By SEMA News Editors

The best builds. The boldest customizations. Do you have what it takes to be the next Battle of the Builders champion? There's only one way to find out!

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 Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers champion. Think you have what it takes? There's only one way to find out! 

Applications are open for the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers 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
• 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.

"[To] be crowned the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders overall winner [is] an amazing accolade. The competition every year is incredibly fierce, and we've been following it for years. Some of the people we look up to the most in the industry have won this award, so to appear alongside those people is really incredible," said Noah Alexander, who secured the overall win in 2024 with his '68 Dodge Charger. "The best for us was the incredible people we met. It was just amazing to talk to all of these other builders and hear what they do."

Industry experts will review all qualifying applications, including vehicle descriptions and photos. On Monday, November 3, prior to the official opening of the 2025 SEMA Show, the SEMA Battle of the Builders Judges will walk the show floor looking at dozens of Battle of the Builders entries up close and in person. Judges will then select the Top 40 finalists in the competition (10 from each category). After the Top 40 finalists are announced, the Top 10 from the Young Guns category will compete on Wednesday, November 5, in their own competition to determine their Top 3 finalists.  At the same time, the Judges will narrow down the Top 3 from the other three categories to round out the Overall Top 12 finalists (three from each category). On Thursday, November 6, the Top 12 finalists then become the judges and select from amongst themselves who are the Top 4 category winners and who is named the Top Overall Builder of the SEMA BOTB.

Battle of the Builders Young Guns Category

Supporting and inspiring young builders is crucial to the future of the automotive specialty-equipment market. The BOTB Young Guns category is designed to encourage young builders to pursue their passions and shine the 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. In addition, all eligible Young Guns applicants who have submitted their online application before August 15, 2025, may be selected to compete in one or more virtual regional Golden Ticket competitions for the chance to win a Golden Ticket SEMA Show prize package. The eligible Young Guns applicants who have been selected for this will be contacted separately by the BOTB operations team via email or phone.

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 $50 per person through Friday, June 27. Starting June 28, the rate increases to $75, and as of September 27, registration online or onsite will be $100. 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.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA continues to gain new clarity on President Trump's tariffs policies, including details on "stacking," in which some tariffs are combined with others. Here's the latest.

How We Got Here

President Trump earlier this month signed a proclamation doubling tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%. While the move is aimed at boosting domestic metal production, it will have a significant impact on specialty automotive aftermarket businesses that import products that contain steel and aluminum if the product is not subject to the 232 automotive tariffs.

• Click here to see the products covered by the 25% auto parts tariffs that are exempt from the steel and aluminum tariffs.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently updated its guidance on tariff "stacking" steel and aluminum imports and provided information on a three-month extension on exclusions from the China 301 tariffs.

CBP Updated Guidance on Tariff Stacking

CBP recently issued updated guidance on the "stacking" of different tariffs on top of one another. The full memo can be found here. Effective June 4, for imported goods that are subject to more of the tariffs listed below, duties are applied in the following order based on these key rules:

1. Section 232 Auto/Auto Parts:
   1. If the part or vehicle is covered under the 232 automotive or parts tariff, the item is exempt from the following tariffs: 232 Aluminum, 232 Steel, and IEEPA Canada/Mexico.
   2. However, auto parts that qualify under USMCA are not subject to 232 Auto/Auto Parts or IEEPA tariffs.
2. Section 232 Aluminum and Steel:
   1. If the automotive/auto parts tariff does not apply, determine if the article is subject to aluminum and/or steel tariffs.
   2. For derivative products, duties are assessed on the value of each metal that's included in the product.
   3. If applicable, the item is not subject to IEEPA Canada and Mexico tariffs.
   4. Russia Note: Imports with aluminum, either smelted or cast in Russia, face a 200% Section 232 duty.
3. IEEPA Canada and Mexico
   1. These tariffs only apply if the auto/auto parts, aluminum, and steel tariffs do not.
   2. USMCA-qualified articles are exempt from IEEPA tariffs.

CBP Updated Guidance on Steel & Aluminum Imports

• As of June 4, products classified in Ch. 73 (Articles of iron or steel) or 76 (Articles of aluminum) will be assessed the 50% duty only on the steel/aluminum content of that product. Previously, the tariff was assessed on the full value of the imported product. 
• CBP also updated additional guidance and updated Chapter 99 subheadings for Section 232 steel and aluminum imports: 
  • Aluminum: View here.
  • Steel: View here.

USTR Extends Certain Exclusions from China Section 301 Tariffs

• The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) extended the expiration date for Section 301 exclusions from May 31, 2025, to August 31, 2025. Click here to learn more.

Have a policy question or want to share how tariffs are affecting your business? Contact Juan Mejia, SEMA's senior manager for federal government affairs, at juanm@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA continues to gain new clarity on President Trump's tariffs policies, including details on "stacking," in which some tariffs are combined with others. Here's the latest.

How We Got Here

President Trump earlier this month signed a proclamation doubling tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%. While the move is aimed at boosting domestic metal production, it will have a significant impact on specialty automotive aftermarket businesses that import products that contain steel and aluminum if the product is not subject to the 232 automotive tariffs.

• Click here to see the products covered by the 25% auto parts tariffs that are exempt from the steel and aluminum tariffs.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently updated its guidance on tariff "stacking" steel and aluminum imports and provided information on a three-month extension on exclusions from the China 301 tariffs.

CBP Updated Guidance on Tariff Stacking

CBP recently issued updated guidance on the "stacking" of different tariffs on top of one another. The full memo can be found here. Effective June 4, for imported goods that are subject to more of the tariffs listed below, duties are applied in the following order based on these key rules:

1. Section 232 Auto/Auto Parts:
   1. If the part or vehicle is covered under the 232 automotive or parts tariff, the item is exempt from the following tariffs: 232 Aluminum, 232 Steel, and IEEPA Canada/Mexico.
   2. However, auto parts that qualify under USMCA are not subject to 232 Auto/Auto Parts or IEEPA tariffs.
2. Section 232 Aluminum and Steel:
   1. If the automotive/auto parts tariff does not apply, determine if the article is subject to aluminum and/or steel tariffs.
   2. For derivative products, duties are assessed on the value of each metal that's included in the product.
   3. If applicable, the item is not subject to IEEPA Canada and Mexico tariffs.
   4. Russia Note: Imports with aluminum, either smelted or cast in Russia, face a 200% Section 232 duty.
3. IEEPA Canada and Mexico
   1. These tariffs only apply if the auto/auto parts, aluminum, and steel tariffs do not.
   2. USMCA-qualified articles are exempt from IEEPA tariffs.

CBP Updated Guidance on Steel & Aluminum Imports

• As of June 4, products classified in Ch. 73 (Articles of iron or steel) or 76 (Articles of aluminum) will be assessed the 50% duty only on the steel/aluminum content of that product. Previously, the tariff was assessed on the full value of the imported product. 
• CBP also updated additional guidance and updated Chapter 99 subheadings for Section 232 steel and aluminum imports: 
  • Aluminum: View here.
  • Steel: View here.

USTR Extends Certain Exclusions from China Section 301 Tariffs

• The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) extended the expiration date for Section 301 exclusions from May 31, 2025, to August 31, 2025. Click here to learn more.

Have a policy question or want to share how tariffs are affecting your business? Contact Juan Mejia, SEMA's senior manager for federal government affairs, at juanm@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA has announced the results of the 2025-2026 SEMA Board of Directors elections, with (in alphabetical order) Rich Butler of R&R Marketing; Brian Herron of OPUS IVS; Norris Marshall of BluePrint Engines; Tim McCarthy of Hushmat & ZyCoat; and Marcus Umlauff of Toyota Motor North America elected to serve on the Board. Butler and Umlauff are current SEMA Board members who were re-elected to join the group.

SEMA Board members are industry representatives who volunteer their time to lead and guide the association. They are elected by SEMA-member companies and represent the key membership categories: manufacturers, distributors/retailers, manufacturers' representative, and services. 

The SEMA Board of Directors for 2025-2026 will be as follows:

Chair-elect

Norris Marshall, CEO, BluePrint Engines

Manufacturer

Brian Herron, CEO, OPUS IVS

Tim McCarthy, founder and CEO, Hushmat and ZyCoat

Marcus Umlauff, general manager, truck, Toyota Motor North America, Incumbent

Manufacturer's Rep

Rich Butler, CEO, R&R Marketing, Incumbent

The SEMA Board of Directors members are industry representatives who volunteer their time to lead and guide the association. They are elected by SEMA-member companies and represent the key membership categories: manufacturers, distributors/retailers, manufacturers' rep and services.

The entire 2025-2026 SEMA Board of Directors and outgoing Board members will be honored and recognized during the 2025 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala n Universal City, California, on Friday, July 25. All SEMA members and industry professionals are invited to join the celebration by purchasing tickets at sema.org/gala.

2025-2026 SEMA Board of Directors

Board Officers:

• Chairperson: Melanie White, president, Hellwig Products
• Chair-elect: Norris Marshall, CEO, BluePrint Engines
• Immediate Past-Chair/Secretary: Kyle Fickler, director of business development, ProCharger
• Treasurer: Chris Douglas

Board Members:

• Bill Bader, president and owner, Summit Motorsports Park
• Rich Butler, CEO, R&R Marketing Consultants
• Brian Herron, president, OPUS IVS
• Doug Lane, president and owner, Motor State Distributing
• Tim McCarthy, founder and CEO, Hushmat and ZyCoat
• Kelle Oeste, CEO and owner, V8TV Speed & Resto Shop
• Kim Pendergast, CEO, Magnuson Superchargers
• Melissa Scoles, president and CEO, QA1
• Marcus Umlauff, general manager, truck, Toyota Motor North America
• Ted Wentz, CEO, Quadratec

Below is the list of outgoing board members:

• James Lawrence, CEO and president, POWER
• Kathryn Reinhardt, SVP of marketing and events, Hemmings

The scholarship program recognizes students with the fierce resolve to make maximum impact in everything they do.

Carlyle Tools is proud to introduce the Carlyle Tools MAX IMPACT Scholarship to arm the next generation of skilled trade professionals with the tools and support they need to succeed. The scholarship program recognizes exceptional students who embody the Carlyle spirit: innovation in action and the fierce resolve to make maximum impact in everything they do. This monthly scholarship program will award each student with $2,500 and a professional-grade Carlyle toolbox so they can dominate in their field from day one.

For years, the automotive industry has faced a technician shortage, and the lack of a qualified workforce poses a significant threat to its livelihood. However, the next generation is waking up to the promising opportunity in skilled trades and becoming more open-minded about their post-secondary education options. Carlyle recognized this potential and introduced the MAX IMPACT Scholarship to support the endeavors of future techs.

"We believe tomorrow's technicians deserve to be equipped with the unrivaled power and precision that defines Carlyle," said Danny Huffaker, senior vice president of product and marketing at NAPA. "This Carlyle scholarship recognizes the new wave of technicians who are defying conventions and making smart career decisions, and our high-performance tools are built with the efficiency and durability they need to succeed."

The Carlyle Tools MAX IMPACT Scholarship will help unleash a new force in the skilled trades world. For Carlyle, this is an investment in the future forces who'll keep America's engines running, systems functioning, and industries thriving.

Program Details:

• Eligibility: Open to students enrolled in accredited skilled trades programs focusing on automotive, diesel, collision repair, heavy equipment, marine, motorcycle and aviation technology.
   
• Selection Criteria: Applicants are evaluated based on academic performance, demonstrated passion for their craft, technical aptitude and potential to make an impact in the industry.
   
• How to Apply or Nominate: Applications and nominations can be submitted through NAPA partner, TechForce Foundation. Candidates must complete the online application form, submit academic transcripts, provide a personal statement explaining why they're built different and include at least one recommendation from an instructor or industry professional.

Scholarship Awards: Recipients will receive $2,500 and a professional-grade Carlyle toolbox, awarded monthly.

Carlyle is the tool line from NAPA, which has undergone a complete brand transformation to become top of the toolchain. Engineered by and for technicians to define unmatched quality and performance, Carlyle is BUILT DIFFERENT for the techs who demand power and accuracy from automotive tools.

For more information, please visit The Carlyle Tools MAX IMPACT Scholarship page: The Carlyle Tools MAX IMPACT Scholarship - TechForce.

For more information about Carlyle Tools, visit CarlyleTools.com.

About NAPA

Through nearly 6,000 auto parts stores and more than 18,000 auto care centers in the U.S., NAPA has America's largest network of parts and care. The NAPA Network is supported by nationwide distribution centers with approximately 800,000 available parts, accessories and supplies. Widely recognized for quality parts, rapid availability and knowledgeable people, NAPA Auto Parts stores serve automotive service professionals, do-it-yourselfers and everyday drivers with quality parts, accessories and supplies to keep cars, trucks and equipment performing safely and efficiently. In 2025, NAPA proudly celebrates its 100th anniversary by honoring its innovative spirit and centennial legacy through community initiatives and a renewed commitment to driving the industry forward for the next century. For more information, visit napaonline.com.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office 

Clearing another significant step in the legislative process, Leno's Law, officially known as Senate Bill (SB) 712, was successfully passed out of the California Senate. The 32-3 vote, with strong bipartisan support, reflects the widespread recognition of the need to protect collectors who seek the cultural and historical value of the cars they love. 

SB 712 now moves to the State Assembly, where it will be referred to a policy committee and heard prior to July 18.

Leno's Law is authored by Senator Shannon Grove and backed by renowned car enthusiast Jay Leno. It aims to exempt collector cars 35 years or older from the state's stringent smog check requirements, provided they have a historical vehicle license plate and are insured as a collector car. This bill aims to reduce regulatory barriers, allowing classic cars to remain on the road. The passage of Leno's Law through the Senate is a crucial step forward for car enthusiasts and the state's economy. 

Voice your support for "Jay Leno's Law" and help protect jobs, heritage and small businesses. Tell legislators to pass the bill now. (It only takes a minute!) 

To help answer common questions and clarify confusion about what the bill does and why recent amendments were made, SEMA has prepared detailed FAQs that explain who qualifies under the bill, why specific changes were added during the legislative process, and what to expect as the bill continues to move through the State Assembly. It's a valuable resource for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of Leno's Law and learn how to get involved. 

For more information on how to support Leno's Law and to stay updated on its progress, contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org.  

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office 

Clearing another significant step in the legislative process, Leno's Law, officially known as Senate Bill (SB) 712, was successfully passed out of the California Senate. The 32-3 vote, with strong bipartisan support, reflects the widespread recognition of the need to protect collectors who seek the cultural and historical value of the cars they love. 

SB 712 now moves to the State Assembly, where it will be referred to a policy committee and heard prior to July 18.

Leno's Law is authored by Senator Shannon Grove and backed by renowned car enthusiast Jay Leno. It aims to exempt collector cars 35 years or older from the state's stringent smog check requirements, provided they have a historical vehicle license plate and are insured as a collector car. This bill aims to reduce regulatory barriers, allowing classic cars to remain on the road. The passage of Leno's Law through the Senate is a crucial step forward for car enthusiasts and the state's economy. 

Voice your support for "Jay Leno's Law" and help protect jobs, heritage and small businesses. Tell legislators to pass the bill now. (It only takes a minute!) 

To help answer common questions and clarify confusion about what the bill does and why recent amendments were made, SEMA has prepared detailed FAQs that explain who qualifies under the bill, why specific changes were added during the legislative process, and what to expect as the bill continues to move through the State Assembly. It's a valuable resource for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of Leno's Law and learn how to get involved. 

For more information on how to support Leno's Law and to stay updated on its progress, contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org.  

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is accepting applications for its annual PRO Cup Challenge, taking place at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas.

Designed to celebrate the creativity, craftsmanship and passion that drive the automotive-customization industry, the competition invites automotive restylers to design an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. The goal of the program is to show restylers, dealerships and accessory manufacturers the benefit of designing marketable accessory packages instead of "one-time" vehicles. 

To qualify for the competition, the restyled vehicle must have maximum labor hours of 40 hours per package installed and a wholesale cost of no more than $12,500 to the dealer. 

Benefits of competing include:  

Vehicle Placement in West Hall  

Selected companies will have their vehicle showcased in the PRO booth in West Hall, putting their skills and brand in front of thousands of buyers and media.  

Recognition From Peers, Public  

Judges made of industry experts will select a PRO Cup Challenge winner based on the accessory package's marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity and profitability. SEMA Showgoers will vote for their favorite accessory package and recognize it with the People's Choice Award. 

Brand Exposure  

Competing shops and their vehicles are featured in SEMA and PRO publications and social media leading up to, during and after the SEMA Show. 

Networking Opportunities  

Companies participate in networking and recognition opportunities at SEMA Show PRO events, opening the door to valuable industry connections and potential partnerships. 

Build Industry Credibility  

Restylers can position themselves as experts in their field by creating custom vehicle options that stand out in dealership showrooms. By participating in the challenge, restylers can demonstrate their ability to attract new customers, increase sales and build lasting customer loyalty.

Applications are due July 25. If selected, competitors must complete and submit a build sheet with the basic concept of their package by September 5. Apply here today and learn more about the PRO Cup Challenge at the 2025 SEMA Show here. 

PRO is looking for member manufacturers to donate parts or offer parts at a discounted price to PRO Cup Challenge applicants. This is a great opportunity to showcase your products on the vehicles that are selected for the competition. Sign up here. 

By SEMA News Editors

Time is running out to take advantage of the best possible pricing for your 2025 SEMA Show badge. Right now, online registration for qualified professional attendees is only $50 per person through Friday, June 27. On June 28, the rate will increase to $75 per person, before increasing again on September 27 to $100 per person, both online and on-site.

Maximize your savings. Register now!

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. Attending is a no-brainer for automotive professionals, enthusiasts, media members, influencers and related industry members.

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 $50 per person through Friday, June 27. Starting June 28, the rate increases to $75, and as of September 27, registration online or 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.

By SEMA News Editors

Housing reservations are now open for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, including several new hotels, available at the lowest possible nightly rates through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

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

SEMA Show and onPeak offer attendees and exhibitors the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas, as well as numerous other benefits for Showgoers.

Hotel reservations for the 2025 SEMA Show--November 4-7, Las Vegas--are now open online here. Registration for the 2025 SEMA Show will open on Monday, April 28.

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

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock