Compiled by SEMA Editors

Steve Torrence went 3.809 seconds at 322.11 mph in the final round in his 11,000-hp dragster, which paid special tribute to “Big Daddy” Don Garlits’ iconic “Swamp Rat 14.”

S. Torrence, Capps, Laughlin and M. Smith Pick Up Victories at 51st Annual Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals at Gainesville Raceway

Defending Top Fuel world champion Steve Torrence vaulted into the points lead last Sunday at Gainesville Raceway, powering past his father Billy in the final round to win the AMALIE Motor Oil Gatornationals for the first time in his career. Ron Capps (Funny Car), Alex Laughlin (Pro Stock) and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also won in their respective categories at the seventh race of the 2020 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series season.

Torrence, who has won back-to-back world titles, went 3.809 seconds at 322.11 mph in the final round in his 11,000-hp dragster, which paid special tribute to “Big Daddy” Don Garlits’ iconic “Swamp Rat 14.” With Garlits watching on the starting line, Torrence and his throwback look slipped past his father’s 3.810 at 320.74 to win for the third time this year and 39th time overall. Torrence moved into first in the class by 22 points over Doug Kalitta to cap off the weekend.

Capps picked up his fourth career win at Gainesville with a clutch performance, running 3.937 at 323.12 in the final round in his 11,000-hp NAPA Auto Parts Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat to squeak past Tim Wilkerson’s 3.945 at 325.92. It gave Don Schumacher Racing its 10th straight Funny Car win and came in a backup car after an explosion during Capps’ semifinal victory against teammate Matt Hagan.

Pro Stock’s Laughlin turned around his 2020 season in a major way, racing to his first victory of the year in his Havoline/Laughlin Motorsports Chevrolet Camaro with a run of 7.068 at 204.76 in the final round against Aaron Stanfield.

In Pro Stock Motorcycle, Smith finished off a dominant weekend with his first win of the season on his Denso/Stockseth/MSR EBR, going 6.843 at 196.99 to beat defending world champ Andrew Hines in the final round. Smith moved into the points lead with his first win at Gainesville, celebrating a special weekend that also saw his dad Rickie win in Pro Mod.

The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series continues October 2-4, with the Mopar Express Lane NHRA Midwest Nationals presented by Pennzoil at World Wide Technology Raceway in St. Louis.

Vaughn Gittin Jr. in the Monster Energy/Nitto Tire/Ford Performance Mustang RTR Spec 5-D defeated Justin Pawlak in the Roush Performance/Falken Tire Ford Mustang.

2020 Formula DRIFT Results From PRO Championship Round Four

Vaughn Gittin Jr. (USA) achieved a double PRO Championship win last weekend at Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, Washington. Justin Pawlak finished second and Ryan Tuerck came in third. For complete results, visit the Formula DRIFT website.

Drivers were doubled down for the Chevrolet Performance Challenge Series LSX Shootout during the 19th Annual Nitrous Supply NMCA World Street Finals presented by Chevrolet Performance, September 24–27, at Lucas Oil Raceway in Indiana.

Chevrolet Performance Challenge Series Puts Exclamation Mark on Exciting Season

Drivers were doubled down for the Chevrolet Performance Challenge Series LSX Shootout during the 19th Annual Nitrous Supply NMCA World Street Finals presented by Chevrolet Performance, September 24–27, at Lucas Oil Raceway in Indiana, as it was the last race of the year, and the chase was on to get to the Aerospace Components Winner’s Circle.

LME Street King: Joey Moore in his Camaro made it to the final round of eliminations, where he reacted with an .029 and stayed in the throttle to a break out time of 9.97 on a 10.00 to win after Austin Tewell turned on the red light.

Proform Rumble: Cody Poston in his Camaro cruised all the way to the final round of eliminations to face David Rickey and his Camaro. Rickey, who had a better reaction time, won with an 11.01 on an 11.00, while Poston broke out with a 10.46.

Chevrolet Performance Stock presented by Scoggin-Dickey Parts Center: Scott Brown in his Camaro advanced to the final round of eliminations to face Jeff Heintz and his Camaro, and Heintz hooked the win with a 10.25 to Brown’s off-pace10.44.

Chevrolet Performance Street Car Challenge: Bill Schwarz earned the event win with an 8.56 average, and Terry Faust earned the runner-up with an 8.96 average. Also holding their own were Stephan Chechak, the 9-second winner, Matthew Pouge, the 10-second winner, Kevin Rowand, the 11-second winner and Lonnie Sinclair, the 12-second winner. James Jekel wrapped up the 13-second win and Cody Wright collected the 14-second win.

The Brian Tooley Racing Real Street Shootout: Bill Trovato and Jessie Coulter in their Camaros recorded comparable reaction times in the final round of eliminations, and Trovato took the win with a 4.71 against Coulter, who was not far behind with a 4.76.

Dutchman Nick Catsburg drove the Rowe Racing BMW M6 GT3 across the finish line first.

ROWE Racing WIns 48th ADAC TOTAL 24-Hour Race Nürburgring

ROWE Racing won the 48th ADAC TOTAL 24h race Nürburgring in a heart-stopping final. With an advantage of 15.452 seconds after 85 laps in extremely difficult weather conditions, Dutchman Nick Catsburg drove the Rowe Racing BMW M6 GT3 (starting number 99), equipped with KW Competition racing sport dampers, across the finish line first.

In ARP Nitrous Pro Street, Kyle Salminen secured the holeshot win with a 4.57 over Vince Khoury’s quicker 4.53.

Perseverance and Power Prevail at 19th Annual Nitrous Supply NMCA World Street Finals presented by Chevrolet Performance

While a global pandemic made parts of the 2020 season problematic, racers persisted and put it all on the line at the 19th Annual Nitrous Supply NMCA World Street Finals presented by Chevrolet Performance, September 24–27, at Lucas Oil Raceway in Indiana.

VP Racing Lubricants Xtreme Pro Mod: Eric Gustafson in his Coast Packing and PTP Racing-tuned Camaro went on to another 3.66 to win over Randy Adler, who had a 3.74 in the final round of eliminations.

Holley EFI Factory Super Cars: Bill Skillman in his Mustang Cobra Jet went to the Aerospace Components Winner’s and Champion’s Circle with a 7.70 after Tripp Carter clicked it red, but ran it out to a 7.69 in his Mustang Cobra Jet.

ARP Nitrous Pro Street: Kyle Salminen secured the holeshot win with a 4.57 over Vince Khoury’s quicker 4.53.

NMCA Edelbrock Xtreme Street: The final round featured Tim Knieriem and Nick McGrath, who recently returned to competition with a new Mustang. Knieriem headed to a 4.67 and the Aerospace Components Winner’s and Champion’s Circle when McGrath left the line just a little too early and turned on the red light.

Dart NA 10.5 presented by Diamond Pistons: Rich Nye in his Mustang llanded in the final round of eliminations against Leonard Long and his Mustang. The tight race saw Nye nab the win with a 7.78 to Long’s 7.80.

Chevrolet Performance Stock presented by Scoggin-Dickey Parts Center: Scott Brown in his Camaro advanced to the final round of eliminations to face Jeff Heintz and his Camaro SS, and Heintz hooked the win with a 10.25 to Brown’s off-pace10.44.

Coan Stock/Super Stock Combo: Frankie Morris and Andy Warren met in the final round of eliminations. There, Morris motored to a 9.81 on a 9.80 in his Camaro to win over Warren, who broke out—barely—with a 9.349 on a 9.35 in his COPO Camaro.

Quick Fuel Technology Nostalgia Super Stock: Jeff Day and his Fury defeated Shawn Johnson and his Belvedere with a 10.27 on a 10.25 to Johnson’s break-out time of 10.98 on an 11.00.

Detroit Truetrac Nostalgia Muscle: Tom Fredericks in his Pontiac landed in the Aerospace Components Winner’s and Champion’s Circle with a 12.07 on a 12.00 against Andy Warren, who broke out with a 10.24 on a 10.25 in his Caprice.

