By SEMA News Editors 

SEMA has unveiled an evolved mission statement to set the association's direction as it aims for a greater leadership position in the industry: SEMA's mission is to foster the success of the automotive aftermarket. 

The previous mission statement was adopted by the Board of Directors in 1992, and it's served the association and the automotive aftermarket industry well for 33 years. But as an industry that's built on innovation and change, the time had come to evolve this guiding principle to reflect the challenges and opportunities the aftermarket faces and how SEMA can help address them. 

"The threats to our industry have never been greater, and our mission statement focuses all of our resources on those threats," said SEMA Board Chairman Kyle Fickler. 

The first thing that stands out about the revised statement is the reference to the industry. While the previous mission statement singled out SEMA members and businesses, the updated version calls on SEMA to foster success for the automotive aftermarket.  

But that doesn't mean the association is shifting focus from its members. The updated mission statement broadens the focus to supporting members by asserting itself as an industry leader. By unifying, growing and protecting the industry as a whole, SEMA's members will prosper.  

Expanding this industry leadership role allows SEMA to be a coalition builder, uniquely capable of uniting other associations and automotive interest groups while serving as the source of truth for everyone in the industry--a rising tide that lifts all ships.  

"The new mission statement does a great job of summing up SEMA's focus. Our goal is to foster the success of the aftermarket, and that encompasses a lot," said SEMA Board Chair-Elect Melanie White. "This mission reflects our dedication to ensuring that our members have the confidence and tools they need to thrive in a dynamic market."  

Last December, after the conclusion of the SEMA and PRI Shows, Motor1 published an article with the headline, "SEMA is Becoming the Center of the Automotive Universe." That's a bold statement--and represents an exciting opportunity. It illustrates how the industry is starting to view SEMA, and how we are perfectly positioned to take on a greater leadership position. 

By SEMA News Editors

Housing reservations are now open for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, and not only can you save on nightly rates by booking through onPeak, the SEMA Show's official housing provider, you can take advantage of reduced resort fees, too.

You won't find these deals anywhere else. See below for the list of hotels offering discounted nightly resort fees during your SEMA Show trip:

Note: Rates listed on the onPeak website include the resort fee. Click into each hotel to view resort fee inclusions. 

SEMA and onPeak have negotiated the best possible rates, giving Showgoers cost-saving benefits alongside a myriad of other perks, like fully flexible booking, possible hotel rewards points and group reservations at the best hotels in Las Vegas. SEMA Showgoers can only get the discounted rates when booking through the only official hotel provider, onPeak, here. 

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2025 SEMA Show. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Clearing its first hurdle, California Senate Bill (SB) 712, commonly known as "Leno's Law," has successfully passed the Senate Transportation Committee with a final vote of 12-2. The bill, which aims to exempt classic vehicles from smog check requirements, garnered strong bipartisan support.
 

Protecting California's Automotive Heritage

Authored by Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) and backed by renowned comedian and car enthusiast Jay Leno, SB 712 seeks to preserve California's rich automotive history. The bill exempts vehicles 35 years or older from the state's stringent smog check requirements, ensuring that these iconic cars remain on the road and remain a part of California's cultural identity.

"These classic cars aren't just hobby vehicles—they represent generations of craftsmanship, culture, and community pride," said Senator Grove. "With this bill, we're protecting small businesses, empowering car enthusiasts, and preserving a vital piece of California's heritage."

Access to Car Culture for the Next Generation

Supporters of the bill emphasize that classic cars, which are typically driven only on special occasions, have a minimal environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles. SEMA estimates that these vehicles represent less than 1% of California's registered vehicles.

"California helped invent car culture—from lowriders in East L.A. to muscle cars in the Central Valley. These cars tell the story," said Jay Leno. "SB 712 is about keeping that story alive. These vehicles are driven occasionally, not daily, and it just makes sense to treat them differently."

"That's what SB 712 is really about. It's about preserving access to automotive culture, especially for the next generation," added Mike Spagnola, president and CEO of SEMA, in his testimony alongside Jay Leno in the Senate committee hearing. "SB 712 ensures that future generations still have a way into car culture—without unnecessary barriers. This bill gives people a way in—to create, to connect, to belong."

Economic and Cultural Benefits

The passage of SB 712 is expected to have positive economic and cultural impacts. California's specialty automotive aftermarket industry supports more than 149,000 jobs and contributes $40.44 billion to the state's economy.

The bill aims to keep these jobs and businesses thriving by reducing regulatory burdens on classic car owners.

