By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Motorsports Products and Media Council (MPMC) calls on industry members to recognize outstanding journalists and leaders for their contributions to the motorsports industry. 

Nominations are open for the following awards, which provide much-needed recognition to the trailblazers shaping the future of our great industry. Submit a nomination here. 

MPMC Hall of Fame (Deadline: Friday, November 7)  

Presented at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show in Indianapolis in December 2025, the Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on motorsports parts manufacturing and/or the MPMC. Nominees should demonstrate unparalleled leadership and achievement, with a career spanning more than 10 years in the industry. Eligible nominees must be current or past employees of an MPMC member company and have made contributions to the growth and advancement of the motorsports parts market. 

Robert E. Petersen Media Award (Deadline: Friday, January 2)  

Presented at the MPMC Media Trade Conference, in Anaheim, California in January 2026, The Robert E. Petersen Media Award honors a member of the media—whether in print, online or broadcast—who has made a significant contribution to the motorsports industry. Honorees must be active journalists whose published work positively supports the industry while showcasing their ongoing commitment to telling the stories that move motorsports forward.  

Your nomination could be the spotlight that recognizes an individual whose vision and dedication inspire the entire motorsports community. Nominate a deserving leader or journalist now at this link.  

By SEMA News Editors

One night. One stage. The biggest names in the automotive aftermarket--only at the 2025 SEMA Industry Honors event in Las Vegas. And now, Show officials have announced the host for the first-ever SEMA Industry Honors event: American actor, filmmaker and lifelong car enthusiast Sung Kang (more on Kang and his career, below). 

On Thursday, November 6, the 2025 SEMA Industry Honors takes over the BleauLive Theater at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas for an unforgettable night celebrating the people and brands driving the industry forward. From SEMA Content Creator of the Year to SEMA Person of the Year and even more on-stage honors, this event is where SEMA's spotlight shines brightest.

Kick off the evening alongside industry titans, game-changers and visionaries with a cocktail reception at 6:00 p.m. PST, take in the awards ceremony at 7:00 p.m. PST, then keep the celebration going at an exclusive after-party with live music, hors d'oeuvres and an open bar for ticketed guests.

Tickets are just $50 per person. Seats are limited, so reserve yours today!

Visit SEMAShow.com/Honors or visit below to learn more and purchase tickets.

Sung Kang Hosts 2025 SEMA Industry Honors

The host of the 2025 SEMA Industry Honors, Kang is known worldwide for his portrayal of Han in "The Fast & The Furious" franchise. Beyond the screen, Kang has built a career defined by both storytelling and his deep connection to car culture. His latest project, "DRIFTER," marks his most personal work to date. Serving as writer, director, producer and lead actor, Kang crafted a film about a solitary janitor who finds redemption and belonging through the competitive drifting scene. For Kang, "DRIFTER" is more than a feature film; it is a love letter to the car community that has shaped his life. Kang's presence at SEMA has been equally influential. He has had the privilege of debuting three celebrated builds: the award-winning "Fugu Z" Datsun 240Z, the "Project Underdog" Ford Maverick built in collaboration with high school students, and the "Doc Z," a safari-inspired Datsun 240Z.

This year, Kang returns to the 2025 SEMA Show with the "Fugu Z" for its 10-year anniversary, alongside the debut of the "Veilside 240Z," nicknamed "78." Kang remains deeply grateful to the car community and the aftermarket industry for making these milestones and his current film project possible. To him, cars represent more than machines; they are vessels of connection, creativity and dreams realized. 

2025 SEMA Industry Honors Details

• BleauLive Theater, Fontainebleau Las Vegas
• Thursday, November 6 
• 6:00 p.m. PST Reception | 7:00 p.m. PST Awards Ceremony 
• Tickets: $50; includes hors d'oeuvres and access to open bar.

Attendee registration for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas, is now available online here. Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $100 per person, with badge pickup on-site on the SEMA Show campus. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX.

Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

For more information about the 2025 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com. Sign up for updates on SEMA Fest at semafest.com.