MagnaFuel Open Comp: Steve Wilson and Dan Caissie rumbled in the final round of eliminations. Wilson won with a better reaction time and a lifting 9.66 on a 9.44 in his Nova to Caissie’s 10.90 on a 10.68 in his Mustang.

TorqStorm Superchargers True Street: Emerging as the overall winner was Greg Edwards, with an 8.51 average, and rolling to the runner-up finish was Scott Oshinski, with a 9.07 average. Also standing out were Wesley Butler, the 9-second winner, Casey Flore, the 10-second winner, Bob Hoffman, the 11-second winner and Jan Sorenson, the 12-second winner. Rounding out the category were Anthony Jager, the 13-second winner, Rick Doern, the 14-second winner and Elaine Moistner, the 15-second winner.

Dodge//Mopar HEMI Shootout: Alan Scruggs arrived at the overall win with a 10.02 average, while Tony Demaio grabbed the runner-up spot with a 10.07 average. Also going all the way were Wade Atchinson with the 10-second win, Jim Burr with the 11-second win, Casey Badsen with the 12-second win, Ted Bailey with the 13-second win, Joe Giordano with the 14-second win and Jessica Rickey with the 15-second win.

Arrington Performance HEMI Quick presented by Red Line Oil: Bill Cherry collected the win and celebrated in the Aerospace Components Winner's Circle with a better reaction time and a 10.24 over Alan Scruggs, who was a bit quicker with a 9.99.

Dave Duell Nostalgia Super Stock Classic: Brent Wheeler won and Kurt Neighbor was the runner-up in the Indy Cylinder Head FX Shootout; John Hamer won and Mitch Reed was the runner-up in A Class; Kevin Miller won and Shaun Johnston was the runner-up in B Class and Robert Westhoff won and Jerry Kuenster was the runner-up in C Class.

NMCA Quick Fuel Technology Nostalgia Super Stock: Mike Schaefer in his Dart muscled to the win against Matt Bonnet, who was in his Belvedere.

Motor City Muscle Challenge NA 9-inch: The final round belonged to Zach Kuzdal and Patrick McGowan. Kuzdal earned the win with a 9.03 in his Mustang over McGowan, who was 9.45 in his Camaro.

Bracket Mayhem: Scott Stillings had a better reaction time and a 5.72 on a 5.70 to defeat Danny Wood, who ran on his 4.83 dial in Bracket 1, while Zach Gosnell had a better reaction time and a 5.72 on a 5.71 dial to defeat Matthew Dakin, who ran on his 6.67 dial in Bracket 2 and Jason Whisman wrapped up the win despite a breakout time of 13.62 on a 13.64 as Bradley Ducat turned on the red light in Bracket 3. In Bracket Mayhem on Sunday, Danny Wood defeated Craig Richardson with 4.83 on a 4.82 to Richardson’s 5.61 on a 5.60 in Bracket 1, while Matt Reed took out Frankie Radake with a 6.76 on a 6.74 to Radake’s 5.85 on a 5.84 in Bracket 2 and Alan Scanlan picked up the win when Mark Gheer fouled out in Bracket 3.

Teen Mazda Challenge drivers can now choose to race in one of two classes: Spec Miata or the new Spec MX-5 Challenge Series.

NASA and Mazda Expand Teen Mazda Challenge Program

NASA’s Teen Mazda Challenge has long been considered a bridge between karting and Mazda’s ladder to professional motorsports. Now, Teen Mazda Challenge drivers can choose to race in one of two classes: Spec Miata or the new Spec MX-5 Challenge Series. Beginning with the 2021 season, for the California regions, young drivers from ages 13 to 20 can choose from the two classes to go with the chassis that best suits them. An active class since 1999, Spec Miata is competitive, with large fields and close racing. Launched in 2019, Mazda’s latest contribution to spec-class racing, Spec MX-5 uses the third-generation platform of the Mazda MX-5. Spec MX-5 offers a tight rules structure in terms of engine and chassis modifications and large prize offerings, drawing some of the toughest competition club racing has to offer.

The Hot Shot’s Secret-sponsored Firepunk Diesel S-10 Pro Mod race truck slammed down the track to extend the world record to 4.213 seconds at 178 mph in the eighth-mile at last Saturday’s Outlaw Diesel Super Series (ODSS). Photo Credit: Amy Gilbert

Hot Shot’s Secret-Sponsored Firepunk Diesel S-10 Sets New World Record at ODSS Season Finale

The Hot Shot’s Secret-sponsored Firepunk Diesel S-10 Pro Mod race truck not only retained its title as the world’s fastest diesel door slammer, it also slammed down the track to extend the world record to 4.213 seconds at 178 mph in the eighth-mile at last Saturday’s Outlaw Diesel Super Series (ODSS). Driver Larson Miller showed up to the Hardway Sunshine Showdown at Emerald Coast Dragway to secure another Pro Mod championship.

Firepunk Diesel purchased the pink-and-white-wrapped Save the Racks truck in 2019, and gave it a brand-new Hot Shot’s Secret-themed wrap at the beginning of the season. Throughout the season Miller never lost a race. He finished the season with 198 points followed by Ben Shadday at 98 points. This now famous diesel S-10 will finish 2020 going head to head against the fastest gas cars in the nation at No Mercy 11 taking place at South Georgia Motorsports Park in October.

For more racing news, visit Performance Racing Industry’s (PRI) website.

By Della Domingo

Instead of staying at a hotel and packing comfortable shoes, buyers will want to prepare for SEMA360 by setting up their work stations with a comfortable chair and fully charged computer. Taking place 100 percent online, SEMA360 is not meant to be a replacement for the in-person SEMA Show that takes place in Las Vegas.

SEMA360 is, however, a great option for manufacturers and buyers looking for a trade-only environment that is focused on new products, feature vehicles, educational seminars, and bringing industry professionals together to do business. 

Here are some similarities and differences between the SEMA Show and SEMA360.

Manufacturers

SEMA Show: Manufacturers exhibit in physical booths that are eye-catching and often include booth vehicles and product demonstrations. 

SEMA360: Manufacturers will have Showcase pages where images and videos of projects vehicles and product demonstrations will be available. Manufacturers will also have staff on hand during recommended hours for live interactions that can be moved into private meetings.

New Products

SEMA Show: Filled with thousands of the newest products in the automotive industry, the SEMA Show New Products Showcase is the No. 1 destination at the in-person event. It helps buyers and media quickly and easily identify the best new products that are relevant to their businesses. 

SEMA360: Attendees will enjoy the same great features and benefits of New Products Showcase. Products will be included and include photos and details that can be searched and sorted by market segment.

Feature Vehicles

SEMA Show: Feature vehicles are the eye candy of the SEMA Show, with dazzling sports cars and oversized trucks on display throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SEMA360: Hundreds of feature vehicles will be included in the Builder Showcase, where attendees will find photos and videos highlighting the products in action.  

Seminars

SEMA Show: The education program is a pivotal component of the SEMA Show, with seminars available to help all attendees with the most challenging issues and topics.  

SEMA360: The world is changing faster than ever, and staying up-to-date on new strategies and skills is more important than ever. The SEMA360 seminar program includes more than 30 sessions that will educate, motivate and inspire the industry to work smarter and succeed.

Connections

SEMA Show: With industry professionals from all over the world gathered in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show is the best place for manufacturers, buyers and media to connect and network. From the trade show floor to the restaurants and night life in Las Vegas, there are endless opportunities for building business relationships. 

SEMA360: Through private online sessions, manufacturers can connect with buyers or media through SEMA360. There will also be special receptions for larger groups to network and celebrate the industry.

Travel

SEMA Show: For the majority of the industry, attending the SEMA Show requires significant travel and a hotel room.  

SEMA360: Participation is possible from anywhere that has Internet access.

Packing

SEMA Show: Packing for the SEMA Show likely includes comfortable shoes, Chapstick (to ward off the Vegas dry air), a bottle of water, SEMA Show badge and business cards.

SEMA360: No packing necessary, but a dedicated work area with a comfortable chair, fully charged computer, blue light glasses, water and snacks along with the login credentials.

Trade-only

SEMA Show: The SEMA Show is a trade-only event that is not open to the general public. Participants must be employed in the automotive specialty equipment industry.

SEMA360: SEMA360 is focused on the same B2B value and is open only to those working in the automotive specialty equipment industry. The focus of SEMA360 is on doing business and the general public does not qualify to participate.  

Because SEMA360 is a B2B event, attendees may be required to submit qualifying materials and are encouraged to apply early to avoid delays.

Visit www.sema360.com to register today.

By Della Domingo

Instead of staying at a hotel and packing comfortable shoes, buyers will want to prepare for SEMA360 by setting up their work stations with a comfortable chair and fully charged computer. Taking place 100 percent online, SEMA360 is not meant to be a replacement for the in-person SEMA Show that takes place in Las Vegas.

SEMA360 is, however, a great option for manufacturers and buyers looking for a trade-only environment that is focused on new products, feature vehicles, educational seminars, and bringing industry professionals together to do business. 

Here are some similarities and differences between the SEMA Show and SEMA360.

Manufacturers

SEMA Show: Manufacturers exhibit in physical booths that are eye-catching and often include booth vehicles and product demonstrations. 

SEMA360: Manufacturers will have Showcase pages where images and videos of projects vehicles and product demonstrations will be available. Manufacturers will also have staff on hand during recommended hours for live interactions that can be moved into private meetings.

New Products

SEMA Show: Filled with thousands of the newest products in the automotive industry, the SEMA Show New Products Showcase is the No. 1 destination at the in-person event. It helps buyers and media quickly and easily identify the best new products that are relevant to their businesses. 

SEMA360: Attendees will enjoy the same great features and benefits of New Products Showcase. Products will be included and include photos and details that can be searched and sorted by market segment.

Feature Vehicles

SEMA Show: Feature vehicles are the eye candy of the SEMA Show, with dazzling sports cars and oversized trucks on display throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SEMA360: Hundreds of feature vehicles will be included in the Builder Showcase, where attendees will find photos and videos highlighting the products in action.  

Seminars

SEMA Show: The education program is a pivotal component of the SEMA Show, with seminars available to help all attendees with the most challenging issues and topics.  

SEMA360: The world is changing faster than ever, and staying up-to-date on new strategies and skills is more important than ever. The SEMA360 seminar program includes more than 30 sessions that will educate, motivate and inspire the industry to work smarter and succeed.

Connections

SEMA Show: With industry professionals from all over the world gathered in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show is the best place for manufacturers, buyers and media to connect and network. From the trade show floor to the restaurants and night life in Las Vegas, there are endless opportunities for building business relationships. 

SEMA360: Through private online sessions, manufacturers can connect with buyers or media through SEMA360. There will also be special receptions for larger groups to network and celebrate the industry.

Travel

SEMA Show: For the majority of the industry, attending the SEMA Show requires significant travel and a hotel room.  

SEMA360: Participation is possible from anywhere that has Internet access.

Packing

SEMA Show: Packing for the SEMA Show likely includes comfortable shoes, Chapstick (to ward off the Vegas dry air), a bottle of water, SEMA Show badge and business cards.

SEMA360: No packing necessary, but a dedicated work area with a comfortable chair, fully charged computer, blue light glasses, water and snacks along with the login credentials.

Trade-only

SEMA Show: The SEMA Show is a trade-only event that is not open to the general public. Participants must be employed in the automotive specialty equipment industry.

SEMA360: SEMA360 is focused on the same B2B value and is open only to those working in the automotive specialty equipment industry. The focus of SEMA360 is on doing business and the general public does not qualify to participate.  

Because SEMA360 is a B2B event, attendees may be required to submit qualifying materials and are encouraged to apply early to avoid delays.

Visit www.sema360.com to register today.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Campaign season this year has been forced to take on a unique look as not even the presidential election has been able to escape the ongoing changes of a COVID-world. As our nation copes with this trying time, those running for public office are persevering on the remote campaign trail by holding virtual events instead of traditional in-person appearances. What began with more than a dozen presidential candidates has been narrowed to two: incumbent President Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s nominee, and former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party's nominee. Not only will Americans choose the nation’s next president, but voters will also elect all 435 members of the U.S. House, 35 U.S. senators, 13 governors and thousands of state and local leaders, too. With the finish line on the horizon, there is no better time to prepare for and fulfill our civic duty as Americans.

Election day will be here quickly. If you are not able to vote in person on November 3, we encourage automotive enthusiasts to vote early or by absentee ballot.  The voter Information tool on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website provides you with information on your state’s voting dates and deadlines. In advance, find out if your state and federal representatives are affiliated with the hobby-friendly, SEMA-supported caucuses at www.semaSAN.com/StateCaucus and www.semaSAN.com/FederalCaucus. Locate your elected officials under the “Legislators” tab at www.semaSAN.com.  

Why wait? Take action today by planning to vote! On behalf of our industry, take part in our democracy and make your voice heard in November’s election.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Campaign season this year has been forced to take on a unique look as not even the presidential election has been able to escape the ongoing changes of a COVID-world. As our nation copes with this trying time, those running for public office are persevering on the remote campaign trail by holding virtual events instead of traditional in-person appearances. What began with more than a dozen presidential candidates has been narrowed to two: incumbent President Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s nominee, and former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party's nominee. Not only will Americans choose the nation’s next president, but voters will also elect all 435 members of the U.S. House, 35 U.S. senators, 13 governors and thousands of state and local leaders, too. With the finish line on the horizon, there is no better time to prepare for and fulfill our civic duty as Americans.

Election day will be here quickly. If you are not able to vote in person on November 3, we encourage automotive enthusiasts to vote early or by absentee ballot.  The voter Information tool on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website provides you with information on your state’s voting dates and deadlines. In advance, find out if your state and federal representatives are affiliated with the hobby-friendly, SEMA-supported caucuses at www.semaSAN.com/StateCaucus and www.semaSAN.com/FederalCaucus. Locate your elected officials under the “Legislators” tab at www.semaSAN.com.  

Why wait? Take action today by planning to vote! On behalf of our industry, take part in our democracy and make your voice heard in November’s election.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Campaign season this year has been forced to take on a unique look as not even the presidential election has been able to escape the ongoing changes of a COVID-world. As our nation copes with this trying time, those running for public office are persevering on the remote campaign trail by holding virtual events instead of traditional in-person appearances. What began with more than a dozen presidential candidates has been narrowed to two: incumbent President Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s nominee, and former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party's nominee. Not only will Americans choose the nation’s next president, but voters will also elect all 435 members of the U.S. House, 35 U.S. senators, 13 governors and thousands of state and local leaders, too. With the finish line on the horizon, there is no better time to prepare for and fulfill our civic duty as Americans.

Election day will be here quickly. If you are not able to vote in person on November 3, we encourage automotive enthusiasts to vote early or by absentee ballot.  The voter Information tool on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website provides you with information on your state’s voting dates and deadlines. In advance, find out if your state and federal representatives are affiliated with the hobby-friendly, SEMA-supported caucuses at www.semaSAN.com/StateCaucus and www.semaSAN.com/FederalCaucus. Locate your elected officials under the “Legislators” tab at www.semaSAN.com.  

Why wait? Take action today by planning to vote! On behalf of our industry, take part in our democracy and make your voice heard in November’s election.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Campaign season this year has been forced to take on a unique look as not even the presidential election has been able to escape the ongoing changes of a COVID-world. As our nation copes with this trying time, those running for public office are persevering on the remote campaign trail by holding virtual events instead of traditional in-person appearances. What began with more than a dozen presidential candidates has been narrowed to two: incumbent President Donald Trump, the Republican Party’s nominee, and former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic Party's nominee. Not only will Americans choose the nation’s next president, but voters will also elect all 435 members of the U.S. House, 35 U.S. senators, 13 governors and thousands of state and local leaders, too. With the finish line on the horizon, there is no better time to prepare for and fulfill our civic duty as Americans.