"This bill ensures California remains a welcoming home for car culture—whether you're restoring a '76 Trans Am, cruising in a lowrider, or just visiting your local classic car show," added Grove. "We're embracing the history, innovation, and pride of these collector cars."
 

Classic Car Rally at State Capitol

Before the hearing, Sen. Grove led a vibrant car cruise and press conference at the California State Capitol. The event featured a parade of classic cars, including Leno's own Pontiac Firebird, which he drove with Senator Grove riding shotgun. The press conference drew dozens of classic car enthusiasts who displayed their vehicles in front of the Capitol building. Leno emphasized the cultural and historical significance of classic cars, while Grove highlighted the bill's potential to preserve California's automotive heritage. "When I was younger, my dream car was a '70 Datsun 240Z. That car still means the world to me. But today's young collectors have their own icons. They're restoring the cars from the '80s and '90s that they grew up seeing in movies, games, and driveways—cars they have a personal connection to, just like I did with mine," stated Spagnola in his remarks. "They represent a new generation of cultural touchpoints and shared enthusiasm—and they deserve to be welcomed into the tradition, not left behind by outdated rules."

With the Senate Transportation Committee's approval, SB 712 will now move on to the Senate Appropriations Committee, where it will be considered on Monday, April 28.

For more information on how to support SB 712 and to stay updated on its progress, voice your support here or contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org.  

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Clearing its first hurdle, California Senate Bill (SB) 712, commonly known as "Leno's Law," has successfully passed the Senate Transportation Committee with a final vote of 12-2. The bill, which aims to exempt classic vehicles from smog check requirements, garnered strong bipartisan support.
 

Protecting California's Automotive Heritage

Authored by Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) and backed by renowned comedian and car enthusiast Jay Leno, SB 712 seeks to preserve California's rich automotive history. The bill exempts vehicles 35 years or older from the state's stringent smog check requirements, ensuring that these iconic cars remain on the road and remain a part of California's cultural identity.

"These classic cars aren't just hobby vehicles—they represent generations of craftsmanship, culture, and community pride," said Senator Grove. "With this bill, we're protecting small businesses, empowering car enthusiasts, and preserving a vital piece of California's heritage."

Access to Car Culture for the Next Generation

Supporters of the bill emphasize that classic cars, which are typically driven only on special occasions, have a minimal environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles. SEMA estimates that these vehicles represent less than 1% of California's registered vehicles.

"California helped invent car culture—from lowriders in East L.A. to muscle cars in the Central Valley. These cars tell the story," said Jay Leno. "SB 712 is about keeping that story alive. These vehicles are driven occasionally, not daily, and it just makes sense to treat them differently."

"That's what SB 712 is really about. It's about preserving access to automotive culture, especially for the next generation," added Mike Spagnola, president and CEO of SEMA, in his testimony alongside Jay Leno in the Senate committee hearing. "SB 712 ensures that future generations still have a way into car culture—without unnecessary barriers. This bill gives people a way in—to create, to connect, to belong."

Economic and Cultural Benefits

The passage of SB 712 is expected to have positive economic and cultural impacts. California's specialty automotive aftermarket industry supports more than 149,000 jobs and contributes $40.44 billion to the state's economy.

The bill aims to keep these jobs and businesses thriving by reducing regulatory burdens on classic car owners.

"This bill ensures California remains a welcoming home for car culture—whether you're restoring a '76 Trans Am, cruising in a lowrider, or just visiting your local classic car show," added Grove. "We're embracing the history, innovation, and pride of these collector cars."
 

Classic Car Rally at State Capitol

Before the hearing, Sen. Grove led a vibrant car cruise and press conference at the California State Capitol. The event featured a parade of classic cars, including Leno's own Pontiac Firebird, which he drove with Senator Grove riding shotgun. The press conference drew dozens of classic car enthusiasts who displayed their vehicles in front of the Capitol building. Leno emphasized the cultural and historical significance of classic cars, while Grove highlighted the bill's potential to preserve California's automotive heritage. "When I was younger, my dream car was a '70 Datsun 240Z. That car still means the world to me. But today's young collectors have their own icons. They're restoring the cars from the '80s and '90s that they grew up seeing in movies, games, and driveways—cars they have a personal connection to, just like I did with mine," stated Spagnola in his remarks. "They represent a new generation of cultural touchpoints and shared enthusiasm—and they deserve to be welcomed into the tradition, not left behind by outdated rules."

