By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Rob Jarrell, video production manager at Quadratec, as the council's newest spotlight member. Get to know Jarrell in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry? 

Rob Jarrell: I've been an automotive enthusiast for as long as I can remember. I also enjoy the outdoors and exploring new places, so the truck and off-road space is a natural fit. It's an industry that rewards creativity, hands-on problem solving and passion--things that have always driven me.

SN: Why did you join the TORA council?

RJ: I joined the TORA council to become more involved and help support the continued growth of the truck and off-road aftermarket. I've been with Quadratec since 2009, starting as a web developer and designer before expanding into email marketing, social media and, eventually, video production. Today, I work on everything from product reviews and how-to content to full event coverage for the Quadratec YouTube channel. I'm excited to lend my experience, collaborate with other industry members and contribute to initiatives that strengthen the TORA and SEMA communities.

SN: What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

RJ: Never turn down an opportunity. You never know what door it could open next.

SN: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle? What is your daily driver?

RJ: That's a tough one, but I think it would have to be a '04–'06 Jeep Wrangler TJ Unlimited Rubicon, tastefully modified to be highly capable. I'd run it on 37s with AEV Highline fenders and hood, a Mopar Rock Crawler front bumper and minimal suspension lift. A close runner-up would be an AEV TJ Brute.

My current daily driver is a '20 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon.

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

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and its Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) subsidiary continue to push for protecting and expanding motorized access to public lands, seeking action by the influential U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests and Mining on behalf of a bill that would permanently protect motorized access to roads and trails for Americans with disabilities. 

In a recently submitted statement (read the full statement here) in support of S 2968, the "Outdoor Americans with Disabilities Act," SEMA and ORBA hailed the bill as "a welcome policy shift in the name of expanding access on government lands for all Americans." 

"SEMA and ORBA support this landmark bill, which ensures that our nation's public lands and the natural treasures are open to all Americans," wrote Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA senior vice president for public and government affairs. "For far too long, federal land management policies have reduced motorized recreational access to public lands at the expense of the disabled and large segments of the U.S. population who are not physically able to enjoy them." 

• Show your support by sending a letter to your U.S. Senators asking them to support the Outdoor Americans with Disabilities Act. 

Bill Highlights 

• S 2968 permanently protects "disability-accessible land," which it defines as public land on which at least 2.5 miles of authorized roads accessible to motorized or off-road vehicles exist for each square mile.  
• The bill requires the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) and the Forest Service to prioritize updating travel management plans and motor vehicle use on U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Forest Service lands.  
• The BLM and Forest Service may not close roads that would disqualify land from disability-accessible status unless the road was for temporary emergency access or it is a threat to the health and safety of visitors. 
• The BLM and Forest Service must provide notice of any proposed road closures, allow for a public comment period and conduct a public hearing regarding the closure. 
• For any roads closed, the Forest Service and DOI must nominate and establish a new road. 
• When developing motor vehicle use maps, DOI and the Forest Service must: 
  • Account for the length of roads in each square mile of public land under their management.
  • Prioritize roads that provide access to diverse recreation opportunities.
  • Coordinate with federal agencies, state, county, and local governments, and Tribal governments to determine which roads offer the best access to disability-accessible land.
  • Have the authority to revise routes on public land in response to changes in local conditions.

For questions about this legislation, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA senior director for federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

Image Courtesy of Shutterstock | Ceri Breeze

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and its Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) subsidiary continue to push for protecting and expanding motorized access to public lands, seeking action by the influential U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests and Mining on behalf of a bill that would permanently protect motorized access to roads and trails for Americans with disabilities. 

In a recently submitted statement (read the full statement here) in support of S 2968, the "Outdoor Americans with Disabilities Act," SEMA and ORBA hailed the bill as "a welcome policy shift in the name of expanding access on government lands for all Americans." 

"SEMA and ORBA support this landmark bill, which ensures that our nation's public lands and the natural treasures are open to all Americans," wrote Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA senior vice president for public and government affairs. "For far too long, federal land management policies have reduced motorized recreational access to public lands at the expense of the disabled and large segments of the U.S. population who are not physically able to enjoy them." 

• Show your support by sending a letter to your U.S. Senators asking them to support the Outdoor Americans with Disabilities Act. 

