By SEMA News Editors

Road & Track Unveils Its 2025 Performance Car of the Year

Road & Track has announced its selection for the 2025 performance car of the year in a recent article.

"We had aimed to crown two winners as we did last year, one coming in under $100,000 and one that costs over $100,000. But the market for reasonably priced new enthusiast machines is small, and this year's crop of new or significantly updated models was slimmer than most years'. The Miata and BMW Z4 manual--the only two cars in our test under $100,000 are excellent, but they do not constitute a class. So this year, all 10 entrants competed in a single division, resulting in a single winner. And what a car it is," David Pund wrote.

Lamborghini's new Revuelto, the first 1,001hp Lamborghini and the marque's first battery-electric hybrid, was crowned the overall winner.

Read the complete review on Road & Track here.

SuperSprings International Welcomes New Sales Leadership and Expands Team

SuperSprings International (SSI)--the Carpinteria, California-based provider of American-made innovative suspension solutions--has announced the expansion of its sales-team under the leadership of Director of Sales Justin Coulter, who joined SSI in 2023.

The new sales team structure enables the company to better support its network of upfitters, RV manufacturers, dealers and individual customers nationwide.

Joining the team are three seasoned professionals:

• Angie Klatt, business development representative: With a proven track record in building strong relationships, Klatt will focus on identifying opportunities and fostering connections to expand SSI's reach.
• Mike Maul, regional territory manager for the Western United States: Based in Minnesota, Maul brings extensive knowledge of the industry and is dedicated to providing personalized support to customers in the Western region.
• Brian Hughes, regional territory manager for the Eastern United States: Operating from Kentucky, Hughes offers a deep understanding of regional needs and will ensure that customers in the Eastern region receive tailored solutions and top-tier service.

"We are thrilled to welcome Angie, Mike, and Brian to the SuperSprings International family," said Coulter. "Together, we're enhancing our ability to meet the needs of our partners and end users, ensuring every journey is better."

For more information, visit superspringsinternational.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) will host a town hall meeting at COBB Tuning in Austin, Texas, on Thursday, February 20, from 5:00–6:00 p.m. CST.  

The meeting is open to current SEMA and TORA members and will enable attendees to connect with the council's select committee and SEMA sales, who will share resources to help truck and off-road aftermarket companies succeed in the industry. Additionally, SEMA Government Affairs will provide updates on legislative issues that are impacting the truck and off-road market. Attendees will hear about topics ranging from emissions regulations to off-road trail access, and how industry members can make their voices heard in the legislative process.  

The meeting will be followed by a networking mixer and COBB Tuning Open House, offering attendees a chance to further their connections.  

Register for the meeting here.  

To learn more about TORA membership, visit sema.org/tora. 

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA-member company employees have an exclusive opportunity to apply to reduce their student debt through the SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program. Loan forgiveness applications are open now and run through March 1, at sema.org/loan-forgiveness. 

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program issues $2,000 awards to individuals who are paying off a degree or certification from a college, university or career tech school in the United States or Canada. Applicants must be employed by a SEMA member company, demonstrate a passion for the automotive industry and have a minimum of $2,000 in student loans in order to be eligible.  

"It's SEMA's mission to help our member companies succeed and prosper, and that also means supporting the employees behind those companies so that they can focus on their careers," said Jose Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs. "We invite everyone who qualifies to apply to take advantage of this program."

SEMA Loan Forgiveness eligibility requirements and the application can be found at sema.org/loan-forgiveness. Questions can be directed to Escobar at josee@sema.org.  

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The state of California today withdrew its request for the Clean Air Act waiver needed to implement its Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulation, a significant victory for those who seek a technology-neutral approach to reducing carbon emissions. SEMA and PRI celebrate this important development, which halts an effort by California to overstep its constitutional and state statutory authority, and clears the path for the automotive aftermarket industry to continue leading the way toward cleaner, safer vehicles through innovation and American ingenuity--particularly through alternative-fuel innovations, replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions, and converting older internal-combustion-engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric- or hydrogen-powered vehicles. 

In October, SEMA and PRI filed a suit in federal court, challenging the regulation on the basis of significant constitutional questions. The lawsuit remains active as the organization considers the implications of California's action. 

SEMA and PRI now call on California to immediately cease and desist the implementation and threatened enforcement of the Advanced Clean Fleets policy, as the law is clear in regards to the state needing federal approval for its implementation. Not to mention, the policy is a clear violation of the U.S. Constitution, says SEMA Government Affairs.

"SEMA and its thousands of members in the automotive aftermarket industry are thrilled to learn of California's decision on Advanced Clean Fleets, which represents a reprieve from the significant national implications that the policy would have wrought. Advanced Clean Fleets would have crippled interstate commerce by implementing harmful EV mandates on the trucking fleets that drive our nation's economy. Now, we demand that California immediately halt its premature implementation and enforcement action already underway. The law is clear that, without its waiver, California has no foundation upon which to implement this policy," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA will continue our efforts to ensure the defeat of any shortsighted attempts to enact EV mandates, and instead champion a technology-neutral approach that rewards innovation, ingenuity and practicality." 

SEMA and PRI champion a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity. The association will continue efforts to preserve Americans' rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry's ability to design, manufacture and bring to market products that help solve the emissions challenge. 

BACKGROUND 

SEMA/PRI and The Work Truck Association (NTEA) in October  filed suit in the U.S. District Court's Eastern District of California against the California Air Resources Board (CARB), seeking immediate declaratory and injunctive relief to stop electric vehicle mandates CARB intends to implement through its ACF regulations.  

CARB's ACF regulation includes requirements that only zero-emissions vehicles (ZEVs) may cross within California's borders, regardless of which state the vehicle was purchased or registered. Vehicles covered by the regulation include everything from heavy-duty tractors with sleeper cabs to work trucks, pickup trucks and light-duty package delivery vehicles. Interstate motor carriers and others whose trucks do not comply the ACF regulation would be barred from operating within the nation's largest single-state economy for even a moment. 

In their lawsuit, SEMA/PRI and NTEA contend that CARB's actions far exceed California's constitutional and state statutory authority and will have a dire effect on an industry that historically has led the way toward cleaner, safer vehicles through innovation and American ingenuity--particularly through alternative-fuel innovations, replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions and converting older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles.

SEMA and PRI are not anti-EV organizations; rather, the organizations are steadfast in their belief that a technology-neutral approach is the best way to achieve lower vehicle emissions. By declaring one technology as the preferred solution of government, California would have kneecapped other potential solutions, regardless of their promise to deliver the results the state seeks. Now, innovators and the free market will have an opportunity to provide meaningful contributions to efforts to eliminate carbon emissions.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The state of California today withdrew its request for the Clean Air Act waiver needed to implement its Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulation, a significant victory for those who seek a technology-neutral approach to reducing carbon emissions. SEMA and PRI celebrate this important development, which halts an effort by California to overstep its constitutional and state statutory authority, and clears the path for the automotive aftermarket industry to continue leading the way toward cleaner, safer vehicles through innovation and American ingenuity--particularly through alternative-fuel innovations, replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions, and converting older internal-combustion-engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric- or hydrogen-powered vehicles. 

In October, SEMA and PRI filed a suit in federal court, challenging the regulation on the basis of significant constitutional questions. The lawsuit remains active as the organization considers the implications of California's action. 

SEMA and PRI now call on California to immediately cease and desist the implementation and threatened enforcement of the Advanced Clean Fleets policy, as the law is clear in regards to the state needing federal approval for its implementation. Not to mention, the policy is a clear violation of the U.S. Constitution, says SEMA Government Affairs.

"SEMA and its thousands of members in the automotive aftermarket industry are thrilled to learn of California's decision on Advanced Clean Fleets, which represents a reprieve from the significant national implications that the policy would have wrought. Advanced Clean Fleets would have crippled interstate commerce by implementing harmful EV mandates on the trucking fleets that drive our nation's economy. Now, we demand that California immediately halt its premature implementation and enforcement action already underway. The law is clear that, without its waiver, California has no foundation upon which to implement this policy," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA will continue our efforts to ensure the defeat of any shortsighted attempts to enact EV mandates, and instead champion a technology-neutral approach that rewards innovation, ingenuity and practicality." 

SEMA and PRI champion a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity. The association will continue efforts to preserve Americans' rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry's ability to design, manufacture and bring to market products that help solve the emissions challenge. 

BACKGROUND 

SEMA/PRI and The Work Truck Association (NTEA) in October  filed suit in the U.S. District Court's Eastern District of California against the California Air Resources Board (CARB), seeking immediate declaratory and injunctive relief to stop electric vehicle mandates CARB intends to implement through its ACF regulations.  

CARB's ACF regulation includes requirements that only zero-emissions vehicles (ZEVs) may cross within California's borders, regardless of which state the vehicle was purchased or registered. Vehicles covered by the regulation include everything from heavy-duty tractors with sleeper cabs to work trucks, pickup trucks and light-duty package delivery vehicles. Interstate motor carriers and others whose trucks do not comply the ACF regulation would be barred from operating within the nation's largest single-state economy for even a moment. 

In their lawsuit, SEMA/PRI and NTEA contend that CARB's actions far exceed California's constitutional and state statutory authority and will have a dire effect on an industry that historically has led the way toward cleaner, safer vehicles through innovation and American ingenuity--particularly through alternative-fuel innovations, replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions and converting older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles.

SEMA and PRI are not anti-EV organizations; rather, the organizations are steadfast in their belief that a technology-neutral approach is the best way to achieve lower vehicle emissions. By declaring one technology as the preferred solution of government, California would have kneecapped other potential solutions, regardless of their promise to deliver the results the state seeks. Now, innovators and the free market will have an opportunity to provide meaningful contributions to efforts to eliminate carbon emissions.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office 

The United States Senate has begun its work to evaluate President Donald Trump's cabinet selections, with a trio of nominees important to the automotive aftermarket and racing industries on Capitol Hill this week for their confirmation hearings. SEMA continues to closely monitor the hearings for former U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy (R-WI), Secretary of Transportation nominee; North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior nominee; and former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY), administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency nominee.  

Following the hearings, the Senate committee that is responsible for overseeing the department for which the nominee has been appointed will hold a vote on whether to confirm the nominee. Once approved by the committee, which simply requires a majority, the full Senate will then vote on the nomination (simple majority required for the nominee to be confirmed). 

SEMA members are encouraged to send letters of support for each of the three nominees. Use our easy online tool to send your letter now. 

Sean Duffy 

Former Rep. Sean Duffy appeared before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee to discuss his nomination to lead the Department of Transportation. In his statement prior to questioning, Wisconsin native Duffy promised to prioritize road safety, while noting that transportation is the federal issue that most impacts Americans' daily lives. 

Doug Burgum 

The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing today on North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Trump's choice to lead the Department of the Interior. Burgum is a passionate outdoor recreationist and enjoys off-roading on his side-by-side.  

Lee Zeldin 

Also today, former Rep. Lee Zeldin appeared before the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Zeldin, from New York, vowed to help stop electric vehicle mandates. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office 

The United States Senate has begun its work to evaluate President Donald Trump's cabinet selections, with a trio of nominees important to the automotive aftermarket and racing industries on Capitol Hill this week for their confirmation hearings. SEMA continues to closely monitor the hearings for former U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy (R-WI), Secretary of Transportation nominee; North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior nominee; and former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY), administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency nominee.  

Following the hearings, the Senate committee that is responsible for overseeing the department for which the nominee has been appointed will hold a vote on whether to confirm the nominee. Once approved by the committee, which simply requires a majority, the full Senate will then vote on the nomination (simple majority required for the nominee to be confirmed). 

SEMA members are encouraged to send letters of support for each of the three nominees. Use our easy online tool to send your letter now. 

Sean Duffy 

Former Rep. Sean Duffy appeared before the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee to discuss his nomination to lead the Department of Transportation. In his statement prior to questioning, Wisconsin native Duffy promised to prioritize road safety, while noting that transportation is the federal issue that most impacts Americans' daily lives. 

Doug Burgum 

The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources held a hearing today on North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Trump's choice to lead the Department of the Interior. Burgum is a passionate outdoor recreationist and enjoys off-roading on his side-by-side.  

Lee Zeldin 

Also today, former Rep. Lee Zeldin appeared before the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Zeldin, from New York, vowed to help stop electric vehicle mandates. 

By SEMA News Editors

The HOT ROD Power Tour has revealed the schedule for its 2025 tour, which will stop at five Midwest venues this June.

Scheduled for June 9-13, the traveling car show will feature more than 1,000 miles of driving, as well as drag racing, autocross and live entertainment, and attract more than 6,000 cars and trucks of all years, makes and models. Planned stops include Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Illinois, and the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

For more information, visit hotrodpowertour.us.

See the full schedule below:

• Day 1: June 9--Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Indianapolis, Indiana
• Day 2: June 10--Route 66 Raceway, Joliet, Illinois
• Day 3: June 11--Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Fort Wayne, Indiana
• Day 4: June 12--Monroe County Fairgrounds, Monroe, Michigan
• Day 5: June 13--Summit Motorsports Park, Norwalk, Ohio

This story was originally published on January 16, 2025. For more industry news, visit SEMANews.com and subscribe to SEMA News at the bottom of the webpage to get the latest updates straight to your inbox, twice a week.

By SEMA News Editors

Derek Chang Named President and CEO of Liberty Media

Derek Chang has been named the president and CEO of Liberty Media, the parent company of Formula 1.

Chang, a director of Liberty Media since March 2021, is a veteran executive across the global media, sports and entertainment industries. He has led corporate development and investment teams at prominent companies during various stages of growth including EverPass Media, the NBA, DIRECTV, Scripps, Charter and TCI.

Chang will start in his new role on February 1. John Malone, chairman of Liberty Media, will serve as interim CEO until that time. Chang will join the executive committee of the Liberty Media Board with John Malone, Vice Chairman Dob Bennett and Chase Carey. Additionally, Stefano Domenicali, president and CEO of Formula 1, will report to a committee of the Liberty Media board comprised of Bennett, Carey and Chang.

For more information, visit libertymedia.com.

USAC Appoints Don Hawk as Silver Crown Series Director

Speedway, Indiana-based United States Auto Club (USAC) has appointed Don Hawk as the new series director for the USAC Silver Crown Division, effective immediately.

Hawk's extensive background includes a role as president of Dale Earnhardt Inc., director of regional racing development for NASCAR, chief racing development officer and executive vice president for Speedway Motorsports Inc., and most recently, the CEO of SRX.

As series director, Hawk will oversee all aspects of the division's operations, working closely with competitors, promoters and sponsors to ensure continued growth and success.

For more information, visit usacracing.com.

Russ O'Blenes to Lead New Cadillac Formula 1 Power Units Venture

TWG Motorsports and General Motors today announced the formation of GM Performance Power Units LLC, a new company that will build Formula 1 vehicles and power units by the end of the decade, making Cadillac a "full works" team.

Industry veteran Russ O'Blenes has been named CEO of the new venture, which will build powertrains for the Cadillac Formula 1 team that will be on the grid in 2026.

With more than 30 years of motor racing engineering experience, O'Blenes is currently director of the GM Motorsports Propulsion and Performance team. He also previously led development of the GM Performance and Racing Center in Pontiac, Michigan, and the commercialization of the brand's eCrate initiative for performance car builders and EV enthusiasts.

Development and testing of the team's Formula 1 prototype engine technology is already underway, according to the company. Plans are in place to open a dedicated facility for Performance Power Units LLC near GM's Charlotte Technical Center in 2026. As previously announced, the Cadillac Formula 1 Team will utilize Ferrari power units until the GM engines are approved for racing use.

For more information, visit Cadillac.com.

41-Race ASCS National Tour Features New Stops, Marquee Events

Photo courtesy of Emily Schwanke, ASCS

A new era in American Sprint Car Series (ASCS) history begins in 2025 with a 41-race national tour schedule, highlighted by new tracks and marquee 360 Sprint Car events.

The season starts Thursday–Saturday, January 30–February 1, at Volusia Speedway Park (Florida) for the opening nights of the 54th Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals and concludes Friday–Saturday, November 14–15, with Fuzzy's Fall Fling at Creek County Speedway. Thirty-six dates on the new calendar are confirmed, leaving more announcements to come for the other six events.

Tickets to all 41 events of the 2025 ASCS National Tour can be purchased at the gate on race day. Those who cannot attend in person can watch live coverage on DIRTVision.

View the complete 2025 ASCS National Tour schedule online here. Read the full article on the ASCS Racing website here. 

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA has opened submissions for speakers for the 2025 SEMA Show, which will take place in Las Vegas on November 4–7, 2025. Innovative thought leaders and dynamic presenters who can share new skills and trends targeted at the automotive aftermarket are invited to apply at semashow.com/speakers.

Organizers are seeking experts who can facilitate new ideas, technologies and expertise at sessions that will help industry members take their businesses and careers to the next level.

Educational sessions are one of the key pillars of the SEMA Show, where thousands of industry professionals convene to learn new business strategies and best practices. The SEMA Show education program provides relevant, engaging and inspiring information on the industry's complex issues and topics.

Topics of focus for 2025 include:

• Aftermarket updates and future trends.
• Emerging and executive leadership.
• Legislative and regulatory.
• Sales and marketing.
• Small-business strategy.
• Vehicle technology.
• Industry segment-specific topics.

Speaker proposals for the 2025 SEMA Show must be submitted by January 31, 2025, at semashow.com/speakers.

For more details, contact Gary Vigil, SEMA senior manager of professional development, at garyv@sema.org or 909-978-6738.