With the Senate Transportation Committee's approval, SB 712 will now move on to the Senate Appropriations Committee, where it will be considered on Monday, April 28.

For more information on how to support SB 712 and to stay updated on its progress, voice your support here or contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org.  

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Clearing its first hurdle, California Senate Bill (SB) 712, commonly known as "Leno's Law," has successfully passed the Senate Transportation Committee with a final vote of 12-2. The bill, which aims to exempt classic vehicles from smog check requirements, garnered strong bipartisan support.
 

Protecting California's Automotive Heritage

Authored by Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) and backed by renowned comedian and car enthusiast Jay Leno, SB 712 seeks to preserve California's rich automotive history. The bill exempts vehicles 35 years or older from the state's stringent smog check requirements, ensuring that these iconic cars remain on the road and remain a part of California's cultural identity.

"These classic cars aren't just hobby vehicles—they represent generations of craftsmanship, culture, and community pride," said Senator Grove. "With this bill, we're protecting small businesses, empowering car enthusiasts, and preserving a vital piece of California's heritage."

Access to Car Culture for the Next Generation

Supporters of the bill emphasize that classic cars, which are typically driven only on special occasions, have a minimal environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles. SEMA estimates that these vehicles represent less than 1% of California's registered vehicles.

"California helped invent car culture—from lowriders in East L.A. to muscle cars in the Central Valley. These cars tell the story," said Jay Leno. "SB 712 is about keeping that story alive. These vehicles are driven occasionally, not daily, and it just makes sense to treat them differently."

"That's what SB 712 is really about. It's about preserving access to automotive culture, especially for the next generation," added Mike Spagnola, president and CEO of SEMA, in his testimony alongside Jay Leno in the Senate committee hearing. "SB 712 ensures that future generations still have a way into car culture—without unnecessary barriers. This bill gives people a way in—to create, to connect, to belong."

Economic and Cultural Benefits

The passage of SB 712 is expected to have positive economic and cultural impacts. California's specialty automotive aftermarket industry supports more than 149,000 jobs and contributes $40.44 billion to the state's economy.

The bill aims to keep these jobs and businesses thriving by reducing regulatory burdens on classic car owners.

"This bill ensures California remains a welcoming home for car culture—whether you're restoring a '76 Trans Am, cruising in a lowrider, or just visiting your local classic car show," added Grove. "We're embracing the history, innovation, and pride of these collector cars."
 

Classic Car Rally at State Capitol

Before the hearing, Sen. Grove led a vibrant car cruise and press conference at the California State Capitol. The event featured a parade of classic cars, including Leno's own Pontiac Firebird, which he drove with Senator Grove riding shotgun. The press conference drew dozens of classic car enthusiasts who displayed their vehicles in front of the Capitol building. Leno emphasized the cultural and historical significance of classic cars, while Grove highlighted the bill's potential to preserve California's automotive heritage. "When I was younger, my dream car was a '70 Datsun 240Z. That car still means the world to me. But today's young collectors have their own icons. They're restoring the cars from the '80s and '90s that they grew up seeing in movies, games, and driveways—cars they have a personal connection to, just like I did with mine," stated Spagnola in his remarks. "They represent a new generation of cultural touchpoints and shared enthusiasm—and they deserve to be welcomed into the tradition, not left behind by outdated rules."

With the Senate Transportation Committee's approval, SB 712 will now move on to the Senate Appropriations Committee, where it will be considered on Monday, April 28.

For more information on how to support SB 712 and to stay updated on its progress, voice your support here or contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org.  

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a significant win for the racing community, Oregon House Bill (HB) 2738, which aimed to ban the use of leaded fuel at Portland International Raceway (PIR), and thus shut down the race track, is dead. The bill missed a critical legislative deadline and will not advance this year.

The bill was problematic from the start, relying on junk science advanced by neighborhood activists seeking to eliminate a local institution. In the end, the grassroots and lobbying efforts of PRI and SEMA generated a groundswell of opposition from motorsports enthusiasts and state lawmakers. These efforts are what delivered this significant victory at a time when race tracks nationwide are at risk of shutting down.

If enacted, HB 2738 would have significantly impacted the historic 63-year-old facility that has hosted an impressive cadre of champion drivers, including Mario and Michael Andretti, Emerson Fittipaldi and Álex Palou. Major racing events at PIR, such as those by INDYCAR and NASCAR, generate more than $32 million annually for Portland's economy.

The racing industry rallied against the bill, with organizations like PRI and SEMA highlighting the minimal environmental impact of leaded fuel emissions at the track and that many racers were already transitioning to alternative fuels.

How It Happened

The bill to shut down PIR was introduced at the start of Oregon's legislative session, and the racing community's response to the proposal was swift and robust. PRI and SEMA worked closely with local stakeholders to present a united front. PRI's members, bolstered by support from the SEMA Action Network, mobilized the motorsports community, raised awareness, and advocated for the interests of racing enthusiasts and businesses.

In its testimony, PRI and SEMA strongly opposed HB 2738, highlighting several key concerns. The letter emphasized that the specialty automotive aftermarket industry generates $3.27 billion in economic impact, supports more than 14,000 jobs, and contributes significantly to Oregon's state and local tax revenues.

What's Next

While HB 2738 is dead for this year, the conversation around leaded fuel and its environmental impact is far from over. PIR has been in the crosshairs of activists for years, and the motorsports community must remain vigilant and proactive in advocating for their interests. We thank all who engaged on this effort for their unwavering support and advocacy. Their efforts have been pivotal in this ongoing battle to protect the interests of the motorsports community.

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

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a significant win for the racing community, Oregon House Bill (HB) 2738, which aimed to ban the use of leaded fuel at Portland International Raceway (PIR), and thus shut down the race track, is dead. The bill missed a critical legislative deadline and will not advance this year.

The bill was problematic from the start, relying on junk science advanced by neighborhood activists seeking to eliminate a local institution. In the end, the grassroots and lobbying efforts of PRI and SEMA generated a groundswell of opposition from motorsports enthusiasts and state lawmakers. These efforts are what delivered this significant victory at a time when race tracks nationwide are at risk of shutting down.

If enacted, HB 2738 would have significantly impacted the historic 63-year-old facility that has hosted an impressive cadre of champion drivers, including Mario and Michael Andretti, Emerson Fittipaldi and Álex Palou. Major racing events at PIR, such as those by INDYCAR and NASCAR, generate more than $32 million annually for Portland's economy.

The racing industry rallied against the bill, with organizations like PRI and SEMA highlighting the minimal environmental impact of leaded fuel emissions at the track and that many racers were already transitioning to alternative fuels.

How It Happened

The bill to shut down PIR was introduced at the start of Oregon's legislative session, and the racing community's response to the proposal was swift and robust. PRI and SEMA worked closely with local stakeholders to present a united front. PRI's members, bolstered by support from the SEMA Action Network, mobilized the motorsports community, raised awareness, and advocated for the interests of racing enthusiasts and businesses.

In its testimony, PRI and SEMA strongly opposed HB 2738, highlighting several key concerns. The letter emphasized that the specialty automotive aftermarket industry generates $3.27 billion in economic impact, supports more than 14,000 jobs, and contributes significantly to Oregon's state and local tax revenues.

What's Next

While HB 2738 is dead for this year, the conversation around leaded fuel and its environmental impact is far from over. PIR has been in the crosshairs of activists for years, and the motorsports community must remain vigilant and proactive in advocating for their interests. We thank all who engaged on this effort for their unwavering support and advocacy. Their efforts have been pivotal in this ongoing battle to protect the interests of the motorsports community.

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

By SEMA News Editors

Registration is open for the SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, the annual program for exhibitors to learn how to maximize their Show experience, returns to Las Vegas in 2025 with new dates: Wednesday, June 25, Thursday, June 26, and Friday, June 27 (travel date).

Register and view the 2025 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit agenda and more details at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit.

For those that have already secured their SEMA Show booth, the Exhibitor Summit, which will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) South Hall Skybridge, will lead exhibitors through the art of the exhibit, step-by-step, to maximize their SEMA Show experience at the LVCC later this year, November 4-7.

"Exhibiting at the SEMA Show is an art form with proven best practices and techniques that exhibitors can utilize to maximize their ROI. At the Exhibitor Summit across two days, you and your team will be armed with practical and proven strategies for lead generation, media engagement, booth layout, debuting products and cost-saving opportunities," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "Just make it to Vegas, and we've got your SEMA Show planning covered. But hurry, space is limited, so register and secure your spot today!"

As the SEMA Show continues to evolve, the Summit provides exhibitors with effective lead generation and sales-building programs as well as the latest information on how to build brand visibility, media engagement and marketing reach.

To support this mission, prominent content creators and media members will share first-hand insights on how they approach covering the SEMA Show, revealing to exhibitors how they can maximize their booth's impact on the media. In addition, organizers will also provide tips on launching new products, free and low-cost sponsorship opportunities, and everything exhibitors need to know to save time and money at the SEMA Show. Those seeking booth design and layout direction will not be disappointed, as the SEMA Show team will also share ways to create the best possible booth presentation that aligns with a brand's specific goals and needs.

Longtime exhibitors may notice an earlier Exhibitor Summit date this year. This change was designed to bring more impact to the event, as it will provide exhibitors with more time to put event takeaways into an actionable exhibit plan.

Register to join the SEMA Show team in Vegas this June, and we'll handle the rest. Exhibitors enjoy complimentary registration, a two-night hotel stay (for up to two representatives from each exhibiting company), and select meals courtesy of SEMA.

View the agenda and register for the 2025 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit.

Haven't signed up to exhibit at the 2025 SEMA Show yet? There is still time to secure your spot on the SEMA Show floor. Get ready to power your sales and marketing yearlong with a booth at the SEMA Show here.

Questions? Visit semashow.com/exhibitor or view key SEMA Show contacts here.

By SEMA News Editors

Singer Vehicle Design, CrossHarbor Capital Acquire Willow Springs International Raceway

Singer Vehicle Design, the California-based restorer of air-cooled Porsche 911s, and real estate investment firm CrossHarbor Capital have partnered to acquire Willow Springs International Raceway, the Kern County, California, racing facility.

The new ownership group sees public access as a key aspect of Willow Springs' success, according to a statement announcing the acquisition, and the raceway will continue to host both public and private events. Existing tracks, including all three road courses, will remain open to the public and undergo enhancements to improve safety.  A variety of track layouts, including karting, ATV courses and driver instruction, will continue to be available to a broad range of interests, company officials said.

In addition to being an owner, Singer will partner with CrossHarbor to create a private member's club. Membership will be open to Singer's clients as well as other like-minded enthusiasts and will enable drivers to bring their vehicles for track days and related experiences.

New ownership has already begun an in-depth evaluation of the raceway's facilities and will initially focus on track and safety improvements, including adding more asphalt and curbs and enhancing run-off areas with leveling and gravel. Future plans include upgrading its facilities, improving food and beverage offerings, and refining the track and driving experience.

Additionally, Speedway Motorsports, the North Carolina-based owner of California's Sonoma Raceway, will oversee track operations at the facility.

For more information, visit willowspringsraceway.com.

McLaren Racing to Enter WEC Hypercar Class in 2027

McLaren Racing, the United Kingdom-based Formula 1, INDYCAR and Formula E Team, is expanding into the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in the Hypercar prototype class beginning in 2027.

The British marque--which this year is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its 24 Hours of Le Mans victory with the F1 GTR in 1995--joins the top class in sports car racing for the first time since 1998.

In partnership with United Autosports, McLaren Automotive entered FIA WEC's LMGT3 division in 2024, tallying a trio of top four finishes in the 720S LMGT3 Evo's maiden campaign in the series.

McLaren is the latest manufacturer to announce its intent to join the Hypercar grid in the coming years, alongside Hyundai's Genesis-branded prototype effort and Ford, which both confirmed new Hypercar programs earlier this year.

For more information, visit fiawec.com.

By Ashley Reyes

Everyone strives to excel at work, but there's always room for growth and improvement. Whether it's refining skills, enhancing productivity or addressing feedback, navigating these areas can sometimes be challenging. 

On Tuesday, May 13, at 12:00 p.m. PDT, several of SEMA's councils and networks will host the webinar, "The Untold Truth: What Leaders Think (But Rarely Say)," to help aftermarket professionals learn strategies for elevating their professional performance. Registration is open at this link. 

The session brings together a panel of aftermarket leaders and executives who will share actionable tips, proven strategies and practical recommendations to help professionals put their best foot forward, manage tough feedback and identify areas of improvement. 

Panelists include Shawna Bacon, executive assistant at Oracle Lighting; Megan Cook, chief administrative officer at Power Automotive Media; and Lauren McCullough, founder and CEO at Tromml. Moderator Tiffanie Hartenstein, CEO at Oracle Lighting, will guide the discussion and facilitate the question-and-answer period. 

Tailored to aftermarket professionals who are seeking next-level career growth, this session will provide attendees with tools and insights for performing their best. Register here. 

This webinar is hosted in collaboration with the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN), SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN), SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA), and the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC).