By SEMA News Editors

Resources for the 2025 SEMA Show exhibitors are now available online at semashow.com/exhibitor. This year's SEMA Show, November 4-7, 2025, in Las Vegas, is once again set to be the epicenter of the automotive aftermarket.

"SEMA compresses the time between product launch and orders, allowing us to generate revenue faster than if we were to just launch and wait around," said Jason Bruce of BluePrint Engines.

Of course, exhibiting at the SEMA Show puts brands in front of thousands of qualified domestic and international buyers and the most influential members of the media from every segment of the specialty-equipment industry. (Still need a booth? Secure one here).

To maximize ROI, exhibitors can utilize the Exhibitor Service Manual on semashow.com/exhibitor. The entire Exhibitor Service Manual is the official exhibitor's handbook for success, in addition to the relationships they form with their SEMA sales representative, the SEMA media team and the SEMA Show department. 

Below is a preview of the valuable resources to get exhibitors on the road to a successful 2025 SEMA Show.

1. Feature Vehicles

Found under "Vehicle/Car Display Opportunities," exhibitors can learn more about the rules, regulations and requirements for displaying a vehicle on the SEMA Show floor outside of a booth. New-for-2025: The deadline to submit Feature Vehicle applications is Friday, July 25, 2025. An additional labor fee will be charged to vehicles unable to operate/require a vehicle tow. Click here to read up on the Feature Vehicle guidelines or submit an application. 

2. New Product Showcase

Found under "Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships," exhibitors can submit products to the New Product Showcase--the top destination for buyers and media at the SEMA Show--to build brand awareness and generate leads. The first product entry is free for exhibitors, so it's a no-brainer to enter. Find more information on submitting a product, packaging or merchandising display here and complete an application for a new or featured product here. 

3. Budget Checklist

Found under "About the Show," the SEMA Show budget checklist is an essential tool for all participating exhibitors, but especially first-timers. Calculate all confirmed and projected fees for everything from booth space; exhibit design and building; electrical; freight and material handling and related services; plus marketing and staff expenses.

4. Deadlines List

Found under "About the Show," the SEMA Show deadline checklist provides key dates for exhibitors, including deadlines and rate increases.

5. Contact Information

Contact Information gives exhibitors a chance to contact Show organizers to help them succeed with categories like booth vehicles, feature vehicles, banquet tickets, the New Product Showcase, meeting rooms and more.

6. Parking at the SEMA Show

SEMA Show parking information is beneficial for exhibitors with trailers and those looking to discover where they can park leading up to and during the event.

7. LVCC Booth Services - Freeman

This section addresses Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) booth needs, including power, carpet, fixtures, freight, A/V and computer rentals, cleaning, signs and graphics and more. Note that exhibitors placed in Westgate Las Vegas should utilize the "Westgate Hotel - Booth Services" section of the Exhibitor Service Manual.

8. LVCC Booth Services - Other Approved Vendors

Access the approved vendors for lead retrieval, catering, insurance, vehicle detailing, tent and canopy rental, internet and telephone, photography, and more. Note that exhibitors placed in the Westgate Las Vegas should utilize the "Westgate Hotel - Booth Services" section.

9. Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships

This section provides successful marketing opportunities at the SEMA Show, including advertising opportunities, press conference applications, products for project-vehicle builders, PR opportunities, on-site sponsorships, celebrity appearances and directory upgrades. In addition, the application for the New Product Showcase appears here.

10. Guidelines & Policies

Discover essential information, including applications, fees, payments, permits, safety requirements and more.

11. Material Handling/Shipping Information

Learn the ABCs of Shipping a SEMA Show booth, direct-to-Show site shipping labels, freight services, marshaling yard delivery information, advance warehouse shipping labels, domestic shipping and international shipping, New Products shipping labels, material handling/drayage, outbound shipping, and heavy machinery.

12. 2025 SEMA Exhibitor Summit

Among the several exhibitor resources is the SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, a free program on June 25-27 in Vegas and the best way to get the most ROI. Exhibitors new and returning, can take advantage of SEMA value-added programs; use proven strategies to attract buyers to your booth; save money and resources on Show costs, such as material handling, electrical and related Show expenses; work one-on-one with Show experts to maximize your ROI; learn to properly plan and budget expenses and explore promotional opportunities through sponsorships and other methods. Hotel rooms will be provided for up to two guests in this valuable program; you can't afford to miss it!

Learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit and register for the program here.

Attendee registration is now open for the 2025 SEMA Show here. Questions? Call 909-396-0289 or email sales@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Valentine Performance Detailing

FlashDry Eco-Friendly Absorbent

Valentine Performance Detailing (VPD) has introduced new solutions for garage and paddock floor maintenance, including the FlashDry line of pro-grade spill management products which features a natural coir absorbent and a full range of pads, mats and spill kits, all designed to clean up oil, grease, gas or other liquids, according to the manufacturer.

Wilwood Disc Brakes

13.50-in. Superlite Rear Kits '07-'21 Jeep Wrangler/Gladiator

Wilwood has engineered a new rear big brake kit to accompany its front Aero6-DM brake kits for Jeep Wranglers (JK '07-'18, JL '18-'21) and Gladiators (JT '20-'21). The calipers feature rigid forged aluminum Superlite calipers and larger 13.50-in. premium alloy rotors for improved performance, pedal feel and better thermal capacity, according to the manufacturer, and were designed to be compatible with factory master cylinders, ABS where used, OE or Wilwood front brake kits, and will fit most 17-in. or larger wheels.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Alisa O'Banion, president and CEO at Texas Microfiber, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know O'Banion 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? 

Alisa O'Banion: I started Texas Microfiber 15 years ago after being laid off from a corporate executive position in 2008. The things I enjoy the most is the day-to-day problem solving and planning that needs to be implemented three to six months in advance. We are constantly adding new products to our offering and this is at least a six-month process from start to finish.

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

AO: The most challenging part of running my business is the juggling of financials and inventory. We have a lot of products coming in and a lot of products shipping out. It's a constant challenge to accurately plan what will sell and the lead time is lengthy to replenish stock. We also are challenged with the unknown issues of an importer which can present themselves outside of any pre-planned efforts on our part.

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

AO: I have been in the automotive industry for 15 years. This has been the first automotive industry job I have held. My background is commercial interior design which was my focus prior to starting my company.

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

AO: The three qualities that have worked for me are resiliency, resourcefulness and creativity. These traits have allowed me to pivot my career goal, find my niche in the industry and constantly make changes to adjust to the unknown and frequent chaotic world we live in.

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

AO: My biggest challenges have been to compete with the big boys and be taken seriously. This has shifted somewhat with reputation and time in the industry but is still present, nevertheless.

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

AO: Without naming names, my mentors are persons on the very large national/international corporate side who see how I have mastered the art of international sourcing and importer with predictability and reliability. They have been particularly supportive in times of unpredictability in the country and allowed me to do my job and provide effective solutions. Being the company's main pulse reader of the industry's direction brings value to our interactions and benefits us both.

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

AO: The best career advice I have ever received is, "it will be there in the morning." What that means is you don't need to spend 16 hours per day to solve the day's problems as they will be there in the morning along with the next day's challenges, and you are better served to stop, eat, relax and sleep in order to recharge and take on these challenges effectively and with good judgement.

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

AO: I have not always wanted to work in the automotive industry. Now that I am in the industry, I love it and find the most enjoyable part is the people I deal with on a day-to-day basis. Being exposed to the automotive industry has brought me a fresh perspective on how my creative talents can extend into areas that are new, allows fresh thinking as well as challenges that can be celebrated. Additionally, I have met a lot of stellar people along the way that I consider close friends.

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

AO: My father is always in my ear telling me to put a five-year plan in place. When I find myself outside of this plan--we all get busy and five years fly by like lightning--I always come back to this process. It is grounding and forces you to examine all the key components of your business and life. Being equipped with the facts of why, what and how to make solid day-to-day decisions is crucial to executing a plan successfully and seeing your hard work pay off and offer you the opportunity to look back and celebrate your win.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named April Wong, marketing specialist at Unicorn Tire, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

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

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

April Wong: "Adaptability is your greatest asset." This advice has shaped both my career and personal life. In marketing, especially in the tire industry, strategies, trends and consumer behaviors are constantly shifting. Being adaptable has allowed me to pivot when needed, stay ahead of trends and take on challenges with confidence. Personally, it's taught me to embrace change rather than fear it, leading to growth in all areas of my life.

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

AW: I've always been a car girl--there's just something about the automotive world that has intrigued me for as long as I can remember. Being in this industry allows me to blend that passion with my expertise in marketing, bringing products to life in a way that resonates with drivers and buyers. Tires are an essential yet often overlooked part of a vehicle, and I love the challenge of making them stand out. Plus, the fast-paced nature of the industry, the relationships I've built and the constant evolution of technology and trends keep me engaged.

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

AW: It depends on the weekend! I might be at a festival, soaking in the energy of live music, or in the gym, pushing my limits and setting new goals. Some weekends, you'll find me working a promo modeling gig with the Sullivan Agency, connecting with people and representing brands in a fast-paced environment. And when I'm not on the go, I'm probably in the kitchen cooking, spending time with loved ones or binging a good TV show.

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

AW: For me, preparation starts with organization. I make a list of key points, questions and objectives to keep everything structured. Research is a given, but I also think about the audience--what matters to them and how can I communicate my ideas in a way that resonates? Confidence comes from knowing my material, so I practice framing my thoughts concisely. And right before the meeting, I take a moment to reset--whether it's a deep breath or a quick mental run-through, it helps me walk in focused and ready to deliver.

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

AW: I'd love to have lunch with Bertha Benz. She wasn't just the wife of Karl Benz--she was the driving force (literally) behind the first long-distance automobile journey, proving the viability of cars to the world. Her determination, problem-solving skills and willingness to take risks resonate with me. She saw the potential in something before the world did and wasn't afraid to push boundaries. I'd love to hear her perspective on innovation, perseverance and what it was like to pave the way for the automotive industry as we know it today.

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

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

United States Representative Brett Guthrie (R-KY) speaks with a Holley employee.
 

Federal lawmakers were back in their districts while Congress was out of session for its Easter recess, providing an important opportunity to meet with constituents to understand the most important issues facing them. Holley Performance took advantage of this congressional district work period by hosting United States Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) for a tour of its new headquarters and meeting with the company's executive team. Rep. Guthrie, who represents Holley's Bowling Green, Kentucky, headquarters as the representative for Kentucky's 2nd Congressional District, also serves as the chairman of the House's important Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over issues affecting the automotive industry.

The visit provided an opportunity for Holley's executive team to discuss key automotive issues with Rep. Guthrie, who is no stranger to the industry. Before entering public service, he worked in his family's Bowling Green business, Trace Die Cast, Inc., a full-service aluminum die casting manufacturer and automotive parts supplier. Rep. Guthrie also served as a field artillery officer in the 101st Airborne Division--Air Assault at Fort Campbell.

(From left): Mark Lord, district director for Rep. Brett Guthrie; Matthew Stevenson, president and CEO of Holley; Rep. Guthrie; Carly Kennedy, executive vice president and general counsel of Holley; and Eric Snyder, senior director of federal government affairs for SEMA.

"It's crucial for our elected officials to understand firsthand the innovative and economic impact companies like Holley have on the automotive industry and the places we call home," said Matthew Stevenson, president and CEO of Holley. "We were honored to welcome Rep. Guthrie to our Holley Performance Brands headquarters in Bowling Green to showcase the work we're doing for performance enthusiasts, share the ways we are giving back in our communities and discuss how policy decisions can support the continued growth and success of the automotive aftermarket."
 

Matt Stevenson provides Rep. Brett Guthrie a tour of Holley’s Bowling Green, Kentucky, headquarters.
 

Hosting a site visit for your member of Congress and their staff is a powerful way to showcase your business, highlight your team's work and discuss key challenges and opportunities facing your company and the industry.

If you're interested in arranging a tour, SEMA is here to help. Our government affairs team will support you every step of the way, providing industry-specific economic data, policy talking points and other helpful resources to ensure a productive meeting.

SEMA staff can also draft and send the official invitation, coordinate the visit with your office, offer a pre-event briefing and assist with logistics on the day of the tour.

Ready to get started? Use this link or click the button below to let us know you're interested in hosting your elected officials.

For more information, contact Juan Mejia, SEMA's senior manager for federal government affairs, at juanm@sema.org.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

United States Representative Brett Guthrie (R-KY) speaks with a Holley employee.
 

Federal lawmakers were back in their districts while Congress was out of session for its Easter recess, providing an important opportunity to meet with constituents to understand the most important issues facing them. Holley Performance took advantage of this congressional district work period by hosting United States Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) for a tour of its new headquarters and meeting with the company's executive team. Rep. Guthrie, who represents Holley's Bowling Green, Kentucky, headquarters as the representative for Kentucky's 2nd Congressional District, also serves as the chairman of the House's important Energy and Commerce Committee, which has jurisdiction over issues affecting the automotive industry.

The visit provided an opportunity for Holley's executive team to discuss key automotive issues with Rep. Guthrie, who is no stranger to the industry. Before entering public service, he worked in his family's Bowling Green business, Trace Die Cast, Inc., a full-service aluminum die casting manufacturer and automotive parts supplier. Rep. Guthrie also served as a field artillery officer in the 101st Airborne Division--Air Assault at Fort Campbell.

(From left): Mark Lord, district director for Rep. Brett Guthrie; Matthew Stevenson, president and CEO of Holley; Rep. Guthrie; Carly Kennedy, executive vice president and general counsel of Holley; and Eric Snyder, senior director of federal government affairs for SEMA.

"It's crucial for our elected officials to understand firsthand the innovative and economic impact companies like Holley have on the automotive industry and the places we call home," said Matthew Stevenson, president and CEO of Holley. "We were honored to welcome Rep. Guthrie to our Holley Performance Brands headquarters in Bowling Green to showcase the work we're doing for performance enthusiasts, share the ways we are giving back in our communities and discuss how policy decisions can support the continued growth and success of the automotive aftermarket."
 

Matt Stevenson provides Rep. Brett Guthrie a tour of Holley’s Bowling Green, Kentucky, headquarters.
 

Hosting a site visit for your member of Congress and their staff is a powerful way to showcase your business, highlight your team's work and discuss key challenges and opportunities facing your company and the industry.

If you're interested in arranging a tour, SEMA is here to help. Our government affairs team will support you every step of the way, providing industry-specific economic data, policy talking points and other helpful resources to ensure a productive meeting.

SEMA staff can also draft and send the official invitation, coordinate the visit with your office, offer a pre-event briefing and assist with logistics on the day of the tour.

Ready to get started? Use this link or click the button below to let us know you're interested in hosting your elected officials.

For more information, contact Juan Mejia, SEMA's senior manager for federal government affairs, at juanm@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Legendary engine builder Ed Pink, who worked on some of the racing industry's best engines, has passed away, according to industry reports. He was 94.

Known by many as "The Old Master," Pink founded Ed Pink Racing Engines in 1958 and provided powerplants to top performers from the dragstrip to the oval track and everything in between. The business was later moved to its current facility in Van Nuys, California, in 1965. By 1999, the primary building doubled in size following the acquisition of an adjoining building, and in 2008, Pink sold the business to vintage race car collector, racer and businessman Tom Malloy.

In 2012, Pink was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, and just a few years later, he was inducted into the coveted SEMA Hall of Fame.

"There is a good reason Ed Pink is known as The Old Master: The man's command over automotive engineering is legendary and in a league of its own. Engines and high performance have been in his blood right from the start. He didn't have his first car 24 hours before he had the engine out and apart," wrote Tony Thacker, the former director of the NHRA Motorsports Museum.

"Pink learned a lot over the years doing what he loved. He achieved what he did because he listened and learned and applied what he learned. While he's won many awards and been inducted into numerous halls of fame, Pink said that his key was to keep focusing on the project in front of him," Thacker concluded.

SEMA sends its condolences to the Pink family. For more information on Pink's accomplished career, visit the SEMA Hall of Fame site here.
 

(Left image) Ed Pink, left, and Don Garlits, right, are both SEMA Hall of Fame inductees. (Right image) Ed Pink works on one of his legendary motors.

By SEMA News Editors

Editor's Note: This story was originally published on April 24, 2025. An update to this story can be found here. Tickets are on sale at semafest.com.

The one-of-a-kind festival will once again seamlessly blend motorsports, music and car culture for one unforgettable night on Friday, November 7.

Since 2011, SEMA has nurtured the relationship between the automotive industry and the enthusiast audience, evolving from the SEMA Show's SEMA Cruise to SEMA Ignited in 2014 and, in 2021, offering a public-facing ticket to the final day of the SEMA Show.

Then, in 2023, SEMA introduced SEMA Fest, the one-of-a-kind festival that seamlessly blends motorsports, music and car culture. 

SEMA is thrilled to announce that the third annual SEMA Fest will return on Friday, November 7, 2025. The event, held on the SEMA Show campus, will once again merge musical vibes with the automotive attractions of the SEMA Show, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience for car and music lovers alike.

In addition, SEMA is happy to announce that the "SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public" ticket will return in 2025. This special pass allows enthusiasts to walk the SEMA Show floor, fueling their passion for car culture and gaining access to the industry's newest accessories and innovations.

What to expect for the 2025 SEMA Fest and the SEMA Show Friday ticket:

• SEMA Fest's live music element returns to the SEMA Show campus in Las Vegas, further fusing the passion for car culture with the community's love for music.
• Enthusiasts can gain access to the SEMA Show exhibition halls and the opportunity to celebrate car culture with motorsports activations, thousands of show cars, and so much more with the SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public ticket on Friday, November 7, and then...
• Rock out with top musical acts at the SEMA Fest Concert Stage after the SEMA Show ends!

2025 SEMA Fest tickets will go on sale on Monday, April 28, on semafest.com. Want SEMA Fest updates straight to your inbox? Sign up on semafest.com. Note, qualifying industry insiders can make their SEMA Fest General Admission and VIP concert ticket purchases when registering for their SEMA Show badge on semashow.com. The official concert lineup will be announced at a later date. 

Questions? Contact info@semafest.com. Sponsorship and partnership questions? Contact partnership@semafest.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Planning for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas, will be in full swing starting Monday, April 28, when booth space selection begins and a full slate of tools, resources and programs goes live for SEMA Show exhibitors, including the launch of the SEMA Show Exhibitor Service Manual. (Still need a booth? Secure your spot on the 2025 SEMA Show floor, the best place to discover new domestic buyers and get your brand in front of influential members of the media. Learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor and register for a 2025 SEMA Show booth here). 

2025 SEMA Exhibitor Service Manual and More SEMA Show Resources

The Exhibitor Service Manual is a powerful tool for exhibitors developed to highlight resources and information that can help you have a successful SEMA Show. This helpful guide includes callouts of upcoming deadlines, forms for booth and freight services, marketing and sponsorship opportunities, vehicle displays and much more.

Additionally, Show organizers will also begin accepting entries and applications on April 28 for three programs that aid exhibitors in expanding their impact on the Show floor: the New Product Showcase, the Feature Vehicle Display program and the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program.

The New Product Showcase allows exhibitors to highlight their latest and greatest innovations at the top destination for media members, buyers and aftermarket professionals, providing a platform to build brand awareness, boost booth traffic and generate quality leads.

The Feature Vehicle Display program--open to all categories and applications--gives exhibitors a chance to add to their Show footprint beyond their booth space, and drive attention to your booth. Each vehicle accepted into the program will be featured in the SEMA Show app, showcasing its image, make, model, year, color, products used in the build, builder's name and booth number of the sponsoring exhibitor company.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program provides builders with a list of exhibitors interested in offering products for a SEMA Show floor vehicle build.

How to Prepare for 2025 SEMA Show Booth Plotting

Following are some best practices for exhibitors to consider as we approach the process that designates where exhibitors will be on the Show floor.

• If You Want Someone Else to Select for You

Fill out the proxy form at semashow.com/proxy.

If you, or your designee, are not available when called, the best available space will be selected for you by Show Management.

• Review the Online Floorplan Early

The 2025 SEMA Show floor plan will be available for viewing at SEMAShow.com/floorplan on Friday, April 25.

• Open the Online Floorplan Before the Call

The floorplan is updated approximately every 30 minutes during space selection process, so you must refresh your browser before your call time.

• When We Will Call You

You will receive an email with the date and time of your appointed selection call with a SEMA sales representative.

Note: you may be contacted up to 15 minutes prior and 30 minutes after the assigned timeframe. We will not call before 8:00 a.m. PDT.

You will be selecting at the same time as other companies, so it is imperative that you be ready to select your exhibit space at the time you are called. If possible, have all decision-makers on the call to review your options.

• Confirm Your Space

Check the online floor plan 30 minutes after you select your booth to ensure your company name is in the booth you selected. We will also send you a confirmation letter shortly after you choose your space. Please review the letter carefully to ensure you received the space agreed upon over the phone. We will include a pillar diagram if any pillars affect your booth.

• Plan Your SEMA Show

After your booth is secured on the floorplan, it's now time to plan for a successful SEMA Show. The sooner you plan, the better. SEMA News will cover the best tips and practices in the coming months, but note that the Exhibitor Summit, a free program from June 25-27 in Vegas, is the best way to get the most ROI. Exhibitors new and returning, can take advantage of SEMA value-added programs; use proven strategies to attract buyers to your booth; save money and resources on Show costs, such as material handling, electrical and related Show expenses; work one-on-one with Show experts to maximize your ROI; learn to properly plan and budget expenses and explore promotional opportunities through sponsorships and other methods. Hotel rooms will be provided for up to two guests in this valuable program; you can't afford to miss it!

Learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit and register for the program here.

Questions? Call 909-396-0289 or email sales@sema.org

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Opinion sections of newspapers nationwide are beginning to see an influx of articles from aftermarket leaders concerned about electric vehicle (EV) mandates. Over the last several weeks, op-eds and letters to the editor were published in the following newspapers: 

• The Baltimore Sun, by Del. Kevin Hornberger, chair of SEMA's State Auto Caucus [reprinted below]  
• Charleston (W.V.) Gazette-Mail, by SEMA Senior Vice President for Public and Government Affairs Karen Bailey-Chapman 
• The Post and Courier (S.C.), by Jacob Jarvis of The Eurowizards 
• The Frontiersman (Alaska), by Harry Cilk of Trail Toyz Off Road
• Homer News (Alaska), by Jay Meltzer of Cruz Unlimited

Additionally, The Wall Street Journal's editorial board weighed in on Maryland's move to distance itself from California's heavy-handed, costly policies that scrap all non-EV options for consumers: "[Maryland Gov. Wes Moore] is showing fellow Democrats an off-ramp from their EV blunder. How many more will take it?" 

SEMA can help you submit a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. To get started, contact us at SEMAHQ@SEMAHQ.org.  

***

"The Free State"? Not Until Maryland Exits California's Road to EV Mandates

[This op-ed was originally published in The Baltimore Sun.]  

Voters nationwide have made their voices heard loud and clear--the time for government mandates around how Americans spend their time and live their lives is over. For countless Americans and Marylanders, that includes choosing a car that fits their needs, not California's. That means no more EV mandates in the Free State. 

Maryland made a grave mistake when it chose to follow California's footsteps and tether our emission goals with those set by California's Advanced Clean Cars II regulations--a strict and unattainable EV mandate that bans all internal combustion engine vehicles. The unrealistic standards of this decision put our State--one with very different needs and realities from California--on a trajectory that we can't maintain and one that voters don't want. 

Gov. Moore's executive order delaying this mandate is an acknowledgement of this mistake, but it does not rectify it. As a state, we must go further. We need to completely decouple from California's standards once and for all; it is simply not feasible without creating a major disruption in the consumer automotive market. This would disproportionally impact citizens on fixed income, and those that rely on their vehicles to commute to and from work. 

There will be loud voices that decry this option as bad for the environment. But any opponent who views this commonsense decision purely through an environmental lens is missing a huge piece of the picture. This isn't just a conversation about emissions – this is a conversation about vehicle choice, consumers, small businesses, and employees who have been and will continue to be hurt if we don't take action. It's about what's possible if the automotive aftermarket industry is freed to develop non-EV solutions to reducing carbon emissions. 

Because prominent among the small businesses hurt by Maryland tethering itself to California is our state's thriving specialty automotive aftermarket. This is an industry that generates $3.24 billion in economic impact in our State alone. That translates to supporting 14,946 jobs, $1.19 billion in total wages and benefits, and $530.24 million in taxes paid. This industry, one that many people have never even thought of, touches every community across our State. It is made up of the local businesses that employ your neighbors and residents working on their cars over the weekend. It is a quintessential local economy, but it is all at risk if we continue to push an EV mandate that will make it obsolete. 

It's also among our most innovative industries, positioned to unleash breakthroughs in cleaner-burning internal combustion engines, hybrids, hydrogen, synthetic fuels, and biodiesel. None of this happens unless the handcuffs of EV mandates are removed. 

The requirements laid out by California's Advanced Clean Cars II call for a seismic shift in the automotive industry. Small businesses that employ Marylanders in good-paying, blue-collar jobs will be forced to close. 

Beyond the profound business implications, average Maryland residents will be stuck paying much higher costs for a new vehicle, all at a time when taxes and the cost of living are already squeezing families. It is too much to ask of our voters. 

As a delegate, it is my responsibility to support legislative and policy solutions that benefit Maryland now, prepare us for the future, and respect the will of the voters. Maryland's decision to tie ourselves to the Advanced Clean Car II regulations accomplishes none of these goals--in fact, it hinders them. 

But we can fix our mistake. We can respect the will of the voters who made it clear that they are turning against EV mandates. We can recognize once and for all that tying our future to the political will of California is not the right or the smart path for Maryland. And we can acknowledge that it is not our place as a government to tell people what cars they can and cannot drive. 

My colleague, Del. Dana Stein, a Democrat, introduced legislation to delay Maryland's implementation of these unrealistic measures. That was a step in the right direction. Gov. Moore's executive order is another. However, these are just steps and ultimately merely kick the can down the road. We need a clean break. A complete decoupling from California's Advanced Clean Cars II standards is the right thing to do for our economy, our voters and our future. I urge the governor and my fellow lawmakers to finally take real action. 

Del. Kevin Hornberger represents District 35B and the residents of Cecil County. 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock