By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office 

Christian Robinson (left), SEMA senior director of state government affairs and grassroots, and Greg Adler, president and CEO of Offroad Warehouse, accept the Stephen B. McDonald Lawmaker of the Year Award on behalf of Rep. John Carson, who could not travel to the 2024 SEMA Show due to the 2024 election.

SEMA is excited to announce Georgia State Rep. John Carson, a Republican representing the Atlanta suburbs in District 46, as winner of the 2024 Stephen B. McDonald Lawmaker of the Year Award. Rep. Carson was honored for his outstanding leadership in passing SB 352, legislation that modernizes Georgia's vehicle suspension modification laws.  

The Stephen B. McDonald Lawmaker of the Year Award--presented to Rep. Carson at the 2024 SEMA Show--is one of SEMA's highest honors, given annually to a state lawmaker who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in supporting and protecting the rights of automotive businesses, consumers and enthusiasts. The award is named after Stephen B. McDonald, a long-time SEMA advocate who dedicated his career to advancing pro-industry policies and helps recognize lawmakers who champion legislation that strengthens the specialty automotive industry. 

Rep. Carson's work on SB 352 was a significant victory for Georgia's automotive aftermarket industry. The bill replaced the state's outdated and ambiguous suspension-modification limit, which had capped changes at a 2-in. height difference based on the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation. The new law provides a more transparent, consistent standard by measuring vehicle height from the ground to the frame. This reform has eliminated confusion among car owners and law enforcement, creating a more transparent regulatory environment protecting automotive enthusiasts and businesses specializing in vehicle customization. 

Rep. Carson's work on SB 352 highlights his commitment to creating a fair and transparent regulatory environment for the automotive aftermarket. Key industry leaders supported his efforts, including Fox Factory and Offroad Warehouse, who significantly advocated for the bill's passage. 

Christian Robinson, SEMA senior director of state government affairs and grassroots, praised Carson's leadership. "Rep. Carson's commitment to supporting our industry and ensuring fair laws for automotive enthusiasts and businesses is truly commendable," said Robinson. "His leadership on SB 352 is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when lawmakers listen to their constituents and work to improve the regulatory environment. This law brings clarity and fairness to vehicle modification rules and strengthens Georgia's position as a hub for the specialty automotive industry." 

The economic impact of SEMA's members in Georgia is substantial. The aftermarket industry contributes significantly to the state's economy, with a total economic output of $11.63 billion, supporting nearly 50,000 jobs and contributing $1.39 billion in taxes. This underscores the vital role of SEMA and its members in driving economic growth in Georgia's automotive sector. 

Rep. Carson has been a dedicated public servant in the Georgia House of Representatives since winning a special election in 2011 to represent District 46, covering parts of Cobb and Cherokee counties north of Atlanta. Carson has been known throughout his tenure for his focus on transportation, tax reform and public safety.  

Beyond his legislative achievements, Carson is also a certified public accountant (CPA) with extensive experience in the financial services industry. He leverages his professional background to advocate for fiscal responsibility in state government, focusing on policies that spur economic development while lowering the tax burden for Georgia's citizens and businesses. 

For more information on SEMA's advocacy initiatives and how to get involved, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

Bishop Innovations Introduces New HOZEEZ Mailer Box for Retail Display, Direct Shipment

Bishop Innovations has introduced a new retail package for its HOZEEZ car wash accessories.

The new package is a dual-purpose corrugated mailer box used for in-store display and direct mail to customers. Each box contains four HOZEEZ hose guides and includes informative graphics--showing use applications, advantages and patented features--on all six sides.

For more information, visit bishopinnovations.com.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2024 SEMA Show was a success as the four-day event featured the latest automotive innovations and trending brands, concluding on a high note with the second-ever SEMA Fest concert festival on Friday, November 8. 

SEMA Fest pass holders were thrilled by dynamic motorsports activations like electrifying burnouts and stunts at the OPTIMA Village. The festival's stellar musical lineup, featuring Petey, Fitz And The Tantrums, Sublime and Cage The Elephant, brought vibrant energy, making it an unforgettable finale to the event. 

Relive the best of the 2024 SEMA Fest with the photo gallery below:

The festivities began with thrilling activations in the OPTIMA Village at SEMA Fest.

Petey opened the 2024 SEMA Fest with their unique alt-pop and rock sound.

The lounge area allowed SEMA Fest VIP pass holders the chance to rest and recharge while enjoying music.
 

Multi-platinum artists Fitz And The Tantrums brought a dancefloor-ready bounce to the SEMA Fest crowd.