Election day will be here quickly. If you are not able to vote in person on November 3, we encourage automotive enthusiasts to vote early or by absentee ballot.  The voter Information tool on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website provides you with information on your state’s voting dates and deadlines. In advance, find out if your state and federal representatives are affiliated with the hobby-friendly, SEMA-supported caucuses at www.semaSAN.com/StateCaucus and www.semaSAN.com/FederalCaucus. Locate your elected officials under the “Legislators” tab at www.semaSAN.com.  

Why wait? Take action today by planning to vote! On behalf of our industry, take part in our democracy and make your voice heard in November’s election.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a controversial Executive Order this week instructing the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to draft regulations requiring that all new cars and passenger trucks sold in the state be zero-emissions by 2035.

Once drafted, CARB’s proposed regulations will be subject to a lengthy regulatory process, including legal, economic, and environmental analyses, public comment and hearings. The Governor’s order is also expected to face numerous legal challenges from opponents.

“SEMA is deeply disappointed in Governor Newsom’s decision to escalate his ongoing feud with the Trump Administration at the expense of the consumer and California’s small businesses,” said Daniel Ingber, SEMA vice president of government and legal affairs. “SEMA will work with the industry and enthusiasts in opposing the Governor’s proposal on all fronts.”

According to the California Energy Commission, zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) currently make up approximately 2% of the over 28-million vehicles in use in the Golden State. It is estimated that at least 8% of new vehicle sales in California will be ZEVs and plug-in hybrids by 2025.

California’s ZEV program falls within the state’s greenhouse gas rule that is being challenged in court by the Trump Administration. The federal government is seeking to withdraw EPA recognition of the California rule under the Clean Air Act because it effectively establishes fuel economy standards, which are the sole jurisdiction of the federal government. The challenge could eventually be decided by the Supreme Court.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a controversial Executive Order this week instructing the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to draft regulations requiring that all new cars and passenger trucks sold in the state be zero-emissions by 2035.

Once drafted, CARB’s proposed regulations will be subject to a lengthy regulatory process, including legal, economic, and environmental analyses, public comment and hearings. The Governor’s order is also expected to face numerous legal challenges from opponents.

“SEMA is deeply disappointed in Governor Newsom’s decision to escalate his ongoing feud with the Trump Administration at the expense of the consumer and California’s small businesses,” said Daniel Ingber, SEMA vice president of government and legal affairs. “SEMA will work with the industry and enthusiasts in opposing the Governor’s proposal on all fronts.”

According to the California Energy Commission, zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) currently make up approximately 2% of the over 28-million vehicles in use in the Golden State. It is estimated that at least 8% of new vehicle sales in California will be ZEVs and plug-in hybrids by 2025.

California’s ZEV program falls within the state’s greenhouse gas rule that is being challenged in court by the Trump Administration. The federal government is seeking to withdraw EPA recognition of the California rule under the Clean Air Act because it effectively establishes fuel economy standards, which are the sole jurisdiction of the federal government. The challenge could eventually be decided by the Supreme Court.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a controversial Executive Order this week instructing the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to draft regulations requiring that all new cars and passenger trucks sold in the state be zero-emissions by 2035.

Once drafted, CARB’s proposed regulations will be subject to a lengthy regulatory process, including legal, economic, and environmental analyses, public comment and hearings. The Governor’s order is also expected to face numerous legal challenges from opponents.

“SEMA is deeply disappointed in Governor Newsom’s decision to escalate his ongoing feud with the Trump Administration at the expense of the consumer and California’s small businesses,” said Daniel Ingber, SEMA vice president of government and legal affairs. “SEMA will work with the industry and enthusiasts in opposing the Governor’s proposal on all fronts.”

According to the California Energy Commission, zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) currently make up approximately 2% of the over 28-million vehicles in use in the Golden State. It is estimated that at least 8% of new vehicle sales in California will be ZEVs and plug-in hybrids by 2025.

California’s ZEV program falls within the state’s greenhouse gas rule that is being challenged in court by the Trump Administration. The federal government is seeking to withdraw EPA recognition of the California rule under the Clean Air Act because it effectively establishes fuel economy standards, which are the sole jurisdiction of the federal government. The challenge could eventually be decided by the Supreme Court.