Bill Highlights 

• S 2968 permanently protects "disability-accessible land," which it defines as public land on which at least 2.5 miles of authorized roads accessible to motorized or off-road vehicles exist for each square mile.  
• The bill requires the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) and the Forest Service to prioritize updating travel management plans and motor vehicle use on U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Forest Service lands.  
• The BLM and Forest Service may not close roads that would disqualify land from disability-accessible status unless the road was for temporary emergency access or it is a threat to the health and safety of visitors. 
• The BLM and Forest Service must provide notice of any proposed road closures, allow for a public comment period and conduct a public hearing regarding the closure. 
• For any roads closed, the Forest Service and DOI must nominate and establish a new road. 
• When developing motor vehicle use maps, DOI and the Forest Service must: 
  • Account for the length of roads in each square mile of public land under their management.
  • Prioritize roads that provide access to diverse recreation opportunities.
  • Coordinate with federal agencies, state, county, and local governments, and Tribal governments to determine which roads offer the best access to disability-accessible land.
  • Have the authority to revise routes on public land in response to changes in local conditions.

For questions about this legislation, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA senior director for federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

Image Courtesy of Shutterstock | Ceri Breeze

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA is currently accepting nominations for the SEMA Hall of Fame now through Friday, March 13, 2026.  

The award honors individuals in the automotive aftermarket who have enhanced the stature of, or significantly contributed to, the industry and/or association's growth. Inductees can be innovators, volunteers or leaders from any aftermarket segment or niche.

"The industry has grown exponentially thanks to the people who saw opportunities where others did not," said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Joe Escobar. "The Hall of Fame ensures that we not only honor the people who built the industry but also celebrate their impact on the present day and inspire others to carry the torch forward."

To understand the caliber of character the Hall of Fame seeks to recognize, one need to look no further than Ed "Isky" Iskenderian. Known globally as "The Camfather," Isky didn't just build engines--he built the very foundation of this industry. As SEMA's first volunteer president (a role equivalent to today's chairman) and a 1978 Hall of Fame inductee, his life's work irrevocably shaped hot rodding, drag racing and the performance aftermarket. Iskenderian passed away on Februrary 4, 2026, at the age of 104, after a life that irrevocably shaped hot rodding, drag racing and the performance aftermarket. 

The video below features an interview with the legendary engine builder, offering a glimpse into the wit, wisdom and grit that defined a century of automotive excellence.
 

Nominate Today

If you know someone who exemplifies the character of Iskenderian, now is the time to recognize them by nominating them for induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame.  

To be considered, nominees must have made national and/or international contributions to the automotive specialty-equipment industry; have been involved in the industry and/or SEMA for at least 10 years (15 preferred); and have helped advance technology, professionalism, dignity or the overall growth of the aftermarket. Nominees must be at least 50 years old by the 2026 SEMA Show, or may be any age if deceased, provided the nomination is submitted at least one year posthumously. 

Nominate today at www.sema.org/hof.  

Click here to view all SEMA Hall of Fame members.   

By SEMA News Editors

New this year, exhibitors must activate or create an account in our new CRM before submitting their 2026 SEMA Show Exhibit Space Rental Application (ESRA).

SEMA has launched a new customer management system ahead of this year's SEMA Show, November 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas.

To improve how SEMA engages with exhibitors and serves the industry year-round, the association has migrated to a new customer management system powered by Salesforce.

What This Means for 2026 SEMA Show Exhibitors

New this year, exhibitors must activate or create an account in our new customer relationship management (CRM) system before submitting their 2026 SEMA Show Exhibit Space Rental Application (ESRA). Once an account is set up, industry members will be able to:

• Reserve exhibit space.
• Download invoices, complete online payments and access exhibitor resources.

How to Get Started

Getting set up in the new SEMA Show exhibitor platform is simple:

• Visit services.semashow.com.
• Returning exhibitors:
  • Enter the email you've used to purchase a SEMA Show booth before to receive a password reset link (click here).
• New exhibitors or returning exhibitors using a new email: 
  • Create a new account (click here)

Once logged in, exhibitors are ready to reserve an exhibit space.

Having Issues Reserving Your Exhibit Space? 

If you're not receiving a password reset email or can't set up a new account, it's possible your record has more than one email address on file. In that case, our team will need to assist you with setting up your account.

SEMA is providing hands-on support to ensure a smooth transition for every exhibitor. 

Call: 240-ASK-SEMA (240-275-7362)

Email: customercare@sema.org

SEMA's stellar customer care team will walk you through account setup, password resets or answer any question

Note: updating your account does not affect exhibitors' account history or SEMA Show seniority.