The motorsports activations continued into the evening with daring stunts in the OPTIMA Village at the 2024 SEMA Fest.

This year's SEMA Fest was once again crowded with fans excited to enjoy an evening of music.

The wildly popular Long Beach, California, reggae-punk/alternative rock group Sublime brought the energy to their performance at the 2024 SEMA Fest.

The crowd at SEMA Fest enjoyed an evening of spectacular music and stunning motorsports activations.

The 2024 SEMA Fest crowds were dancing along to the music throughout the evening, leading up to the headliners Sublime and Cage The Elephant.

Grammy-winning Cage The Elephant closed SEMA Fest with their uncompromising creativity and wildly cathartic performance.

Subscribe to SEMA News with the "Stay Tuned" widget below and claim your complimentary subscription to SEMA Magazine here for more SEMA Show recaps and new details on next year's event.

By Ashley Reyes

Young enthusiasts are an important part of the automotive specialty-equipment industry. According to the "2024 SEMA Market Report," half of those modifying their cars and trucks are under the age of 40, and people grow less likely to buy aftermarket parts as they get older.

"There's a popular misperception that younger generations aren't into personalizing their cars," said SEMA Market Research Director Gavin Knapp. "However, our research shows that young accessorizers are still crazy about their vehicles, although the way they interact and modify them looks different than it did years ago."

Modifying vehicles gives young people an outlet to express who they are and gives them projects to share with their friends. Social media has also impacted the way the younger generation views and enjoys vehicles, whether it be posting their projects for their followers or following influencers to see their latest builds and products of choice. Aftermarket companies can benefit, both in sales and brand loyalty, by working with social-media influencers to target younger audiences and aligning their business strategies to meet the needs of customers across all age groups.

Where Accessorizers Are Buying Parts

Online shopping is a mainstay for purchasing parts across all ages; however, accessorizers under 40 are more likely to order online and pick up or install their parts in-store compared to older consumers.

In 2023, 20% of parts purchased were ordered online and picked up in-store by accessorizers under 40. This highlights the importance of immediacy and convenience for young buyers who want their parts in hand as quickly as possible. 

What Parts Accessorizers Are Buying

Young accessorizers are more likely to purchase wheels, lighting, and appearance products. In 2023, 28% of vehicles that were modified with wheel and tire products belonged to accessorizers aged 16-29, and 24% to those aged 30-39. Additionally, 19% of vehicles that were modified with lighting products were made by accessorizers under 40.

While all age groups personalize and buy parts, young enthusiasts are also often more willing to look for products to make complex, under-the-hood performance upgrades.

What Types of Vehicles Accessorizers Own

Younger modifiers are more likely to own passenger cars, such as Honda Civics, Ford Mustangs, or Subaru BRZs, which may be less expensive to buy or available as a hand-me-down.

The share of CUVs within the U.S. fleet is also increasing, making it important for the industry to offer CUV parts and accessories for owners to personalize their vehicles. Both CUVs and pickups are popular vehicle segments for older accessorizers who may be looking for more utility and willing to pay higher costs of purchasing.

What This Means for the Industry

Understanding customization trends among consumers is essential for businesses to remain competitive. By embracing this information, businesses can position themselves for long-term growth and meet the needs of diverse customers across the entire age spectrum.

SEMA's Market Research team is dedicated to providing members and the broader automotive specialty-equipment industry with information to make better business decisions. While their primary focus is developing research reports on the industry and consumers, they are always happy to answer questions about the industry.

SEMA business members can download the complete "2024 SEMA Market Report" at sema.org/research.

For additional questions, contact SEMA Market Research Director Gavin Knapp at Gavink@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Penske Entertainment Acquires Grand Prix Association of Long Beach

Penske Entertainment, owner of INDYCAR and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, has acquired the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach from longtime owner Gerald R. Forsythe. The association administers the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, the longest-running major street circuit in North America.

The purchase is expected to provide significant investment for the marquee NTT INDYCAR SERIES race, to further enhance the event, the company said in a statement announcing the acquisition.

"We're incredibly proud to be the new stewards of this cherished and iconic event," said Roger Penske. "This is the most historic and prestigious street circuit race in North America, and we're excited to work with [Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach President and CEO] Jim Michaelian and his great team in Long Beach to ensure continued success and growth over the long term. This race and its loyal fans matter so much to everyone across the INDYCAR community, and we're looking forward to a very special 50th-anniversary celebration this April, as well."

Working alongside the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach team, Penske Entertainment plans to invest in bolstering and enhancing the experience for race fans, sponsors and hospitality customers.

For more information, visit indycar.com or gplb.com.

WIMNA Partners With Bell Racing Helmets, IMS for Taylor Swift-Inspired Racing Helmet Sweepstakes

Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA) has partnered with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) and Bell Racing Helmets  to create 12 custom helmets inspired by Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour.

Eleven of the custom helmets were auctioned to support WIMNA's mission--to create more opportunities for women in motorsports--but one helmet will be given away in a sweepstakes, open now through December 13.

Those registered to attend the 2024 PRI Show, and the Women with Drive IV Summit, held in Indianapolis ahead of the 2024 PRI Show, can see the remaining helmet at the Bell Racing Helmet booth #1913.

This collaboration, supported by WIMNA, and the following female drivers, including Tatiana Calderon, Jamie Chadwick, Courtney Crone, Sabré Cook, Ashley Freiberg, Pippa Mann, Taylor Reimer, Isabella Robusto, Amanda Sorensen and WIMNA co-founder Lyn St. James, aims to raise awareness and encourage women's participation in all areas of motorsport.

Each helmet, wrapped by local artists Hurricane Designs, represents a different era of Taylor Swift's music and was brought to life by the IMS design team: Lucy Laux, Shae Beechler, Mandy Walsh, Chloie Fisher, Caden Elzy and Grace Keller.

All proceeds will go to support WIMNA to create more opportunities for women in motorsports.

Click here for more information or to enter the sweepstakes.

Southern All Stars Super Late Model Series Under New Ownership

The Coltman Farms Racing Southern All Stars Super Late Model Series is now under new ownership.

A group of investors--led by longtime racer and promoter Ray Cook--has recently purchased the series from Matt Wagner. Wagner has owned the regional tour, founded in 1983 by National Dirt Late Model Hall of Famer B.J. Parker, since 2012.

The new ownership is currently developing a schedule for the 2025 race season with approximately 25 races expected to appear on the calendar, including the already confirmed season-opener, scheduled for Saturday, January 25, at I-75 Raceway in Sweetwater, Tennessee.

Any tracks interested in hosting a SAS event in 2025 can contact Cook at 828-360-5353.

More news and information regarding the 2025 season will be announced at a later date.

For more information, visit sasdirt.com.

Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series Announces 2025 Schedule

The Red Line Synthetic Oil Professional Drag Racers Association (PDRA) has revealed its 2025 event schedule.

The series will return to the six racetracks it visited in 2024, starting at GALOT Motorsports Park in Benson, North Carolina, and finishing at Virginia Motorsports Park in North Dinwiddie, Virginia.

The 2025 Red Line Oil PDRA season will kick off at GALOT Motorsports Park on April 2-5, and will conclude on October 2-5 at Virginia Motorsports Park.

PDRA officials will have additional announcements and news regarding the 2025 season during the 2024 PRI Show, December 12-14, in Indianapolis, Indiana, along with crowning the series champions during the Red Line Oil PDRA Awards Banquet on Friday, December 13, at the Indianapolis Downtown Marriott.

For more information, visit pdra660.com.

See the full 2025 Red Line Oil PDRA schedule below:

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 a few of the latest postings.

Mishimoto

Senior Digital Media Manager in Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania

Mishimoto, a provider of performance cooling products, is seeking a senior digital media manager to promote the Push the Limits lifestyle brand. The selected candidate will strategize and implement digital advertising campaigns across multiple Mishimoto channels, including email, SMS, social media, search platforms and marketplaces.

ECUMaster USA

Product Assembly and Fulfillment Specialist in Garland, Texas

ECUMaster USA is seeking a motivated individual to assemble products and fulfill orders at company headquarters in Garland, Texas. Product assembly will include working with wiring and connectors, circuit boards, 3D printing and packaging.

Street Dreams CNY

Automotive Upholsterer in Syracuse, New York

Street Dreams CNY currently has three available positions available for experienced automotive upholsterers. Selected candidates will work closely with customers to offer expert advice and guidance and to ensure the final product aligns with the customer's vision. Experience working with a diverse range of vehicles and upholstery styles is highly valued.

VP Racing

Business Development Executive, Commercial Sales in San Antonio, Texas

VP Racing is searching for a results-oriented business development sales executive to take full ownership of the sales cycle, from lead generation to closing, while developing and executing strategic sales plans. The ideal candidate is highly motivated, has strong leadership skills, enjoys the challenge of penetrating new markets and excels in building relationships with key decision-makers.

By SEMA News Editors

Malco Automotive Unveils Rebrand, Announces New Products

Malco Automotive, the detailing and car care product provider, has undergone a company-wide rebrand and introduced four new products.

The refresh was unveiled at the 2024 SEMA Show and includes a new brand identity and new packaging for Malco Automotive products.

"Malco's new branding is the culmination of four generations of family ownership and more than 70 years in business," said Malco President Seth Glauberman. "Our team has worked remarkably hard to do its legacy justice, and we couldn't be happier with the final product. This refresh showcases our dedication to preserving the Malco name while also continuing to innovate and create high-performance products for today's detailers."

Malco also introduced four new additions to its product line at the 2024 SEMA Show:

• SLIK SiO2 Paint Protectant Spray: Spray-on drying agent, paint protectant and gloss amplifier that can be applied wet or dry to all exterior vehicle surfaces.
• VELOCITY One-Step Polish and Wax: Combines polishing and protective waxing in a single formula.
• IRON BLASTER 2.0: A low-odor spray formulated to remove tough iron contaminants from vehicle paint and baked-on metallic brake pad deposits on wheels.
• EPIC ASCEND Ceramic Coating: Provides a professional-grade ceramic barrier that enhances gloss and protects against environmental contaminants.

For more information, visit malcoautomotive.com.

Ben O'Connor Becomes Total Seal Vice President Sales & Marketing

Ben O'Connor has been promoted to vice president of sales and marketing of Total Seal, the Phoenix-based piston ring manufacturer.

In his expanded role, O'Connor will guide the marketing direction and lead sales efforts at Total Seal. O'Connor has more than 40 years of experience in both sales and marketing, previously working for Klein Engines, Bear Brake Systems and Impact Racing,

"Total Seal is happy to have O'Connor's extensive skills, industry experience and network of contacts poised to play a crucial role in propelling the company's success forward," said Matt Hartford, CEO of Total Seal.

For more information, visit totalseal.com.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association Welcomes $400M Commitment to National Right to Repair 

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has welcomed an announcement from Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers detailing a $400-million annual investment to advance Right to Repair (R2R) across industries in the country.

Building on the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Law of 2021, Australia's landmark automotive R2R legislation, this new commitment marks a pivotal step in creating a truly competitive and consumer-friendly repair landscape across all sectors, the association said.

"This announcement is a tremendous boost to consumer rights, business efficiency and national productivity," said AAAA CEO Stuart Charity. "The Motor Vehicle Service and Repair law transformed the automotive sector by guaranteeing independent access to essential repair information, and now this federal investment will broaden those benefits. A robust Right to Repair framework increases productivity by reducing repair wait times, cutting down costs, and encouraging a dynamic marketplace that drives efficiency and innovation."

In his upcoming meeting with state and territory officials, Chalmers plans to discuss key R2R reforms alongside adopting trusted international product safety standards. These reforms are projected to deliver significant economic benefits, including an estimated $400 million annually in R2R-related productivity gains, as they streamline access to repairs and boost economic dynamism.

For more information, visit aaaa.com.au.

VIP Tires & Service Opens New Location in Barre, Vermont

VIP Tires & Service has opened its 74th location in Barre, Vermont.

The new location, which opened on November 8, is the sixth location in the state, with other Vermont VIP Tires & Services stories in Burlington, Shelburne, Williston, Rutland and Bennington. The new location sells tires, as well as a full range of automotive services, and is staffed with ASE- and Tire Industry Association-certified professionals. The Barre store is managed by Nick Haskins and employs eight employees, with plans to eventually employ a team of 12.  

Formerly a Volkswagen-Mazda dealership, the approximately 13,000-sq.-ft. building in Barre has been renovated by VIP Tires & Service to include a remodeled customer lounge, an expanded shop with new equipment and the conversion of office spaces into a dedicated tire storage area. The shop is outfitted with eight service bays.  

For more information, visit vipauto.com.

Got company news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

Ferrari Roma Successor Spotted Testing in Italy

SEMA News sources recently spotted the successor to the Ferrari Roma, which is on track for a typical five-year production run and is nearing the end of its lifecycle after its introduction in 2019.

Although Ferrari hasn't officially announced a successor, these shots confirm that a new model is in development, which may carry a different name.

According to sources, Ferrari trademarked "Amalfi" and "Amalfi Spider"--names that evoke Italy's Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Campania region--about a year ago.

As the Ferrari Roma was also named after an Italian city, many speculate that Amalfi could be the logical name for its successor. However, Ferrari has historically used place names across its lineup, so "Ferrari Amalfi" or "Amalfi Spider" could appear in a different segment altogether.

Ferrari has also filed trademarks for other Italian place names, including "Mugello," "Milano," and "Montecarlo," hinting at even more Italy-inspired names for future models.

Kia EV2 Breaks Cover In Germany With Boxy Look

Although not officially announced, Kia is expanding its lineup of electric vehicles with the EV2, which was recently spotted undergoing tests in Europe.

New photos from SEMA News sources show the EV2 in camouflage with visible roof rails, although the full design is still under wraps. Sized just below the EV3, the EV2 is set to fill a gap in Kia's lineup following Hyundai's introduction of the budget-friendly electric Inster in Europe and Asia. Kia is expected to release the EV2 as an affordable yet versatile SUV, an area previously served by the e-Soul.

The EV2 will come with all-electric powertrains and two battery options, with the top model offering an estimated 250 miles of range, according to sources. Fast charging will also be a priority, with a target to charge the battery from 10 to 80 percent in roughly 30 minutes.

Kia plans to unveil the EV2 in the latter half of 2025. Production will be based in Slovakia, marking another step in Kia's commitment to expanding its electric offerings globally.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Jenni Arnold, owner of Badgerland Offroad, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Arnold in her interview with SEMA News below.                                      

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?  

Jenni Arnold: We have been in business for five years. What I enjoy most is helping my customers learn about their 4x4 and watching them grow, as well as watching their 4x4 become everything they wanted.

SN: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?  

JA: Being a woman in the off-road industry has its own challenges. But owning a business requires a lot of balance between all aspects of the behind-the-scenes work, constant learning about industry needs, vehicles and what customers want, as well as making customers happy, and taking time away to spend with family and take a break. Business ownership is a 24-hour job.

SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?  

JA: I have been in the industry on and off for 20-plus years. My first industry job at 18 years old was a service writer for a small independent automotive repair shop.

SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?  

JA: Honesty, ambition and hard work. These qualities have allowed me to advance and progress in working towards my dreams. I was born and raised to be an honest, kind, empathetic person, and I use these qualities through my daily life, including my work.

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments? 

JA: My biggest challenge is proving myself as a woman and that I do have the knowledge that my customers seek. This has also been my biggest accomplishment. Customers know that they can talk to me and ask me questions and chances are, I have that answer. I don't know everything, and I will research it all day to give them what they need.

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?    

JA: My role model and mentor would be my husband. He has worked so hard his entire life as a professional auto technician and has taught me so much. He challenges me every day. He gives me advice professionally. He always keeps me levelheaded and has me thinking outside of the box.

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?  

JA: My best career advice came from several other shop owners. They all said the same thing: take the leap and jump in and open your own shop. There is never a perfect time; you just have to do it. We took the advice, found a place to open shop, quit our full-time jobs and never looked back. I believe this in my personal life and professionally. Life is too short; fulfill those dreams!

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?  

JA: I always wanted to work in the automotive field. I started taking automotive classes and auto-body classes when I was in high school at 14 years old. I wanted to become an auto mechanic but at that time, women in the industry were almost unheard of and looked down on. But here I am, a shop owner! My passion for the automotive and off-road industries keeps me here.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has named Spencer Scala, sales lead at MARS of Billings, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Scala in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling?  

Spencer Scala: My wife. I was working a retail shoe sales job when she heard MARS/Devon was hiring. She knew I would be happier doing what I love, which is the car/truck industry. One of the first weeks I started, I got asked to go work a car show. I knew then I was home.

SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO?  

SC: Dealing with dealerships is one of my primary responsibilities. The effort that PRO is making to help with aftermarket/OEM relationships is huge. Each side of this market needs each other to make sure people of all walks of life can enjoy their vehicles, so anything to help that movement is something I could get behind.

SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?  

SC: Be passionate. People love vehicles, plain and simple. When you can show and share the passion you have for vehicles with customers, endless relationships can be built.

SN: What is your dream vehicle?  

SC: I have two very different vehicles on the top of a very long list. First is a '68 Mustang Fastback with a pro-touring chassis and suspension, and a fuel-injected, supercharged Ford 427. The other is a true '92 Nissan Silvia lowered with mild bolt-ons. I'd have a warehouse if I had the funds.

SN: What is the best advice you have ever received?  

SC: One day while venting about something that had gone wrong, my father told me something: failure and success go hand in hand. You cannot have one without the other. They build upon each other to help a person grow.

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

SC: My passion for vehicles and love for helping people design and build their projects to reality. I have been a vehicle enthusiast since I was a little kid. Doing what I love with other amazing people in our company and in our industry keeps me excited to come back each and every day.

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

SC: Doing yard work, hanging out with the family, taking my son to local car meets or working at MARS.

Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on PRO's social media, SEMA News and future PRO-member updates.