From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Left to right: West Virginia (WV) State Senator Chris Rose; WV State Senator Mark Maynard; Tierra Hubbard, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs; WV State Senator Ben Queen.

In a major victory for vehicle choice, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey on April 24 signed into law SB 573, a landmark automotive bill strongly supported by SEMA that prohibits the state from limiting the use, sale or purchase of motor vehicles based on their energy source. The bill effectively blocks potential future bans on internal-combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

SEMA's position on electric vehicle (EV) mandates is clear: innovation should be driven by consumer choice and industry ingenuity, not by restrictive government mandates. Government, therefore, should remain technology neutral.

West Virginia's law is a significant win for the specialty equipment industry. It ensures that businesses can continue to develop and sell performance- and emissions-related products for all types of vehicles, including gasoline, diesel, hybrid and electric. It preserves West Virginians' freedom to choose the vehicles that best suit their needs while supporting a diverse, thriving aftermarket industry.

SEMA will continue to advocate for similar laws at both the state and federal levels, protecting consumer rights and promoting an open, competitive landscape for automotive innovation.

For more information, please contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at tierrah@sema.org.

This story was originally published on Thursday, May 1.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

The next-generation Jeep Compass has been spotted in full camouflage while testing in public, according to SEMA News sources.

The SUV will likely include a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) variant when it launches in Europe later this year, hinted at by the fully camouflaged Compass with a closed-off front grille, a clear indicator of its electric powertrain, as well as no clear tailpipe.

Adopting a new, more modern, rugged appearance, the new images of the Compass prototype show squared-off headlights and a bolder, more aggressive stance. Utilizing Stellantis' STLA Medium platform, the SUV is expected to grow slightly in size, providing additional interior space for passengers and cargo. The lineup will include both single-motor and dual-motor BEV configurations, with power outputs ranging from 213 hp to 350 hp.

Jeep will still offer an internal-combustion engine (ICE) version with a turbocharged 1.2L mild hybrid engine producing 136 hp. Additionally, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will pair a 1.6L inline four-cylinder engine with a 125 hp electric motor, delivering a combined 195 hp.

Stellantis has confirmed that the new Compass will debut in Europe this spring, followed by a mid-year launch in South America and a late-year reveal for North America. European models will be exclusively electrified, with the BEV 4xe version offering the only all-wheel-drive (AWD) option at launch. Production for the North American version is set to begin in 2026. The ICE-powered model will reportedly priority in the United States and Canada, according to sources.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Garage continues to host engaging, hands-on events in partnership with AUTEL. These two-day training sessions focus on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and help participants gain valuable knowledge on fundamentals, calibration techniques and necessary reporting practices. As the number of ADAS-equipped vehicles continues to grow, mastering the proper calibration of these systems is becoming increasingly vital. 

SEMA Garage Detroit will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, May 20, and Wednesday, May 21, at the facility located at 14655 Jib St., Plymouth, MI 48170.

RSVP for the upcoming session on the Autel website here (simply navigate to the "Detroit" tab under the first event), and keep an eye out for additional sessions later this calendar year.

For more information, contact academy@autel.com or visit the Autel website here.

By Ashley Reyes

Applications for women-owned businesses and organizations to host an activation at the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) booth at the 2025 SEMA Show close on Saturday, May 10.  

The SBN booth is the go-to destination for all women at the SEMA Show to network, learn, and engage with other female professionals in the aftermarket community. Partnering companies will host educational and networking activations throughout the four-day trade event, connecting their brand with thousands of industry professionals, enthusiasts and media members.  

To be eligible, companies must be a SEMA member business, be women-owned or operated (51% owned and involved in the day-to-day decisions and long-term decision-making) and support the advancement of women in the automotive aftermarket. 

SBN aims to feature multiple partner activations to provide an engaging and inclusive experience for attendees. Learn more and apply here.  

Contact SBN Council Director Nicole Bradle at 909-323-2149 or nicoleb@sema.org with any questions.

By SEMA News Editors

Motor State Distributing Announces 17th Annual Motor State Challenge, July 24-26

Motor State Distributing, the Watervliet, Michigan-based wholesale distributor of racing and performance parts, will host the 17th annual Motor State Challenge on July 24-26.

The three-day Pro-Touring event will test drivers' skills on the street, track and skidpad, and serve as a wildcard qualifier for the Optima Search for the Ultimate Street Car Finals in Las Vegas, held November 2-7.

Competing in everything from vintage muscle cars to modern sports car, and even a few modified trucks—participants will take to the track at GingerMan Raceway in southwest Michigan, then at the Tire Rack headquarters in South Bend, Indiana.

The event will feature multiple classes, including vintage, late model and manufacturer, as well as the QA1 #goDRIVEit class, which encourages racers to drive their vehicle to the event, race it and then drive it home.

For more information or to register for the event, visit motorstatechallenge.com.

Unser and Herzog Galleries Open at Museum of American Speed

The Museum of American Speed in Lincoln, Nebraska, recently celebrated the opening of the Unser and Herzog galleries in its newly expanded facility.

The new addition to space allowed the museum to add enhanced displays for NASCAR, off-road racing and grow the museum's already established land-speed, drag-racing and custom show-car displays, according to Curator Tim Matthews.

 "We've had a longtime relationship with the Unser and Herzog families and are honored to welcome their collections to the Museum of American Speed," Matthews said. "Over the last few years, we've worked closely with these amazing families to curate the exhibits and are excited to announce the opening of the galleries to the public."

Local dignitaries including Governor Jim Pillen, Mayor Lierion Gaylor Baird, members of the Unser and Herzog families, and Lisa Haight of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb were among those that shared remarks and participated in the ribbon cutting, held at the museum on April 25.

The museum now offers 240,000 sq.-ft. of exhibit space following its expansion.

For more information, visit museumofamericanspeed.org.

New ARC2 Rally2 Car Set to Be Unveiled at 2025 PRI Show

Braselton, Georgia-based rally car manufacturer JRD Motorsport is currently developing an all-new, American-built Rally2 car designed to compete in the American Rally Association (ARA) RC2 class, and will debut the new car at the 2025 PRI Show, December 11-13, downtown Indianapolis.

Built to a mixture of FIA RC2 technical specification and ARA Open Class regulations, the vehicle serves a growing need for cars that are as fast and spectacular as their European counterparts, JRD Motorsport representatives said, but at a purchase and maintenance cost more suited for the American market. The car will be powered by a bespoke spec engine prepared to match the performance of FIA Rally2 cars.

The company has been working alongside the ARA to develop the class, the car manufacturer said. 

Two-time World Rally Champion Marcus Grönholm is assisting in the development of the car as JRD's test driver.

For more information, visit JRD Motorsport.com.

For more information on the 2025 PRI Show, visit here. Attendee registration for the show opens in July.

By SEMA News Editors

RANDYS Worldwide Acquires BulletProof Hitches

RANDYS Worldwide has acquired BulletProof Hitches, a manufacturer of trailer hitch products, to strengthen RANDYS offerings to include towing solutions and accessories.

"With BulletProof Hitches joining the RANDYS family of brands, we are bringing together two companies that share the same passion for quality, innovation, and customer service," said Kevin Kaestner, president and CEO of RANDYS Worldwide. "Their industry-leading towing products perfectly complement our mission to provide top-tier solutions for truck and off-road enthusiasts."

BulletProof Hitches will continue to operate from its Bradenton, Florida, headquarters while utilizing the expanded reach of the RANDYS Worldwide supply chain, distribution network and engineering expertise.

For more information, visit randysworldwide.com or bulletproofhitches.com.

Classic Motorsports Monterey Kickoff Returning to Pacific Grove in 2025

The Classic Motorsports Monterey Kickoff will again be held in Pacific Grove, California, for 2025.

Kicking-off the Monterey Car Week festivities with a welcome party in downtown Pacific Grove, the event features numerous classic cars on display, as well as free admission for spectators, as is currently scheduled for Tuesday, August 12, from 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. PDT.

Limited to 200 pre-registered cars, the entry fee for vehicles is $95. No registrations will be accepted at the gate.

Click here for more information or to register a vehicle for the event.

Overland Expo West Shares Details for Flagstaff Event

Overland Expo is returning to Flagstaff, Arizona, for the annual Overland Expo West event on May 16-18.

The annual expo will feature more than 400 exhibitors and 300 hours of educational programming, including 150-plus classes on everything from vehicle recovery techniques to backcountry culinary skills.

"Overland Expo West is where this entire community began," says Jessica Kirchner, VP of consumer events and show director for Overland Expo. "From the very first gathering in 2009, we've grown into a global series—but Flagstaff remains our flagship. It's where overland legends gather, where gear debuts, and where lifelong adventure dreams take shape."

Other event highlights include the Overland Expo Film Festival, the Women Who Wander networking event and more.

For more information, visit overlandexpo.com.

Report: Chattanooga Motorcar Festival Canceled for 2025

The Chattanooga Motorcar Festival has been canceled for 2025, according to published reports.

The event would have been the sixth Chattanooga festival, which included auctions from Mecum and Broad Arrow held alongside the downtown event.

For more information, read the full report at classicmotorsports.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) invites SEMA members under 40 to its Pizza and Professionals Networking Reception. The event will take place following the FLN Professional Development Program (PDP) at the SEMA Garage Detroit in Plymouth, Michigan, on May 9, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. EDT.

FLN networking events are a great opportunity to grow one's professional network in a relaxed setting, as well as discover resources designed to help young professionals succeed in the industry. FLN select committee leaders will be on-site to share information about the network's current projects, resources for members and ways to get involved. 

Pizza and refreshments will be provided. Registration is required.

Register here.

By SEMA News Editors

In case you missed it last week, SEMA has announced the one-of-a-kind motorsports and music festival SEMA Fest returns to Las Vegas on Friday, November 7, following the conclusion of the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7. And now, SEMA has announced early access tickets to the 2025 SEMA Fest, the one-of-a-kind motorsports and music festival, are now available at semafest.com. 

SEMA Fest, held on the Bronze Lot at the Las Vegas Convention Center campus, will once again merge musical vibes with the automotive attractions of the SEMA Show, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience for car and music lovers alike.

And as part of open registration for the SEMA Show (now available at semashow.com), SEMA Fest has also released a limited number of tickets allowing the public to attend the final day of the SEMA Show on Friday, November 7. The one-day-only "SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public" ticket provides the bucket list experience enthusiasts have long been asking for. With the SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public ticket, enthusiasts can walk the halls of the SEMA Show, discover the latest products to hit the marketplace and meet with industry insiders at the ultimate automotive event in the world all before attending the ultimate afterparty, SEMA Fest.

What to expect for the 2025 SEMA Fest and the "SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public" ticket:

• With the SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public ticket, enthusiasts can gain access to the SEMA Show exhibition halls and celebrate car culture with motorsports activations, thousands of show cars, and so much more on Friday, November 7, and then...
• Rock out with top musical acts at the SEMA Fest Concert Stage after the SEMA Show ends!

2025 SEMA Fest tickets are now on sale at semafest.com. Note, qualifying industry insiders can also make their SEMA Fest General Admission and VIP concert ticket purchases when registering for their SEMA Show badge on semashow.com. The official concert lineup will be announced at a later date.

Don't miss out on this epic celebration of car culture and music! Get SEMA Fest updates straight to your inbox and sign up on semafest.com.

Questions? Contact info@semafest.com. Sponsorship and partnership questions? Contact partnership@semafest.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Editor's Note: This story was originally published on April 29, 2025. For the latest SEMA Show information, visit semashow.com. To register for the 2025 SEMA Show, visit here.

Online registration is officially open for the 2025 SEMA Show, the world's leading automotive aftermarket event.

Returning to Las Vegas, November 4-7, 2025, the SEMA Show brings together the most influential minds, innovative brands and trend-setting builders, making it the ultimate destination for anyone serious about the business of the automotive aftermarket industry, and for those that power the passion of the specialty-equipment market.

Filling every square foot of indoor and outdoor space at the Las Vegas Convention Center and featuring more than 2,000 exhibitors, the SEMA Show is where groundbreaking products debut, game-changing ideas take shape, impactful business relationships are made, and custom vehicles steal the spotlight. From performance and restoration to off-road and advanced technologies, this is where the industry's future comes alive.

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.

In addition to being the ultimate destination for industry professionals, it is continuing to evolve to welcome the broader car culture community--enthusiasts, consumers and fans who power the passion behind the industry. Through new programs and experiences, SEMA is welcoming automotive aftermarket enthusiasts more than ever.

SEMA Show Friday--Open to the Public takes place on Friday, November 7, giving car culture fans a unique opportunity to explore the excitement of the SEMA Show. With access to the Show floor, curated feature vehicle displays, outdoor demonstrations and crossover experiences with SEMA Fest, Friday public attendees get a rare behind-the-scenes look at the trends and talent shaping the future of the marketplace.

The 2025 Show will feature immersive activations throughout the campus, giving attendees a deeper, more hands-on experience across every segment of the industry. Education seminars and networking functions will also take place throughout SEMA week, providing attendees with an unmatched opportunity to learn from and connect with industry experts.

The 2025 event builds on the incredible momentum of last year's SEMA Show, which drew tremendous support from every corner of the industry. From packed exhibit halls and dynamic activations to the popular SEMA Fest concert and the open-to-the-public Friday Experience, the 2024 Show reaffirmed SEMA's role as the industry's most vital and unifying platform. That strong foundation sets the stage for an even bigger and more impactful experience this year.

"For businesses navigating a rapidly changing market, the SEMA Show offers more than inspiration—it offers stability and an unmatched environment to future-proof your business," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "In times of uncertainty, SEMA delivers clarity, confidence and opportunity, fueling connections that matter and growth that lasts." 

Also open to the public, SEMA Fest returns in 2025 with even more energy and entertainment. Featuring live music, motorsports action, vehicle displays and lifestyle experiences, this celebration connects the enthusiast community with the creative spirit of the aftermarket. As part of open registration for the SEMA Show, SEMA Fest is releasing a limited number of tickets for both SEMA Show Friday--Open to the Public and the SEMA Fest concert, offering fans and industry insiders the opportunity to purchase tickets at the lowest possible cost. The SEMA Fest artist lineup will be announced later this summer. (Learn more here and at semafest.com).

"SEMA continues to evolve to serve not only the industry's professionals but also the passionate enthusiasts who drive the market forward," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "With expanded experiences like SEMA Fest and SEMA Show Friday--Open to the Public, we're creating access for people to engage with automotive culture in meaningful and exciting ways and in turn, a growing enthusiast base will help create a stronger industry."

From product launches to unforgettable live experiences, the SEMA Show brings together everyone who lives and breathes the automotive lifestyle.

Register now and be part of the global gathering that drives the automotive world into the future. Visit semashow.com to secure your badge. 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.

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

Planning for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, is officially underway, and now you can follow along as the SEMA Show team builds the floorplan alongside the thousands of exhibitors that have already confirmed their participation in the world's leading automotive aftermarket event. You can see the Show map as it updates at semashow.com/floorplan.

Whether you're an exhibitor or an attendee, the 2025 floorplan is a useful tool that will be updated every 30 minutes throughout the week as booth plotting progresses. More than 2,000 exhibitors are involved in the process, with SEMA Show representatives calling each company--one by one--to select the most suitable booth space to achieve their business goals. 

For exhibitors that want to participate but have yet to submit an Exhibitor Space Rental Agreement, 2025 SEMA Show booth space applications are still being accepted here.

The floorplan will continue to be built over the coming weeks, highlighting new features, attractions and exciting new areas to be introduced throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center at the 2025 SEMA Show. And now that registration is finally open, automotive professionals, decision-makers, buyers, media members and attendees can use the Floorplan to maximize their Show experience, too, by utilizing the interactive map and exhibitor list at SEMAShow.com/floorplan to plan their Show.

The floorplan is just one of many powerful tools available to SEMA Show exhibitors. For more information on the ins and outs of exhibiting at the SEMA Show, visit the Exhibitor Service Manual, which features numerous resources and information on deadlines, feature vehicle programs, booth guidelines, on-site services and much more. (More details here).

Booth spaces are limited and selling fast, but there is still time to get involved. To reserve a booth at the 2025 SEMA Show, visit here. 

To register to attend the 2025 SEMA Show, visit here.