We're excited to share what we've been working on--and we look forward to helping you make the most of it.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | DC Studio

By SEMA News Editors

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

Group-A Engineering

CAD Technician and Designer in Norco, California

This role will develop working 3D-CAD models from concept as well as produce manufacture-ready 2D production drawings for a wide range of automotive and motorcycle aftermarket performance components and assemblies.

Rebel Off Road

Off-Road Technician in Irving, Texas

The Irving, Texas, shop is looking for an experienced technician to work on suspension installs, axle and drivetrain upgrades, fenders and bumpers, lighting and mount installs, recovery gear, roof racks and more.

Vintage Air

Vice President of Sales and Marketing in San Antonio, Texas

Vintage Air is seeking a candidate with proven marketing leadership experience withing the automotive or aftermarket industries to own Vintage Air's marketing across digital and direct channels, distributor and installer networks, OEM and builder relationships, enthusiast and professional shop communities and more.

Feed Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Andrey Popov

By SEMA News Editors

IHRA Acquires Atlanta Dragway, Agrees to Terms on Acquisition of Virginia Motorsports Park

The IHRA has acquired Atlanta Dragway in Banks County, Georgia, and has agreed to acquire Virginia Motorsports Park, a drag-racing, autocross, drifting and motocross facility in Dinwiddie, Virginia.

Originally opened in 1976, Atlanta Dragway closed in 2021. Following the purchase, IHRA will host the IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series World Finals, October 22-24, 2026, and serve as a key hub for sportsman competition, national events and community programming, the sanctioning body said.

Additionally, IHRA announced it has agreed to acquire Virginia Motorsports Park from Tommy and Judy Franklin, who have owned the 500-acre facility since 2018.

For more information, visit ihra.com.

Formula Drift Launches Content Studio for Video Production

Long Beach, California-based Formula DRIFT is relaunching FD Studios to create content at the highest level.

Longtime staff members Joyce Leung and Teo Corrales have been appointed co-directors of FD Studios, in charge of developing the entire Formula DRIFT content strategy, including sponsor-related content plus managing usage, broadcast and copyright matters.

Additionally, the pair will manage a roster of media personnel to develop and distribute stories and content from both the FD PRO and PROSPEC Championships.

"We're excited to enter this new chapter with FD Studios and look forward to producing fresh and engaging content for the fans to enjoy," said Leung. 

"FD Studios in 2026 will be telling compelling, original stories, creating lasting memories and showcasing every layer of the Formula DRIFT eco-system within the world of drifting," Corrales added.

With FD Studios already in operation, it has announced Larry Chen Photography as the first agency to sign up as a content creator. The team managed by the photographer and videographer will provide FD Studios with both production capability and the unique eye of the Formula DRIFT Hall of Fame recipient, Larry Chen.

"Formula DRIFT has always been my home. I started photographing in 2006 and the series has given me and my team the ideal environment to practice, hone our craft and push our creativity without limitations," said Chen. "It's been an absolute honor to be the official photographer since 2012, and after all these years, it makes sense for us to also provide video content to the series, showcasing professional drifting in the most beautiful and awe-inspiring way possible with cinematic motion pictures and incredible slow-motion clips. We'll strive to ensure our video content will be the best representation of Formula DRIFT in order to help the series grow since video is often how people around the world learn about professional drifting. I'm looking forward to pushing what's possible with Formula DRIFT content in 2026 and beyond."

"By relaunching FD Studios, we've empowered two of our longstanding team members, who've repeatedly proven themselves capable and ready to head our internal studio, to lead this new initiative. Their roles will focus on content generation with a strong underlying narrative to impart the strength of the Formula DRIFT brand," said Formula DRIFT President Ryan Sage. "I could not be more thrilled to build the studio within the walls of our HQ. And in partnership with Larry Chen Photography, our foundation is already strong and capable of moving at the pace needed to keep up with one of the fastest-moving action sports series in the world."

Content creators and media agencies wishing to collaborate with FD Studios can contact them directly at FDstudios@formulad.com. 

For more information, visit formulad.com.

NASCAR Introduces NASCAR Local Racing Series Powered by O'Reilly Auto Parts

NASCAR has relaunched its weekly racing series as the NASCAR Local Racing Series Powered by O'Reilly Auto Parts, a strategic reframing of its longstanding grassroots racing platform designed to more clearly reflect the vital role local short tracks play in communities across the United States and Canada.

Formerly known as the NASCAR Weekly Series, the NASCAR Local Racing Series places renewed emphasis on the competitive, community-driven racing that serves as the foundation of the sport. The updated identity simplifies how grassroots racing is presented to fans, partners and communities, while reinforcing NASCAR's long-standing commitment to local competitors and hometown tracks.

