By SEMA News Editors

A new bill in California has been introduced in an effort to ease restrictions for classic car owners in the state. Senate Bill 712, if passed, would exempt vehicles 35 years or older from smog checks if they are insured as collector cars. The bill was introduced by Senator Shannon Grove last week. 

Voice your support for "Jay Leno's Law" and help protect jobs, heritage and small businesses.

Tell legislators to pass the bill now (it only takes a minute)!

"California has a rich automotive heritage, with some of the first classic cars rolling off assembly lines right here in our state," said Senator Shannon Grove. "These rolling pieces of history are more than just vehicles—they have strong cultural ties in our communities and supply thousands of jobs in the aftermarket parts industry. Senate Bill 712 will update the current law to include all classic cars that are 35 years or older, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy their hobby without burdensome restrictions that are driving some collectors and industry businesses out of the state."

Jay Leno, a lifelong collector and advocate for automotive culture, is backing the bill, which many are affectionately calling "Jay Leno's Law."

"California's rich classic car culture, sparked by the post-war hot-rod boom and boosted by Hollywood's love for chrome and horsepower, has made it a paradise for enthusiasts like me. From the start, California has been a driving force in shaping car culture, with deep ties to classic cars and a global reputation as a hub for these timeless machines," said Leno. "California's smog check laws for classic cars need to be updated—they vary too much from state to state, and California's rules don't match up with neighboring ones. Our classic cars are only driven for special occasions, weekend drives and car shows. I am excited to work with Senator Grove on SB 712 to make it simpler for us to preserve these pieces of history."

The legislation addresses smog check requirements that often hinder classic car owners. California's automotive legacy dates back over a century, with early manufacturers like Studebaker and Pontiac setting up shop in the state. Today, the aftermarket parts industry for these vehicles generates billions annually, supporting jobs and small businesses. SB 712 aims to safeguard this economic engine while honoring the state's pioneering role in car culture.

"SEMA is proud to support SB 712. Senator Grove's bill provides a practical solution for collector vehicle owners, allowing them to enjoy their passion without the burden of unnecessary regulations," said Mike Spagnola, President and CEO of SEMA. "These vehicles are rarely driven, meticulously maintained, and represent only a fraction of the cars on the road. By exempting collector vehicles from smog checks, we can ensure that these historical treasures are preserved for future generations."

Representing the $52 billion specialty automotive aftermarket industry, SEMA is a trade association based in Diamond Bar, California, made up of approximately 7,000 small businesses nationwide, including 1,066 in California, that manufacture, market, and sell specialty automotive aftermarket products, including restoration, appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for motor vehicles.

California has a thriving specialty automotive aftermarket industry. This industry significantly contributes to the state's economy, generating $40.44 billion in economic impact. This translates to supporting 149,325 jobs, $13.47 billion in total wages and benefits, and $6.16 billion in taxes paid.

"From car shows to weekend cruises, classic cars bring people together and keep our history vibrant," added Senator Grove. "With Jay Leno's support, we're sending a clear message: California values its automotive roots and the communities that keep them running."

The bill is expected to move through the legislative process in the coming months, with strong backing from car clubs, industry leaders, and enthusiasts statewide. The first bill hearing will be in the Senate Transportation Committee in April. 

Voice your support for "Jay Leno's Law" and help protect jobs, heritage and small businesses.

Tell legislators to pass the bill now (it only takes a minute)!

By SEMA News Editors

President Donald Trump has agreed to exempt goods and services that comply with the 2020 U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)from the previously announced 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico for one month. Following a call with top executives from General Motors, Ford and Stellantis, the administration first agreed to exempt auto imports that complied with USMCA from the tariffs imposed on March 4 before expanding the exemption to USMCA compliant products from Mexico and Canada. Click here for the White House fact sheet on tariff adjustments to minimize disruptions to the U.S. automotive industry.

"We are going to give a one-month exemption on any autos coming through USMCA... so they are not at a disadvantage," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters. "Reciprocal tariffs will still go into effect on April 2."

More positive news for the automotive aftermarket: U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick previewed the exemption covering all USMCA-compliant goods and services.

"If you lived under Donald Trump's USMCA agreement, you will get a reprieve from these tariffs now. If you chose to go outside of that, you did so at your own risk, and today is when that reckoning comes," he told CNBC.

SEMA, in its recent "SEMA 2025 Future Trends Report" market research study, noted that tariffs have the potential to increase costs for OEMs, part manufacturers and consumers. The report notes that:

• Most of the tariff exposure is likely to small- and mid-sized parts manufacturers, particularly those who rely on international supply chains for some of their components and materials.
• Tariffs disproportionately impact businesses that pay upfront for goods and services, with small- and medium-sized companies potentially experiencing cash-flow issues, delayed payments, and reduced capacity and inventory.
• Competition to secure supplies of domestic steel, and thus lower costs, may be intense.

Read more about the SEMA 2025 Future Trends Report here. Questions? Contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

President Donald Trump has agreed to exempt goods and services that comply with the 2020 U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)from the previously announced 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico for one month. Following a call with top executives from General Motors, Ford and Stellantis, the administration first agreed to exempt auto imports that complied with USMCA from the tariffs imposed on March 4 before expanding the exemption to USMCA compliant products from Mexico and Canada. Click here for the White House fact sheet on tariff adjustments to minimize disruptions to the U.S. automotive industry.

"We are going to give a one-month exemption on any autos coming through USMCA... so they are not at a disadvantage," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters. "Reciprocal tariffs will still go into effect on April 2."

More positive news for the automotive aftermarket: U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick previewed the exemption covering all USMCA-compliant goods and services.

"If you lived under Donald Trump's USMCA agreement, you will get a reprieve from these tariffs now. If you chose to go outside of that, you did so at your own risk, and today is when that reckoning comes," he told CNBC.

SEMA, in its recent "SEMA 2025 Future Trends Report" market research study, noted that tariffs have the potential to increase costs for OEMs, part manufacturers and consumers. The report notes that:

• Most of the tariff exposure is likely to small- and mid-sized parts manufacturers, particularly those who rely on international supply chains for some of their components and materials.
• Tariffs disproportionately impact businesses that pay upfront for goods and services, with small- and medium-sized companies potentially experiencing cash-flow issues, delayed payments, and reduced capacity and inventory.
• Competition to secure supplies of domestic steel, and thus lower costs, may be intense.

Read more about the SEMA 2025 Future Trends Report here. Questions? Contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

• At a Glance: SEMA and PRI continue to fight to stop unfair automotive technology mandates, most recently flying into Washington, D.C., to spread the word to lawmakers. Industry members are encouraged to join the cause.
• Get involved: To join the fight, visit SEMACRA.org to send a letter to your lawmaker.
• Use our tools: Amplify our messages with our toolkit, featuring social media assets you can deploy on your channels. 
   

SEMA Hits The Hill, Throws a Haymaker in Fight to Stop ICE Ban

Working on a tight deadline to stop California's internal combustion engine (ICE) ban, SEMA and PRI mustered a crack team of advocates to urge lawmakers to prevent California from enacting laws and mandates for the entire country. Congress is in the midst of a Congressional Review Act (CRA)-enabled examination of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Air Act waiver to California for the state's Advanced Clean Cars II regulation.

To amplify the message of technology-neutral government and vehicle choice, a team of 31 advocates, comprised of SEMA members and automotive content creators, descended on Capitol Hill for meetings with lawmakers and their staff members. Over the course of seven hours, members impressed upon Congress why California's ICE ban should be struck down, furthering our position on this critical matter. SEMA and PRI have published a new toolkit of posters and social media assets to help spread the word on the fight to stop the ICE ban. (Find more on those resources at sema.org/advocacy/cra and below).

Background on the Congressional Review Act

SEMA and PRI's efforts to overturn EV mandates enacted by California are at a significant moment. Federal lawmakers will use the CRA to determine the legitimacy of Clean Air Act waivers for California's Advanced Clean Cars II policy, which would effectively ban ICE and related technology and innovations. SEMA and PRI oppose these waivers and support their immediate repeal by Congress.

These proposed mandates will create a seismic shift in the automotive industry that will hurt small businesses that employ American workers with technical skills and create the often politically celebrated blue-collar jobs. The specialty automotive aftermarket has led to technological innovation, making vehicles more fuel-efficient, safer and appealing to consumers.

In addition, large automakers are losing billions a year in their electric-vehicle (EV) programs despite the massive financial infusion of taxpayer dollars they receive from the government and subsidies to purchase EVs.

Join the cause to end EV mandates and support automotive businesses by visiting semacra.org and sending a letter to your lawmakers. Be sure also to access the ready-to-print and ready-to-post assets available to industry members below.
 

SEMA and PRI Offer 'Stop the ICE Ban' Toolkit of Assets; Join the Cause

SEMA and PRI's CRA Social Media Toolkit is designed to help industry members share their opposition to EV mandates across their digital channels and in their shops or businesses. This comprehensive toolkit provides a variety of ready-to-use assets, including printable posters, social graphics, carousel assets and sample post copy, making it easy to share key messaging with your customers and industry peers. 

Join the cause, let industry members know where you stand, and access the CRA Social Media Toolkit at sema.org/advocacy/cra.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

• At a Glance: SEMA and PRI continue to fight to stop unfair automotive technology mandates, most recently flying into Washington, D.C., to spread the word to lawmakers. Industry members are encouraged to join the cause.
• Get involved: To join the fight, visit SEMACRA.org to send a letter to your lawmaker.
• Use our tools: Amplify our messages with our toolkit, featuring social media assets you can deploy on your channels. 
   

SEMA Hits The Hill, Throws a Haymaker in Fight to Stop ICE Ban

Working on a tight deadline to stop California's internal combustion engine (ICE) ban, SEMA and PRI mustered a crack team of advocates to urge lawmakers to prevent California from enacting laws and mandates for the entire country. Congress is in the midst of a Congressional Review Act (CRA)-enabled examination of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Air Act waiver to California for the state's Advanced Clean Cars II regulation.

To amplify the message of technology-neutral government and vehicle choice, a team of 31 advocates, comprised of SEMA members and automotive content creators, descended on Capitol Hill for meetings with lawmakers and their staff members. Over the course of seven hours, members impressed upon Congress why California's ICE ban should be struck down, furthering our position on this critical matter. SEMA and PRI have published a new toolkit of posters and social media assets to help spread the word on the fight to stop the ICE ban. (Find more on those resources at sema.org/advocacy/cra and below).

Background on the Congressional Review Act

SEMA and PRI's efforts to overturn EV mandates enacted by California are at a significant moment. Federal lawmakers will use the CRA to determine the legitimacy of Clean Air Act waivers for California's Advanced Clean Cars II policy, which would effectively ban ICE and related technology and innovations. SEMA and PRI oppose these waivers and support their immediate repeal by Congress.

These proposed mandates will create a seismic shift in the automotive industry that will hurt small businesses that employ American workers with technical skills and create the often politically celebrated blue-collar jobs. The specialty automotive aftermarket has led to technological innovation, making vehicles more fuel-efficient, safer and appealing to consumers.

In addition, large automakers are losing billions a year in their electric-vehicle (EV) programs despite the massive financial infusion of taxpayer dollars they receive from the government and subsidies to purchase EVs.

Join the cause to end EV mandates and support automotive businesses by visiting semacra.org and sending a letter to your lawmakers. Be sure also to access the ready-to-print and ready-to-post assets available to industry members below.
 

SEMA and PRI Offer 'Stop the ICE Ban' Toolkit of Assets; Join the Cause

SEMA and PRI's CRA Social Media Toolkit is designed to help industry members share their opposition to EV mandates across their digital channels and in their shops or businesses. This comprehensive toolkit provides a variety of ready-to-use assets, including printable posters, social graphics, carousel assets and sample post copy, making it easy to share key messaging with your customers and industry peers. 

Join the cause, let industry members know where you stand, and access the CRA Social Media Toolkit at sema.org/advocacy/cra.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

A SEMA- and PRI-opposed bill in Arkansas that threatened to impose severe restrictions on local race tracks, has been withdrawn by its author.

This marks a significant victory for SEMA, PRI and the community of grassroots racing enthusiasts in Arkansas. To generate opposition to the bill, SEMA and PRI issued an urgent legislative alert to Arkansas motorsports businesses, race tracks and fans regarding House Bill (HB) 1564, which generated more than 7,000 letters to lawmakers. Additionally, SEMA and PRI worked with automotive celebrity Alex Taylor, an Arkansas native, on an Instagram reel promoting the letter-writing campaign, which garnered more than 400,000 views.

Arkansas lawmakers were considering HB 1564, which proposed onerous restrictions for race tracks, including new insurance requirements, limitations on noise levels, hours of operation and types of events that could be held. The bill, introduced by State Representative Wayne Long (R) and Senator Ronald Caldwell (R), sparked significant debate among legislators, community members and racing enthusiasts.

In a letter to the Arkansas lawmakers, Christian Robinson, SEMA and PRI's senior director of state government affairs, highlighted that the proposed restrictions could have led to job losses and reduced economic activity in the regions where race tracks are located.

"We believe that this legislation creates unnecessary regulatory burdens that could stifle motorsports events and related businesses, risks job losses and revenue declines in communities that rely on motorsports tourism and events [and] sets a concerning precedent for government overreach into private business operations without clear justification," stated Robinson. The specialty-equipment industry contributes more than $3.42 billion in economic impact and supports nearly 15,000 jobs.

"HB 1564 threatened to undermine the positive impacts of motorsports on Arkansas's economy and community," said Robinson. "We are pleased that the bill has been pulled and urge lawmakers to work collaboratively with stakeholders to develop policies that support both motorsports and local communities."

The decision to pull HB 1564 before the committee hearing is a significant win for the entire industry. The swift mobilization and the overwhelming response from the racing community played a crucial role in this outcome.

SEMA and PRI remain committed to protecting the racing community's interests and will continue to advocate for policies that support the industry and local economies. This victory demonstrates the power of collective action and the importance of standing up for the motorsports community.

For more information, contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

A SEMA- and PRI-opposed bill in Arkansas that threatened to impose severe restrictions on local race tracks, has been withdrawn by its author.

This marks a significant victory for SEMA, PRI and the community of grassroots racing enthusiasts in Arkansas. To generate opposition to the bill, SEMA and PRI issued an urgent legislative alert to Arkansas motorsports businesses, race tracks and fans regarding House Bill (HB) 1564, which generated more than 7,000 letters to lawmakers. Additionally, SEMA and PRI worked with automotive celebrity Alex Taylor, an Arkansas native, on an Instagram reel promoting the letter-writing campaign, which garnered more than 400,000 views.

Arkansas lawmakers were considering HB 1564, which proposed onerous restrictions for race tracks, including new insurance requirements, limitations on noise levels, hours of operation and types of events that could be held. The bill, introduced by State Representative Wayne Long (R) and Senator Ronald Caldwell (R), sparked significant debate among legislators, community members and racing enthusiasts.

In a letter to the Arkansas lawmakers, Christian Robinson, SEMA and PRI's senior director of state government affairs, highlighted that the proposed restrictions could have led to job losses and reduced economic activity in the regions where race tracks are located.

"We believe that this legislation creates unnecessary regulatory burdens that could stifle motorsports events and related businesses, risks job losses and revenue declines in communities that rely on motorsports tourism and events [and] sets a concerning precedent for government overreach into private business operations without clear justification," stated Robinson. The specialty-equipment industry contributes more than $3.42 billion in economic impact and supports nearly 15,000 jobs.

"HB 1564 threatened to undermine the positive impacts of motorsports on Arkansas's economy and community," said Robinson. "We are pleased that the bill has been pulled and urge lawmakers to work collaboratively with stakeholders to develop policies that support both motorsports and local communities."

The decision to pull HB 1564 before the committee hearing is a significant win for the entire industry. The swift mobilization and the overwhelming response from the racing community played a crucial role in this outcome.

SEMA and PRI remain committed to protecting the racing community's interests and will continue to advocate for policies that support the industry and local economies. This victory demonstrates the power of collective action and the importance of standing up for the motorsports community.

For more information, contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

Aspiring leaders in the automotive aftermarket industry have limited time left to apply for the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) Professional Development Program (PDP), taking place at the SEMA Garage in Detroit, Michigan, May 7-9. Focusing on team leadership development, the program will equip participants with the tools needed to motivate their teams and advance in their careers. Limited spots are still available. Apply by March 23 at this link.  

For three days, students will acquire Dale Carnegie's relationship-centered approach to leadership development. Through interactive lessons and breakouts, attendees will gain a comprehensive toolkit to become the type of leader required in today's workforce, as well as develop the attitudes required to be an engaging leader. 

FLN members who apply will receive a discounted rate off the standard Dale Carnegie fee. However, any individual under 40 who works for a SEMA member company can join FLN for free.  

After completing this program, participants will be able to: 

• Build effective teams
• Create a people-first culture
• Lead change
• Use the innovative process to improve results
• Commit to growth and transformation 
• Create a performance results description  

For years, Dale Carnegie's books and seminars have been the go-to resources for individuals and organizations seeking personal and professional growth. The methods learned in the program will help FLN members expand their skills to drive results in their careers and companies.  

