By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors can expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence through the exclusive Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program, which is now open at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list is designed for builders looking to collaborate and seek product offers straight from confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors.

Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly with the provided contact information. All product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder, with each project vehicle on display at the SEMA Show required to be supported by a current 2025 SEMA Show exhibitor.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2025 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

Qualified builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2025 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, as it is updated when submissions come in.

Note: Submissions appear on a first-come, first-served basis. The Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used by exhibitors to participate in the program; email submissions will not be included in the list. Participation in the list does not guarantee product or vehicle placement at the 2025 SEMA Show. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to confirm the builder is affiliated with and working on a vehicle that will be on display at the SEMA Show. For more information about the list, contact Laura Pitts at projectvehicles@sema.org or call 949-373-9210.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is hosting a virtual General Membership Meeting on Wednesday, September 17, at 11:00 a.m. PDT/2:00 p.m. EDT, during which select-committee leaders will share updates about PRO's member benefits. 

The meeting is open to current and prospective members and is an opportunity to discover resources designed to help automotive restylers succeed in the specialty-equipment industry. Attendees will hear about events, volunteer opportunities, and other resources aimed at supporting business and professional growth.  

The meeting will also include updates about the PRO Cup Challenge and other PRO events taking place at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, in Las Vegas.   

PRO membership is open to all SEMA member companies serving the restyling and accessory markets--including manufacturers, warehouse distributors or restylers and installers. If this sounds like you, don't miss this opportunity to take action in the industry and grow your network by getting more involved.  

Register here.  

By Ashley Reyes

Time is running out to submit nominations for the 2025 Council & Network Awards that honor the unwavering passion, dedication and innovative spirit that drives the automotive aftermarket industry.

Presented during the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 4–7, these awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of council and network members and honor leading companies and individuals who have made a significant impact in their respective industry segments.  

Nominations are open in the following categories until Monday, September 1:  

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO): Business of the Year, Person of the Year. 
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN): Engineer of the Year. 
• Future Leaders Network (FLN): Professional of the Year Award, Vanguard Award.  
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA): Business of the Year, Hall of Fame, Industry Recognition Award. (Entries for HRIA's Design and Engineering Award and Evolution of Hot Rodding Award will open closer to the SEMA Show). 
• Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC): Hall of Fame
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO): Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement Award, Manufacturer of the Year, Nat Danas Person of the Year, Restyler of the Year.  
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN): Member Impact Award, #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year Award. 
• Truck & Off-Road Industry Alliance (TORA): Hall of Fame, Jessi Combs Ambassador Award, Retailer of the Year.  
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC): Business of the Year, Hall of Fame, Person of the Year.  

Award winners will be announced at each council and network's respective SEMA Show reception, which brings together influential industry leaders and members within each segment of the automotive aftermarket. Nominate today!  

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors who will have breaking news announcements at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, and would like to be included in the official 2025 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule can submit a press conference application here.

Exhibitors that do want to be included in the official SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule have until Friday, September 5, to submit an application and be included in all SEMA Show press conference communications.

After submitting an application, exhibitors will receive an automatic email confirming that the application was received. Those who do not receive the automatic email may have experienced a technical problem and are encouraged to email pr@sema.org for assistance.

To learn more about other strategies and tools thar are available to exhibitors to promote their conference and reach media covering the SEMA Show, download the SEMA Show Public Relations Opportunities Guide.

By SEMA News Editors

Mario Andretti to Kick Off 2025 PRI Show

Motorsports icon Mario Andretti will be the featured guest at the 2025 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show Grand Opening Breakfast, a time-honored tradition that officially kicks off the world's largest gathering of motorsports professionals. The breakfast takes place Thursday, December 11, at the Indiana Convention Center.

The PRI Show is the ultimate marketplace for motorsports innovation, featuring more than 1,000 exhibiting companies and tens of thousands of attendees from across the globe. From manufacturers and builders to track operators and race teams, the Show is a hub for dealmaking, discovery and community.

Andretti will join motorsports broadcaster Ralph Sheheen for a candid Q&A session that promises to inspire and energize the industry. Andretti's attendance is made possible by The MagnaFlow Group.

"The Grand Opening Breakfast is more than a welcome; it's our launchpad," said PRI President Michael Good. "Mario is not only one of the most iconic and accomplished drivers in motorsports history, but he also embodies the passion, innovation and competitive spirit that our industry thrives on. His story will inspire everyone in the room as we kick off the PRI Show."

Andretti's career is a masterclass in excellence, versatility and longevity. From winning the Formula 1 World Championship in 1978 and the IndyCar National Championship four times, to capturing victories at the Indianapolis 500, Daytona 500, the 12 Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of LeMans, his name is etched into the history of nearly every major motorsports discipline. Beyond the track, he has translated his competitive spirit into thriving business ventures that continue to engage fans and fuel the racing community.

"I've spent my life chasing speed and pushing boundaries," said Andretti. "The PRI Show is where the future of racing is shaped, and I'm honored to help officially kick it off surrounded by the very heartbeat of the industry."

Racing fuels economic growth in communities nationwide, as highlighted by the recent "PRI Motorsports Economic Impact Study." This groundbreaking report shows that the motorsports industry generates more than $69.2 billion annually for the U.S. economy, sustains more than 318,000 jobs, and accounts for $22.1 billion in wages and benefits.

The PRI Show is a catalyst for that continued growth, bringing together innovators, businesses and industry leaders from across the motorsports landscape to drive collaboration, showcase breakthrough technologies and reinforce the economic vitality of the sport.

"Mario Andretti's journey mirrors the entrepreneurial spirit we see across the PRI Show floor, from startups to legacy brands," said PRI Show Director Karin Davidson. "His perspective connects with our community in a way that's deeply personal and professionally meaningful."

"With MagnaFlow's heritage in race exhaust and now Camburg's expertise in race suspension, The MagnaFlow Group is proud to have Mario represent us at PRI and speak to the racing community," said Richard Waitas, spokesperson for The MagnaFlow Group. "His legacy of performance and precision mirrors our commitment to empowering racers and builders at every level."

Doors to the Grand Opening Breakfast open at 6:30 a.m. EST, and the program begins at 7:30 a.m. EST. The breakfast is free to all PRI attendees, but guests are advised to arrive early as seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

The PRI Show draws attendees from all 50 states and around the globe, including race teams, retailers, engine builders, fabricators, media and more. Early registration ensures attendees receive their credentials in advance—starting in October—saving time and avoiding lines at the Show.

To register, book hotel accommodations and learn more about the 2025 PRI Show, visit PRI2025.com/Attend.

Best In The Desert, Unlimited Off-Road Racing Form the American Off-Road Racing Championship

Best In The Desert (BITD) and Unlimited Off-Road Racing (UNLTD) announced today the formation of a new national points series: the American Off-Road Racing Championship, launching in 2026.

The announcement merges the two desert racing organizations, streamlining competition and delivering greater value to racers and sponsors in the off-road industry, according to series officials.

Additionally, the two organizations will close out the 2025 season together with a combined championship finale at the Laughlin Desert Classic, October 15–19, in Laughlin, Nevada. By consolidating both races, the organizations eliminate scheduling conflicts, reduce logistical strain on teams and concentrate sponsor exposure--delivering a stronger and more efficient close to the season, officials from both series said.

The 2026 American Off-Road Racing Championship will feature events drawn from both the BITD and UNLTD calendars. The season will kick off with The Parker 400 in January, with additional dates and locations to be announced in the coming weeks.

The two organizations are actively co-developing a standardized competition framework that includes the following:

• Master Schedule: A unified calendar to eliminate date conflicts, streamline logistics and maximize racer participation.
• Unified Rulebook: A single rulebook, class structure and numbering system to ensure consistency and transparency across all events.
• Standardized Tech Inspection: Unified procedures across all events to simplify prep and reduce friction at race sites.
• Consistent Points System: A shared championship structure that rewards performance across the full season.

For more information, visit unlimitedoffroadracing.com and bitd.com.

O'Reilly Auto Parts Named Title Sponsor of NASCAR's Secondary Series

O'Reilly Auto Parts, the automotive replacement parts retailer headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, has been named the title sponsor of NASCAR's secondary series, currently known as the NASCAR Xfinity Series, as part of a multi-year agreement.

The multi-dimensional sponsorship also includes promotional opportunities and brand integrations in partnership with The CW Network, the exclusive broadcast home of the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.

The NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series will officially debut on January 1, 2026, and marks the fourth entitlement sponsorship in the series' history. The company has previously supported the sanctioning body through race sponsorships across multiple series.

For more information, visit nascar.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Quick Polls are opportunities for the industry to give us feedback on current topics and help drive the work that SEMA does. We work better with input from our members.

Will you help us understand the benefits landscape? Please take our latest three-to-five-minute SEMA Quick Poll. 

This short poll will help us get a pulse check on the market, and we will report the findings back here in a few weeks. The quick poll will only take a few minutes and it will help us understand your insights into key topics. 

Click the button below or click HERE to take the SEMA Quick Poll.

Also, check out our latest industry report, the "2025 SEMA Market Report," for the latest data on the size and scope of the specialty-equipment market.  You can access all our market research reports at: www.sema.org/research.

Your answers to a SEMA Quick Poll are anonymous and will only be reported as combined totals with all other responses. We appreciate your support for our efforts to better understand the market. 

By SEMA News Editors

Ford, Honda, Mopar/Stellantis, Nissan and Toyota are set to ignite Las Vegas this November 4-7.

Ford Performance Parts & Accessories shared plans to highlight its Ford Custom Garage packages at the 2025 SEMA Show. Pictured here is last year's Ford booth at the SEMA Show.

The aftermarket industry is gearing up for an unforgettable experience at the 2025 SEMA Show, taking place November 4-7 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. With more than 2,000 exhibiting companies, including hundreds of first-time participants, this year's event promises to be the most dynamic and expansive yet. 

Among the thousands of exhibitors are iconic automakers Ford, Honda, Mopar/Stellantis, Nissan, and Toyota, each bringing a unique vision and product lineup to the SEMA Show floor. 

"Having Ford, Honda, Mopar/Stellantis, Nissan, and Toyota at the 2025 SEMA Show is a testament to the strength and diversity of the automotive industry," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "These brands are not only leaders in innovation and performance, but they also represent the passion and creativity that drive the aftermarket community. Their presence will elevate the Show and inspire attendees from around the globe." 

The Ford Performance Parts & Accessories team plans to highlight its Ford Custom Garage packages focused on Ford Performance, featuring exclusive previews of upcoming packages designed for enhanced performance and customization. Attendees will be able to explore the brand's performance accessories tailored for the F-150 Raptor R, alongside its lineup of engines. "Our participation at SEMA allows us to connect directly with enthusiasts and showcase how our engineered performance and innovative accessories empower customers to customize their driving experience," said Kim Mathers, global director, accessories and performance parts. "It's where passion meets precision, perfectly aligning with our mission: Engineered to Perform. Designed to Customize." 

Mopar/Stellantis teased new "surprises" for its 2025 SEMA Show booth this year, which will follow its headline-making Plymouth GTX electromod and Ram concepts from last year's event, seen here.

After making headlines last year with its Plymouth GTX electromod and Ram concepts, Mopar/Stellantis will return to the SEMA Show with other surprises. "Without a doubt, SEMA continues to be a must-attend event for our Mopar team," said Darren Bradshaw, senior vice president of Mopar North America. "There is no better place to show off and gain valuable feedback on our latest concept vehicles and hundreds of quality-tested, factory-backed performance parts and accessories from the industry's most influential customers."   

As it did at last year's SEMA Show, Nissan will continue its tradition of unveiling inspiring concept vehicles at the SEMA Show by focusing on both its Nissan and Infiniti brands this year.

Nissan will continue its tradition of unveiling inspiring concept vehicles at the SEMA Show by focusing on both its Nissan and Infiniti brands this year. "Nissan North America and Infiniti Americas are teaming up once again for an exciting display to the 2025 SEMA Show. This year, attendees can expect everything from an SUV that delivers next-level off-road capability to a high-powered Infiniti performance build," said Casey Kilmer, manager of Nissan partnerships, activations and auto shows. "Adding to the excitement, we're bringing more of what attendees want--more accessories, more performance, more merchandise, and an immersive gaming experience to turn up the energy." 

Toyota, which unveiled several concept vehicles at last year's Show, is preparing to showcase other industry firsts this year. "Toyota continues its long-standing tradition of re-imagining what vehicles can become when great ideas and creativity kick into high gear," said Toyota in a statement. "From Toyota Genuine and TRD accessories all the way to one-off show-stopping concept cars, Toyota's 2025 SEMA Show display promises something for every customer regardless of segment or powertrain." 

Toyota, which unveiled several concept vehicles at last year's SEMA Show, is preparing to showcase other industry firsts this year, but you'll have to visit the Toyota booth, November 4-7, to see it for yourself in person.

In addition to connecting with leading OEMs and aftermarket brands, attendees will experience the world's largest display of new automotive aftermarket products at the New Products Showcase, cutting-edge vehicle builds, and immersive activations focused on future technologies. The Show also features world-class education tracks, networking events, and SEMA Fest--a high-energy celebration of music and car culture. 

"With the latest innovations, legendary brands, and a community that thrives on creativity and performance, the 2025 SEMA Show will be an unforgettable experience," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "Whether you're launching a new product, scouting trends, or building partnerships, this is the place to be." 

Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $75 per person through Friday, September 26. On September 27, registration online or on-site will increase to $100 per badge. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 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.

Spaces are still available for companies interested in exhibiting and connecting with tens of thousands of qualified buyers. For more information, visit semashow.com/exhibitor.

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.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2025 SEMA Show, November 4–7 in Las Vegas, is the world's largest automotive aftermarket trade event, packed with innovation, education and opportunities at every turn of the Las Vegas Convention Center and outdoor exhibit space. The scale of the Show means no single person can experience it all--which is why bringing employees is key to maximizing your four days at SEMA. A well-prepared team can cover more ground, engage more buyers and ensure that every conversation has the potential to strengthen relationships, spark new opportunities and deliver lasting ROI.

Insights shared during this year's Exhibitor Summit offer key takeaways to help exhibitors sharpen their strategy and maximize ROI at the SEMA Show.

Booth Strategy: Define the "Why"

Every booth at the SEMA Show tells a story, and your team is the driving force for that story. Before arriving in Vegas, make sure every staff member understands the "why" behind your booth: What are you trying to accomplish? Who should talk to which types of attendees? Consider rehearsing your layout with tape lines or chalk to map out where people will stand and how traffic will flow. This preparation makes booth interactions feel seamless instead of improvised.

Conversations That Count

SEMA Show organizers estimate that one person can realistically have about 200 quality conversations during Show week--not 70,000. That means every interaction matters. Teach your team the "connection machine" approach:

• 10-second glance → A chance to turn heads and get someone to glance at your booth display.
• 1-minute pause → Spark curiosity with the "stop and stare" attendees.
• 5-minute chat → Earn trust with the attendees who actually enter the booth to learn more.
• 30-minute sit-down → Reserved for serious, scheduled meetings, here is when exhibitors can close deals.

The goal is to guide each interaction further along--turning a quick glance into curiosity, curiosity into a conversation and, ultimately, into a sit-down meeting that drives real business. The more your employees practice moving attendees along that chain, the more valuable each encounter becomes.

Staffing Smart

Not every employee is suited for every role in the booth. Quick communicators are perfect for the 10-second fly-by interactions, while executives or high-profile leaders are better placed in the back, where serious conversations happen. Matching staff personality and communication style to the correct position in the booth ensures every visitor has a positive experience.

Measuring Success

Help your team understand that success isn't about how many people walk past your booth; it's about how many meaningful connections you make. Track metrics and encourage staff to know their closing ratios. With a strong follow-up plan that prioritizes leads by urgency (same day, next week, next month), your staff will turn casual conversations into measurable results.

Common Booth Mistakes to Avoid

Your employees are the first line of defense against poor booth design. Train them to:

• Remove physical barriers that prevent attendees from entering the booth.
• Use conversation triggers (like a new product or demo) towards the front of the booth to draw interest.
• Position ongoing conversations toward the back to create momentum and curiosity.

Invest in Your People, Reap the Results

When you bring your employees to the SEMA Show, you're equipping them with hands-on experience, face-to-face customer engagement and the chance to tell your brand's story in a way no email or ad campaign ever could. The result? More booth traffic, better-qualified leads and stronger customer relationships.

SEMA Show exhibitor and exhibitor staff registration is available online here and below. For more SEMA Show exhibitor deadlines, visit the Exhibitor Service Manual online here. Exhibitors can also lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

For more information, visit semashow.com.

Have questions or need help registering for the 2025 SEMA Show? Call us at 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, at 508-743-8571, or email AAPEXSEMA@maritz.com.

By Ashley Reyes

On Tuesday, September 16, at 1:00 p.m. PDT/4:00 p.m. EDT, the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) will host a webinar covering automotive aftermarket opportunities in the electric vehicle (EV) space.

The EV aftermarket is still in its early stages, presenting major opportunities for early adopters. However, it also raises new questions about how to customize EVs while maintaining safety, performance and regulatory compliance. During this session, a panel of EV experts will offer strategic guidance as consumer demand for EVs rises and the aftermarket industry begins to evolve.

Key insights include:

• High-growth areas such as performance upgrades, tuning, fleet optimization and vehicle customization.
• Shifts in consumer preferences and how EV buyers differ from internal combustion engine (ICE) customers.
• Collaboration strategies with OEMs and navigation of emerging regulations.
• Future technologies like software-driven upgrades, connected vehicles and autonomous systems.
• Actionable advice from EV industry experts to help businesses pivot successfully.

Speakers for this webinar include Maverik Knoles, president and co-founder of Legacy EV; Hugo Normand, research and development director at Technologies Ingenext; and Brian Reese, president and CEO of T Sportline.

Designed for manufacturers, retailers, fleet managers and enthusiasts, this session will offer attendees with the insights and tools needed to innovate and succeed in the rapidly evolving EV aftermarket. Register here.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2025 SEMA Show, taking place from November 4–7 in Las Vegas, offers an attendee experience like no other automotive trade show on the planet. It's the epicenter of all things automotive, spanning every corner of the market from high-horsepower racing applications to cutting-edge ADAS innovations, and offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see, touch and hold all the latest and greatest products the aftermarket has to offer. Attending is a no-brainer for automotive professionals, enthusiasts, media members, influencers and related industry members.

You can register now to secure your 2025 SEMA Show badge to make sure you can see all of the newest innovations from aftermarket manufacturers, all in one place. Register here for just $75 per person before registration prices increase on September 27 to $100 per person, both online and on-site.

Below are seven reasons why you need to secure their registration (available online here and at the bottom of this article) for this year's SEMA Show:

• Exhibitors: Discover the latest product and vehicle trends across dozens of product categories: Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road; Restyling & Car Care Accessories; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Business Services; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Racing & Performance; Hot Rod Alley; Restoration Marketplace; Collision Repair & Refinish; Tools & Equipment; Global Tire Expo--Powered by TIA (tires) and Wheels & Accessories; and First-Time and Featured Exhibitors.
• New Products Showcase: Visit the New Products Showcase to discover thousands of the latest exhibitor products displayed in one location of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Use the SEMA Show mobile app's "Product Scanner" feature to scan and download product photos and exhibitor information that will remain on your app long after the SEMA Show has ended.
• Education: SEMA Show Education is the single most crucial week of the year to power a professional development plan for your business and career. Through sessions and unique, immersive programs that explore the industry's most significant challenges and offer immediate takeaways, there is something for every automotive professional.
• Networking: The SEMA Show is where connections are built—network with exhibitors, industry leaders and VIPs/celebrities from more than 140 countries and regions. Use the Show's mobile app to view lists of all events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances, and speakers, including date, time, and location. In addition, this year's program includes SEMA Council & Networks receptions, happy hours and meetings--all designed to help you advance your business and grow your network. You'll also have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with others in the industry and build meaningful relationships that'll lead to real results and high-quality connections.
• Show Features: The SEMA Show is teeming with the latest innovations and trends, showcased in several dedicated areas like the SEMA Battle of the Builders; the SEMA FutureTech Studio; the outdoors Optima Village; feature vehicle displays; SEMA Garage: ADAS, Emissions and Product Development; the Collision Repair & Refinish Stage; the Overland Experience; the SEMA Show Art Walk, the International Pavilion and more to be announced.
• Show Events: Unique events and activations, such as the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, the SEMA Industry Honors now at the iconic Fontainebleau, and vehicle demonstrations, will provide ample opportunities for the industry to unite.
• And much more: Of course, attending the SEMA Show in Las Vegas is the best way to boost an automotive professional's business and career path, but be sure to make the most of your time in Vegas with ancillary events like after-hours networking and SEMA Fest, a celebration of motorsports, music and car culture. Note: Your SEMA Show badge does not provide access to SEMA Fest. Visit SEMAFest.com to stay up-to-date and discover when tickets will be available.

Online registration for qualified professional attendees is only $75 per registrant. Register soon, because on Saturday, September 27, registration both online and on-site will be $100. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

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.