"Local short tracks are the heartbeat of NASCAR--they're where raw talent is developed, hard-nosed competition is on full display, and the next generation of stars earns its stripes," said Joey Dennewitz, managing director of NASCAR Regional. "Week after week, these drivers compete in intense, high-level racing environments that demand skill, resilience and respect for the craft. The NASCAR Local Racing Series Powered by O'Reilly Auto Parts captures the authenticity, toughness and community pride that define grassroots racing, while presenting it in a way that is clearer and more accessible for fans and partners alike. This platform celebrates the tracks and communities where racing isn't just something you watch--it's something you live."

As part of the launch, O'Reilly Auto Parts has been named the exclusive entitlement partner of the NASCAR Local Racing Series, further deepening its long-standing relationship with NASCAR, which includes the title sponsorship of the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.

"O'Reilly Auto Parts has a deep-rooted passion in providing excellent customer service and helping customers keep their cars in great condition, whether it's in local racing or regular commuters" said Hugo Sanchez, vice president of marketing and advertising at O'Reilly Auto Parts. "From local short tracks to the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series and throughout the country, our commitment to NASCAR fans and our customers spans the full spectrum. Powering the NASCAR Local Racing Series allows us to continue supporting racers, teams and local communities."

In addition to O'Reilly Auto Parts' entitlement partnership, Grizzly Nicotine Pouches, a brand of American Snuff Company, will serve as a significant partner to local tracks within the NASCAR Local Racing Series footprint, providing additional support through signage and market-level activations.

The NASCAR Local Racing Series Powered by O'Reilly Auto Parts will continue to sanction weekly racing at tracks across North America, serving as a critical entry point for emerging drivers and a cornerstone of NASCAR's driver development pathway. You can watch NASCAR local races all season on FloRacing.

For more information, visit NASCAR.com/Regional.

Image courtesy of NASCAR | Darren McCollester/Getty Images

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

BMW M5 Touring Retouched for '28 Model Year

Originally spotted with a decidedly Neue Klasse front end, the '28-model-year M5 facelift has reverted to a more conventional aesthetic with only a hint of Neue Klasse in its design. Pictured in Touring specification, the mid-cycle refresh debuts a pair of slimmer headlight clusters and kidney grilles.

Emphasizing width, the new front end also integrates a different lower fascia with multiple vertical sections for the air intakes. The wagon-bodied prototype in these pictures also shows the quad exhaust peeking through a resculpted bumper. There will be new taillights as well, and similar to the front units the signature lighting also emphasizes width.

Given the extensive interior camouflage, the Bavarian automaker is most likely adapting the iX3’s infotainment system and Panoramic Vision setup for internal-combustion models. Panoramic Vision is a projection system that uses the entire width of the lower windshield to create a digital space for both the driver and the front passenger.

BMW Operating System X with Panoramic Vision will also lead to the elimination of the iDrive controller in favor of a voice- and touch-first interface along with more advanced steering wheel controls. The interior redesign should further include a larger and better integrated central touchscreen display along with an optional 3D head-up display. There is also talk of an optional passenger display.

Beyond the tech-heavy makeover, the interior is also expected to lean more heavily into premium trim pieces and materials. Preliminary information suggests that production of the M5 Touring will continue into mid-2032 with V8 power. For the first model year of the facelift, new exterior colors are reportedly in the works as well.

S68 is BMW’s code name for the 4.4L engine of the M5 Sedan and M5 Touring, an engine that recently lost a few horsepower in preparation for Euro 7 regulations. The S68 used in US-market vehicles has not lost any power. In Europe, however, BMW and the M division have introduced new electric drive and battery software that makes up for the lost internal combustion muscle. The G90 sedan and G99 wagon produce a combined 717 hp and 738 lb.-ft. of torque in their current iterations, with BMW claiming 3.5 seconds for the sprint from zero to 62 mph. When properly optioned both can reach a top speed of 190 mph.

Refined Rather Than Reinvented: Facelift for Jeep Avenger

Besides a few long-distance detail shots, these are the first clear images of a prototype for the facelifted Jeep Avenger. The refreshed model is expected to reach the market next year, although Jeep has not yet announced an official debut date. Most sources point to 2027 as the most likely timeframe, considering the model’s life cycle and the advanced stage of road testing. Interest around this facelift remains high, especially since the Avenger has proven to be a major commercial success across Europe.

A closer look at the camouflaged prototype suggests a fairly conservative update. The test vehicle spotted on public roads points to a light refresh rather than a radical redesign. The changes appear limited to specific details such as the bumpers, lighting signature and internal elements of the headlights. The body shape and proportions remain largely unchanged. All in all, the makeover will consist of subtle but carefully planned updates aimed at refreshing the look without altering the model’s identity.

This approach aligns well with Jeep’s strategy. The brand intends to preserve the recognizable character of a model that already enjoys strong customer approval while making targeted improvements to keep it up to date with current standards. The facelift therefore seems designed to refine rather than reinvent.

It comes as no surprise that the Avenger continues to attract attention from designers and enthusiasts alike. The model now plays a key role in Stellantis’ European lineup. Production takes place at the Tychy plant in Poland alongside the Fiat 600 and Alfa Romeo Junior, and among the three the Avenger recorded the strongest sales figures in 2025.

More details will likely emerge in the coming months, both in terms of design and technical updates. At that point, Jeep should also clarify when it plans to officially unveil the refreshed Avenger and which changes will accompany the debut of one of its most successful recent models.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI staff meet with West Virginia lawmakers at the West Virginia State Capitol during West Virginia Adventure Motorsports Day.

The annual, SEMA- and PRI-supported West Virginia Adventure Motorsports Day returned to the West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston, February 12, 2026, bringing together racers, off-road enthusiasts, builders and small businesses from across the state to highlight the growing impact of motorsports and off-road recreation on West Virginia's economy and culture. 

• The economic footprint of the industry in West Virginia is significant. Motorsports and related activity generate $174.94 million in total economic output, support nearly 1,000 jobs, provide $53.35 million in total wages and benefits and contribute $13.70 million in state and local taxes.  

More than 30 display vehicles filled the Capitol grounds, showcasing everything from dedicated racecars and lifted trucks to side-by-sides and custom off-road builds. More than 30 businesses participated, representing the manufacturers, builders and service providers that support the state's vibrant motorsports community. 

Attendees also met with legislators to advocate for Right-to-Race legislation (SB 655/HB 4478) introduced by Sen. Mark Maynard and Del. Gary Howell. The proposal would protect established race tracks from nuisance lawsuits filed by individuals who move near a track after it has already been constructed and is operating. The legislation is designed to provide certainty for long-standing facilities and preserve the ability of tracks to continue hosting races, events and community activities without the threat of costly litigation. 

"West Virginia understands that motorsports and off-road recreation are more than hobbies. They are part of the state's identity and a meaningful driver of economic activity," said Christian Robinson, SEMA and PRI senior director of state government affairs. "Events like this give small businesses, racers and track operators the opportunity to connect directly with lawmakers and ensure that policies protect both competition and the facilities that make it possible." 

For more information about SEMA & PRI's Right to Race initiative, email Robinson at christianr@sema.org. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI staff meet with West Virginia lawmakers at the West Virginia State Capitol during West Virginia Adventure Motorsports Day.

The annual, SEMA- and PRI-supported West Virginia Adventure Motorsports Day returned to the West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston, February 12, 2026, bringing together racers, off-road enthusiasts, builders and small businesses from across the state to highlight the growing impact of motorsports and off-road recreation on West Virginia's economy and culture. 

• The economic footprint of the industry in West Virginia is significant. Motorsports and related activity generate $174.94 million in total economic output, support nearly 1,000 jobs, provide $53.35 million in total wages and benefits and contribute $13.70 million in state and local taxes.  

More than 30 display vehicles filled the Capitol grounds, showcasing everything from dedicated racecars and lifted trucks to side-by-sides and custom off-road builds. More than 30 businesses participated, representing the manufacturers, builders and service providers that support the state's vibrant motorsports community. 

Attendees also met with legislators to advocate for Right-to-Race legislation (SB 655/HB 4478) introduced by Sen. Mark Maynard and Del. Gary Howell. The proposal would protect established race tracks from nuisance lawsuits filed by individuals who move near a track after it has already been constructed and is operating. The legislation is designed to provide certainty for long-standing facilities and preserve the ability of tracks to continue hosting races, events and community activities without the threat of costly litigation. 

"West Virginia understands that motorsports and off-road recreation are more than hobbies. They are part of the state's identity and a meaningful driver of economic activity," said Christian Robinson, SEMA and PRI senior director of state government affairs. "Events like this give small businesses, racers and track operators the opportunity to connect directly with lawmakers and ensure that policies protect both competition and the facilities that make it possible." 

For more information about SEMA & PRI's Right to Race initiative, email Robinson at christianr@sema.org.