The price of attending the program is $1,280, which includes the training program, a certificate of completion, four-nights hotel accommodations, and food and beverage during training. 

Don't miss out! View the application and apply here. 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Mercedes-AMG Developing 1,000-Plus-hp SUV

SEMA News sources recently snapped the first new images of Mercedes-AMG's new, 1,000-hp SUV currently in development.

The second model to be built on AMG's EA platform, the new SUV will be purely electric and produce more than 1,000 hp, sources said. The super SUV is expected to compete against the BMW XM and the Lotus Eletre, Lamborghini Urus and Ferrari Purosangue.

Mercedes-AMG is expected to present the new EA platform at the end of 2025 and launch in 2026 with not only its own cell chemistry, but new engines. The axial flux motor is compact yet still delivers high performance. A single axial flux motor delivers 486 hp and weighs just 52 lbs.

On the EA platform, one motor is installed on the front axle and one on the rear axle. The system output of the AMG.EA models is around 972 hp.

Additionally, a version of the still-unnamed SUV is expected to have two engines on the rear axle and one engine at the front, pushing output well beyond 1400 hp, according to insiders.

Volkswagen Taigo to Get Facelift in European Markets

If its recent update to the South America-focused Nivus is any indication, Volkswagen is expected to give the Taigo a facelift for the European market. In fact, SEMA News sources recently spotted a prototype of the refreshed Taigo in the north of Scandinavia.

The VW Taigo and Nivus, both of which are based on the MQB-A0 platform, differ in terms of powertrains. While the European version is available with either a 1.0L three-cylinder or 1.5L four-cylinder engine, the South American model is limited to the small engine. When fueled with ethanol, this delivers up to 116 hp, which is surpassed in European markets by the four-cylinder and up to 150 hp.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Spotted Without Camouflage

A pioneer of electric mobility in Germany, Mercedes-Benz has long begun testing its second-generation, all-electric midsize SUV. But two things have changed since SEMA News sources last caught the car undergoing testing in August 2023: the car will no longer be called the "EQC" as Mercedes-Benz drops the "EQ" moniker for its electric vehicles (EV), and the lack of camouflage.

Although there is still some camo over the front fascia and rear lamps, the overall shape of the SUV is revealed in the new images. Expected to arrive in late 2025, the GLC will likely compete with similarly sized models from Audi, BMW, Jaguar and Tesla.

The new GLC EV will be based on the all-new, all-electric C-Class EV sedan, which is scheduled for a 2025 or 2026 launch, and was once thought to replace today's gas- and diesel-powered C-Class. Nonetheless, the GLC will come with conventional gas engines, too.

Under the sleek body is the new MB.EA architecture for medium-sized and large vehicles. Contrary to what was originally planned, the drive technology presented in the EQXX is not only finding its way into the smaller vehicles but also into the MB.EA series.

This means it will likely feature 800-V technology, a modern, efficiency-enhancing silicon-carbide inverter, radial flux motors with an expected 250 to 500 hp, rear- or all-wheel drive, all-wheel steering and a two-speed gearbox to enhance economy even further. On the battery side, Mercedes will significantly increase the current energy density with a 110-kWh battery. Around 100 kWh are also conceivable in the C-Class EV saloon and this GLC EV, which ideally would be enough for almost 621 miles.

By SEMA News Editors

While previously only available in print to SEMA business members, SEMA magazine is now available to everyone in a digital format, including the latest issue filled with valuable insights on current industry trends, profiles on aftermarket figures and much more.

This special March/April Business Issue features the 2025 SEMA Product Guide, an in-depth sit-down with SEMA Person of the Year Colby McLaughlin, a look at Blazin' Rodz cutting edge '70 Chevelle Restomod, a peek inside the PRI Show floor's speed parts and manufacturing tricks, the "SEMA Future Trends Report" and much more. 

As a reminder, SEMA magazine is now available to everyone--at no cost--online by claiming your complimentary subscription. Haven’t claimed yours yet? Here’s how:

• Claim your coupon voucher HERE
• Fill in the mandatory fields and questions regarding your automotive interests
• Subscribe
• Download the SEMA magazine app
• Sign in to access a year's worth of valuable industry knowledge
• Start reading!

For step-by-step instructions on how to claim your free SEMA magazine subscription, click HERE.