savviest of them also know to elevate their Show experience with SEMA membership.

 

A red button with the words Learn More.

 

 

Real SEMA Show Perks for SEMA Members

 

Active SEMA members receive exclusive access and perks at the SEMA Show, including:

  • Member Lounges: Take a moment off the Show floor with light refreshments and a calm place to recharge your mind, body and devices.
  • Private Meeting Rooms: Impress and connect with colleagues and business partners in a quiet, professional setting off the Show floor.
  • Networking Opportunities: Meet industry leaders and peers away from the busy Show floor.

 

The result is a more efficient and productive Show experience, helping members make the most of their trip to Las Vegas.

 

SEMA Membership Has Year-Round Business Benefits, Too

 

SEMA membership also opens the doors for aftermarket businesses seeking to elevate their brand with exclusive, valuable benefits, like discounts and partner offers, reducing everyday business expenses on shipping, insurance, software and more.

 

In addition, SEMA members stay ahead of industry trends with access to live and recorded webinars and workshops, plus industry data (including the sought-after Market Research reports).

 

SEMA membership also allows members to showcase their brands and connect with the right partners.

 

Make the Move: Join SEMA Membership Today

 

If the SEMA Show is where business begins, then SEMA membership is how it continues to grow. For owners, executives and key decision-makers, this is more than a typical membership program––it is a strategic advantage designed to help companies grow.

 

Businesses can explore how SEMA membership not only enhances the SEMA Show experience but also supports businesses year-round.

 

An image of a red button with the words JOIN MEMBERSHIP.

 

To learn more about SEMA and the services and discounts available to help drive your business to success, contact your Membership Team at 909-610-2030.

 

Tue, 04/21/2026 - 09:54

By SEMA News Editors

The Acura MDX Type S Overland Concept pictured on a mountain road.

 

SEMA, in collaboration with Acura, revealed a one-of-one '26 Acura MDX Type S Overland Concept, showcasing how modern OEM platforms can be thoughtfully reimagined through purposeful aftermarket upgrades to support off-road and overland adventure--without sacrificing daily comfort and refinement.
 

Designed and built at the SEMA Garage in Los Angeles, the MDX Type S Overland Concept showcases the innovation and technical expertise of SEMA-member companies. By pairing Acura's high-performance SUV architecture with cutting-edge aftermarket components, the build demonstrates a growing shift in the enthusiast market: the desire for "go anywhere" capability without sacrificing refined "daily driver" performance.
 

"This project is a perfect example of SEMA's mission in action--bringing OEMs and the aftermarket together to explore what's possible," said SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology & Product Development Luis Morales. "The 2026 Acura MDX Type S Overland Concept shows how the aftermarket can responsibly and creatively expand vehicle capability while retaining the refinement and performance consumers expect from a premium OEM."
 

Redefining the Modern Adventure Vehicle


Built on the performance-focused foundation of the '26 Acura MDX Type S, the vehicle was transformed into an adventure-ready, overland-capable concept through the integration of off-road wheels and tires, functional lighting, cargo solutions and camping equipment. The build is intended as a design and engineering exercise--not a production vehicle--to inspire enthusiasts and demonstrate fitment, function and integration across a modern OEM platform.

The Acura MDX Type S Overland Concept built at the SEMA Garage.


 

Multiple SEMA-member aftermarket brands contributed components to the project, including:
 

  • Baja Designs – XL Linkable Light Bar and Squadron Pro Ditch Lights
  • Black Rhino – Voll Wheels (18x8.5 ET25)
  • Falken – WildPeak A/T4W Tires (275/65R18)
  • Inspired Overland – Overland Stargazer Duo Rooftop Tent
  • NoLo Designs – Ditch Light Brackets
  • Prinsu – Roof Rack
  • RiG'd – UltraSwing Spare Tire Carrier


Each component was selected to support off-road durability, overland utility and cohesive visual integration--illustrating how aftermarket innovation can extend vehicle capability beyond its original design intent.
 

Built at the SEMA Garage


The vehicle was assembled at the SEMA Garage–Los Angeles, SEMA's OEM-agnostic facility dedicated to aftermarket testing, product development and advanced vehicle technology. The Garage provided the tools, expertise and environment necessary to develop and validate aftermarket solutions on the MDX Type S platform.
 

"Builds like this help SEMA and our members better understand new vehicle platforms and develop real-world solutions," said Morales. "It benefits the aftermarket, OEMs, and ultimately the enthusiast."
 

Public Debut at California's 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach


The 2026 Acura MDX Type S Overland Concept will made its public debut in the Acura display at the 2026 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, where attendees had the opportunity to see the one-off build up close. 
 

The SEMA Show: Where Aftermarket Trends Take Shape


At the 2025 SEMA Show, one standout trend was the growing number of performance-focused vehicles being outfitted for off-road and adventure use — a signal that enthusiasts increasingly want builds that don't fit neatly into a single category. While the MDX Type S isn't a supercar, this concept reflects the same go-anywhere mindset, translated into a premium SUV platform that many enthusiasts can realistically picture using every day.
 

Registration for the 2026 SEMA Show opens May 4, 2026. The Show remains the place where the industry gathers to spot what's next across trucks, SUVs, off-road, performance and lifestyle-driven builds.
 

For more information on SEMA, the SEMA Garage and OEM partnership programs, visit www.sema.org. For more information on the SEMA Show, visit www.semashow.com.