Editor's Note: The Show Directory (November 2025 issue of SEMA magazine) erroneously stated the host of this event. The actual host is Sung Kang.  

By SEMA News Editors

The 2025 SEMA Fest is officially set to deliver an unforgettable blend of music, motorsports and car culture in just over one month in Las Vegas. Beginning Friday, November 7, at 9:00 a.m. PT, fans will experience heart-pounding drifting and tire-burning performance activations across the Las Vegas Convention Center campus, including Hoonigan (Silver Lot 3), Nitro Circus Moto Mayhem (Silver Lot 1), HorsePower Rodeo (Diamond Lot) and OPTIMA Unleashed (Bronze Lot).

The action continues into the night with the Urias Family's Original Globe of Death and encore performances from OPTIMA Unleashed, leading into headlining sets from Queens of the Stone Age, The Black Crowes and Neon Trees.

Fans have until this Sunday, October 5, to secure SEMA Fest tickets at the lowest available price.

2025 SEMA Fest Fan Details

Attendees are encouraged to book accommodations through the official SEMA Show housing partner, onPeak, to access exclusive rates and benefits at top Las Vegas hotels at compass.onpeak.com/e/63SEM2025HIR/0.

Please note that parking will be unavailable at the Las Vegas Convention Center, and SEMA Cruise street closures may be in effect. Therefore, we highly recommend arriving early to enjoy the whole SEMA Fest experience.

Guests may use nearby off-campus lots (subject to daily fees and availability):

• Piero's Italian Cuisine – 355 Convention Center Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89109
• Westgate – 3009 Joe W Brown Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89109
• Residence Inn – 3225 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
• Courtyard Las Vegas – 3275 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
• SpringHill Suites – 2989 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
• Fontainebleau – 2777 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
• Embassy Suites – 3600 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169

Oversized vehicle parking inquiries should be directed to each property. Additional nearby parking options may also be found through apps such as Parkopedia and SpotHero. 

🔗 Visit semafest.com for tickets, updates and full event details.
📩 Have questions? Email info@semafest.com.
🤝 For sponsorship or partnership inquiries, contact partnership@semafest.com.

This article was originally published on October 14, 2025.

By SEMA News Editors

How are the performance, motorsports and accessory markets performing this year? SEMA and PRI want to hear directly from the professionals who live and breathe this industry every day: you.

Your feedback helps SEMA and PRI understand current market trends and challenges so we can continue providing valuable resources, data and programs that strengthen the automotive aftermarket and motorsports industries. Responses from this survey will be combined into the "State of the Industry Report," a comprehensive look at how businesses across the industry are doing—so you can see how your company compares.

It only takes a few minutes to share your perspective, and your input makes a real difference in shaping the information and insights we deliver to the community.

Plus, when you complete the survey, you’ll be entered into a drawing for one of five $100 gift cards!

Your experience drives our understanding of the market. Thank you for helping us keep the industry informed, connected, and moving forward.

By SEMA News Editors

The clock is ticking--applications for the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish close at the end of this week. Every year, the best builds and the boldest customizations face off in the industry's leading vehicle competition to see who will be crowned the next champion. 

Applications are open for the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish at semabotb.com. All builders with a vehicle displayed at the 2025 SEMA Show may enter the competition at semabotb.com before the deadline on October 17, 2025.

The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB) will recognize class champions as the best in four categories:

• Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck
• 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road
• Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic
• BFGoodrich Young Guns

Only one of the class champions will be crowned the overall BOTB champion during this year's SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas.

Battle of the Builders BFGoodrich Young Guns Category

Supporting and inspiring young builders is crucial to the future of the automotive specialty-equipment market. The BOTB BFGoodrich Young Guns category is designed to encourage young builders to pursue their passions and shine a light on the up-and-coming builders.

"Young Guns" is a designation within the overall BOTB competition to recognize builders who are under the age of 29 (as of November 7, 2025). Those who meet the criteria and have selected the Young Guns category on the online application are eligible to participate.

For more information and to apply, visit semabotb.com. For the complete BOTB terms and conditions, visit here.

Attendee registration for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas, is now available online here. Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $100 per person for both online and onsite registration. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX.

For updates on SEMA Fest, the one-day musical and motorsports festival on Friday, November 7, or to purchase "SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public" tickets, visit semafest.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors planning a vehicle reveal can have it featured in the official SEMA Show mobile app and in exclusive communications to attending media by notifying the SEMA Public Relations team no later than October 20.

To be included, email the following details to pr@sema.org:

• Exhibitor Name
• Booth Number
• One-sentence teaser about your reveal
• Date and Time of the unveiling

This is your chance to amplify your brand's visibility and attract media coverage before the doors even open.

In addition, exhibitors are encouraged to upload press releases to the SEMA Show Online Media Center at www.semashow.com/press-release--free of charge. Posting your press release is one of the best ways to create buzz and draw attention to your booth activities, product launches, announcements, and celebrity appearances.

Don't miss the opportunity to get your news in front of thousands of journalists and influencers covering the SEMA Show.

For questions or assistance, contact the SEMA Public Relations team at pr@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, is just weeks away, and if you haven't already reserved your accommodations, now is the time to make your travel arrangements.

Although travel costs are trending upward, SEMA Showgoers can still find plenty of reliable discounts on hotels by booking through SEMA's official hotel block.

SEMA and its official housing partner, onPeak, have negotiated the best possible rates, offering showgoers cost-saving benefits alongside a myriad of advantages, including fully flexible booking, potential hotel rewards points, and group reservations at the best hotels in Las Vegas, including multiple properties that cost less than $200 per night. 

Save $$$, and book at these hotels that are available for less than $200 a night, including resort fees and taxes*:

*As of publish date, October 14, 2025

SEMA Showgoers can only get the discounted rates when booking through the only official hotel provider, onPeak, here.

But that's not the only way to save on your accommodations.

Driving to the Show? See the list below for hotels offering free parking during the Show and book through onPeak to secure your stay.  

In addition, when you book in the official SEMA Show hotel block, not only do you benefit from cost-saving rates, exclusive amenities and outstanding service, but you are also showing your support for the SEMA Show. The more rooms booked in the block, the more we can negotiate lower room rates and additional concessions, which enables the SEMA Show management team to meet the needs of attendees better.

Registration for the 2025 SEMA Show is now open online here.

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

For questions and SEMA Show registration assistance, call 508-743-8571, Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET, or email AAPEXSEMA@maritz.com.

Sponsored by F1 Arcade Las Vegas

F1® Arcade Las Vegas, the one-of-a-kind entertainment and hospitality destination combining the thrill of Formula 1® with world-class food and cocktails, announces an opening date of Friday, October 17, and is now accepting reservations. The highly anticipated, 21,000-sq.-ft. destination inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace will mark the brand's largest United States location to date.

Bringing together the high-octane energy and adrenaline of Formula 1®, F1 Arcade Las Vegas will feature 87 full-motion simulators designed for all different abilities. The cutting-edge technology allows guests to choose between high-thrill experiences around the world's most iconic tracks such as Team Racing, which challenges groups of four or more to race against each other or go Head to Head, a more intense session with up to three drivers in a fast-paced competition.

The experience will also feature several reaction-based games, including React, a lightning-fast reaction game similar to the Batak-style training used by drivers and Lights Out, where every millisecond counts in a high-pressure race start. To round out the experience, the venue will also include an outdoor terrace overlooking the Las Vegas Strip.

The venue's collection of globally inspired dishes will ensure guests enjoy memorable culinary offerings along with their exhilarating competitive entertainment experience. From seafood towers to wagyu beef sliders, guests can indulge in a large selection of dishes using fresh, high-quality ingredients bursting with flavor. The beverage program will include signature cocktails and "Designated Drivers" non-alcoholic cocktails, concocted by LP O'Brien, winner of the first season of Netflix's "Drink Masters."

At official F1® Watch Parties, guests will be able to catch the upcoming Austin, Mexico and Brazil Grand Prix live on the venue's large TV screens with commentary in an adrenaline-filled atmosphere. Visitors may enjoy unlimited sim racing before the pros get on the real track, as well as competitions, quizzes for prizes and after the checkered flag, DJs will keep the party going. Watch Party tickets will be announced this fall.

"There's no better place to open F1 Arcade than right here in Las Vegas at The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, and the timing couldn't be more perfect," said Adam Breeden, founder and CEO, F1 Arcade. "With all the racing buzz hitting the city this fall, we're giving everyone a chance to feel that adrenaline for themselves. Whether you're a die-hard fan, a first-timer or just here to eat, drink and soak up the elevated vibe, it's going to be a hell of a ride."

F1 Arcade Las Vegas will follow successful openings in Boston, Washington, DC, Philadelphia and Denver, with additional locations planned for Atlanta and more cities to come. Globally, the brand plans to open 30 venues within five years.

Located at 3500 South Las Vegas Blvd. inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, F1 Arcade Las Vegas will be open Monday through Thursday from 12:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (All times PT). F1 Arcade welcomes all ages until 7:00 p.m., but drivers must be at least 7 years old to race on the simulators. After 7:00 p.m., the venue welcomes guests 21 and older with a valid I.D. Children under the age of 14 must be supervised by an adult at all times. Reservations for Head to Head start at $26 per driver and admission to an F1® Watch Party starts at $59 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

By SEMA News Editors

First Brands Group Names Charles Moore as Interim CEO

First Brands Group, a global supplier of aftermarket automotive parts, has appointed Charles Moore as interim CEO, succeeding founder and CEO Patrick James, who resigned from the company, according to published reports.

Moore, who brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in restructuring and performance improvement in the automotive industry, has served as First Brands' chief restructuring officer since September 2025. He takes over as First Brands continues its Chapter 11 cases in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas.

As Interim CEO, Moore will collaborate with the company's management team and advisors to guide operational stabilization efforts and oversee a court-supervised sale process, while also providing support to the special committee of the board of directors. No other changes to the executive leadership team are expected, reports said.  

For more information, visit firstbrandsgroup.com.

Road2SEMA Rally Ignites Coast-to-Coast Drive for Make-a-Wish America

A 3,500-mile automotive adventure, four wild UK builds, one powerful mission to make dreams come true. This fall, the Road2SEMA Charity Rally will fire up the highways of America, taking four jaw-dropping UK-built cars on a 3,500-mile journey from New Jersey to Las Vegas in support of Make-A-Wish® America.

Along the way, the Rally will make ten major event stops, giving enthusiasts across the country the rare chance to see the cars up close, meet the builders behind them, and be part of a shared mission: turning horsepower into hope.

Leading the charge is the Petrolheadonism VW Corrado VR6 Clubsport, a stunning UK-engineered showpiece built for the 2025 SEMA Show. Three equally outrageous builds will join it:

• Ferrari-engined Subaru GF8 2V Wagon: a brutal, track-bred wagon with pure rally spirit.
• Backfire Media's Drift Limo: a sideways beast featuring a Mercedes-Benz body, six bucket seats, and a twin-turbo BMW V8 under the hood.
• Twin Turbo Lamborghini Huracan: a no-limits supercar that will roar louder than Las Vegas itself during SEMA week.

Each vehicle is designed to represent the passion, skill and creativity of the UK's custom car scene.

Supporters can scan the QR code on the Corrado to donate to Make-A-Wish America. With a $5 donation, they can also enter the official sweepstakes to win the Corrado itself.

Every dollar raised fuels life-changing wishes for children facing critical illnesses, making every mile of this rally count.

The grand prize draw will take place on Friday, November 7, at 2:30 p.m. PST, live from the EBC Brakes booth (Central Hall, Booth #23151) at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas and streamed globally.

"Road2SEMA isn't just about incredible cars, it's about driving hope, one mile at a time," said Ciro Ciampi, Petrolheadonism.club founder and CEO. "This is our chance to do something extraordinary with the automotive community behind us."

The Road2SEMA Rally kicks off on October 23 and will host daily activations in the following locations: New Jersey, Washington, Kentucky, Nashville, Memphis, Dallas, Roswell, Monument Valley, Scottsdale, and finally Las Vegas for the SEMA Show, November 4-7.

For more information or to get involved, visit Road2SEMA.us.

[Editor's note: This program and sweepstakes are backed by the Road2SEMA Charity Rally and are not official SEMA programs.]

Ford Announces Key Leadership Changes

Ford Motor Company has announced a series of leadership changes designed to strengthen its global operations.

"These global leadership appointments underscore our relentless commitment to building a truly world-class team across Ford, united by a singular focus: delivering product excellence and quality for our customers globally," said Jim Farley, Ford president and CEO.

Effective November 1, Jim Baumbick has been appointed president of Ford Europe. Baumbick, who most recently served as vice president of advanced product development, cycle planning and programs, will lead the strategic direction of Ford's European business unit. In this role, he will focus on aligning with key regional stakeholders, developing products tailored to European customers, and driving faster, more efficient execution. He will report to Ford vice chair John Lawler.

Baumbick succeeds his previous role as vice president of advanced product development, cycle planning and programs, which will now be filled by Sam Basile. Basile joins Ford from General Motors, where he spent nearly three decades in leadership positions, most recently as vice president of global product programs. He joins Ford on October 13 and will report to Ford Chief Operating Officer Kumar Galhotra.

Bryce Currie, currently vice president of Americas manufacturing, assumes an expanded global role as chief manufacturing officer with responsibility for manufacturing and safety worldwide. Kieran Cahill, vice president of industrial operations europe and IMG, will report to Currie.

Andrew Frick, president of Ford Blue and Model e, will now also lead the Lincoln Motor Company. With this change, Ford's global retail business units for gas, hybrid and electric vehicles, including Lincoln, will be unified under one leader. Joaquin Nuño-Whelan will continue as president of Lincoln, reporting to Frick.

Ford also announced the retirements of two longtime product development and engineering executives: Chuck Gray, vice president of vehicle hardware engineering, and Darren Palmer, vice president of EV programs.

Gray, who retires December 1, built a reputation for engineering excellence and made lasting contributions to the Industrial System team and the company as a whole. He will be succeeded by Charles Poon, currently director of electrified propulsion engineering. Poon becomes vice president of Vehicle Hardware Engineering on November 1, reporting to Galhotra.

Palmer, a founding member of Team Edison, played a pivotal role in shaping Ford's electric vehicle strategy and helped launch the Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, and E-Transit. His retirement is effective November 1.

For more information, visit the Ford website.

NPW Promotes Rickerson to VP of Sales and Marketing

Parts distributor NPW Companies has promoted Danielle Rickerson to vice president of sales and marketing, according to published reports.

Rickerson previously served as the company's director of marketing and communications. Rickerson has more than 20 years of experience and brings a deep understanding of market trends, customer needs and operation, the company said.

For more information, npwcompanies.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA is calling on passionate members like you to get involved and make an impact! Volunteer now for Members-at-Large positions across SEMA's nine Councils and Networks. 

Serving as a volunteer leader is your opportunity to: 

• Expand your network – Connect with fellow industry professionals and leaders. 
• Shape the future – Influence programs, events, and resources that move the industry forward. 
• Build your skills – Gain leadership experience and professional development. 
• Give back – Contribute your expertise to help others in the community. 
• Be recognized – Stand out as an engaged, committed industry advocate. 
• Have a voice – Represent your segment and share ideas that matter. 

Your participation helps strengthen the community that drives us all forward. 

👉 Apply today to become a Member-at-Large Volunteer and help guide the future of your industry. 

SEMA's Councils and Networks: 

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) 
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) 
• Future Leaders Network (FLN) 
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) 
• Motorsports Performance & Media Council (MPMC) 
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) 
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) 
• Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) 
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension, & Brake Council (WTSBC) 

Together, we drive the industry forward. 

SEMA is calling on passionate members like you to get involved and make an impact! Volunteer now for Members-at-Large positions across SEMA’s nine Councils and Networks.