By Natalie Simon

The 2024 SEMA Show is done and dusted, but that doesn't mean that we've come off the high yet.

There were so many events and networking opportunities that happened during the week and the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) had several touchpoints throughout the show.

North Hall featured the SBN booth, where members and guests could take some time to sit back, relax, charge their phones and get to know more about what SBN has to offer. If you didn't have the opportunity to visit, you missed out! But you still have the opportunity to become a part of SBN. Visit the SBN website, join our socials, and fill out a spotlight! Also, don't forget about the 2025 Women's Leadership Forum in Orlando, Florida, on March 11–13, 2025.

SBN hosted a lot of great events throughout the week at the SEMA Show:

"Empower Yourself: Harnessing the Potential of AI for Women in the Automotive and Specialty-Equipment Market, Powered by SBN" was a beginner's introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) in its many forms and reviewing how it could be tailored to your benefit. In this course, Lauren McCullough, CEO at Tromml, provided real-world experiences and interactive sessions and leaned into the tools that we have available to make AI for our industry and the work that we do!

On Tuesday evening, SBN hosted their reception, which provided a great networking opportunity for people inside and outside of SBN. We also awarded Rebeca Olavarrieta the #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year Award – an award that is greatly cherished and sought after. Olavarrieta's dedication, leadership and hard work shine through her smile and all that she has done for SEMA and SBN. She's committed to excellence with everything that she does. Congratulations to Rebeca!

The "Network Effect" session, hosted by SBN, provided an area for women in the industry to network and connect with each other. This is always a great opportunity for anyone who attends--opening up paths and opportunities for career expansion, business idea flow and a good old-fashioned conversation.

Lastly, Gear-Up Girl is always an event that we look forward to! This girls-only event is for female automotive professionals to connect with other female students looking to get more involved in the industry--and provides another networking opportunity for professionals to share their words of wisdom, paths to success and any tips of the trade. Best of luck to all of the students who attended! We look forward to hearing from you and what tips and tricks worked for your journey.

We know that the 2025 SEMA Show will be here just as quickly as the 2024 Show passed--and we're all looking forward to another great year. Cheers to a fantastic finish to 2024 and we wish you a great 2025!

By SEMA News Editors

Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have unveiled their wearable robot 'X-ble Shoulder,' a device that, just by being worn, can increase workers' efficiency and reduce musculoskeletal injuries.

The X-ble Shoulder is an industrial wearable robot developed by Hyundai Motor and Kia's Robotics Lab. When used in 'overhead work' where the arm is raised, it can assist the user's upper arm muscle strength and reduce the burden on the upper extremity musculoskeletal system.

According to Hyundai, the X-ble Shoulder can reduce shoulder load by up to 60% and anterior/lateral deltoid muscle activity by up to 30%. The device is made from carbon composite and wear-resistant materials used in high-end vehicles.

The companies plan to apply the technology to Hyundai Motor and Kia's production and maintenance departments. Then, from the mid-'20s onward, they plan to expand sales not only to the 27 affiliates of Hyundai Motor Group but also to external companies. In 2026, they aim to enter overseas markets, such as Europe and North America, based on domestic South Korean market sales experience, and plan to expand sales to other industries, such as construction, shipbuilding, aviation, agriculture and automobiles.

For more information, visit hyundaimotorgroup.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are a few of the latest postings, including the following SEMA Garage Detroit listing:

SEMA Garage Detroit

Emissions Lab Mechanic in Detroit, Michigan

This position will be responsible for assisting day-to-day operations of the SEMA Garage Detroit Emission Lab, Product Development/Installation Center and ADAS Research facilities. The mechanic will also be responsible for the installation of aftermarket products, OBD diagnostic scanning among more duties.

Aldan American

Sales Assistant in Signal Hill, California

Aldan American is looking for a professional sales assistant to join its sales team. This person will play a critical role in supporting the sales team by handling daily order entry, customer inquiries and administrative tasks.

By SEMA News Editors

Hoonigan Successfully Completes Financial Restructuring

Hoonigan and Wheel Pros, LLC, has successfully completed its financial restructuring and emerged from its Chapter 11 process following confirmation of the company's plan of reorganization earlier this year.

Through its financial restructuring, Hoonigan has eliminated approximately $1.2 billion of debt and secured access to a $175 million asset-backed loan facility. 

"With a strong financial foundation, Hoonigan is poised to continue delivering innovative and industry-leading products well into the future," the company said in a statement announcing the completed restructuring.

For more information, visit hoonigan.com.
 

Monterey Motorsports Festival Announces Adam Langsbard as Managing Director

Monterey Motorsports Festival (MMF) has announced automotive executive Adam Langsbard as managing director, who will be responsible for numerous facets of the event. Langsbard brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in the automotive and marketing sector.

"Monterey Motorsports Festival is perfectly poised to become the Saturday Car Week destination in Monterey.  In 2024, we secured a foothold in the car culture community with nearly 7,000 in attendance, a fantastic variety of cars on display, music, food, activities for children and more. Our future requires a road map to success, and bringing Adam aboard is going to be key to reaching our goals," said Paolo Manca, founder and CEO of MMF.

Most recently, Adam served as the vice president of sales and marketing at Velocity Invitational, a three-day luxury motorsports festival based in Sonoma, California.

The 2025 MMF is scheduled for August 16, 2025, at the iconic Monterey County Fair & Event Center in Monterey, California.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit montereymotorsportsfestival.com.
 

Automotive Series From Brenton Productions Return to MotorTrendTV, Discovery+ and Max in 2025

Three automotive series from Brenton Productions have been renewed for MotorTrendTV, Warner Bros. Discovery's linear channel dedicated entirely to the motoring world.

The returning series include long-running shows "Two Guys Garage" and "Truck U," as well as a second-season order for "Build for Off Road," which premiered earlier this year. All three automotive how-to shows will also be available to stream on Discovery+ and Max.

"MotorTrendTV looks forward to continuing to work with Brenton Productions in 2025 and having their projects complement our slate of premieres will be a great addition to our lineup" says Rick Holzman, SVP of programming and strategy for MotorTrend.

"We're thrilled to continue our longstanding relationship with MotorTrendTV," says Chuck McGonagle, president of Brenton Productions. "We're already in the process of planning exciting and engaging projects for our viewers to enjoy and get inspired by as they tune in to all of our automotive series in 2025."

"Two Guys Garage" enters its 24th season on the air with expert gearheads Kevin Byrd and Willie B sharing their wealth of technical knowledge through DIY tips, demonstrations and deep dives into the latest aftermarket innovations.

"Truck U" will return for its 21st season on-air with monster truck expert Matt Steele and master mechanic Bruno Massel tackling truck, Jeep and off-road projects with humor and fun.

"Build for Off Road" starring Ian Johnson returns for its second season on MotorTrendTV, continuing to capture the off-road lifestyle with projects ranging from slow-moving rock crawlers to high-horsepower hill climbers and everything in between.

For more information, visit brentontv.com.
 

Mitas TERRA FORCE-EF Tires Chosen as Original Fitment for Sherco Enduro Racing Bikes

Mitas' TERRA FORCE-EF tires in SUPER version, expressly designed for Fast Enduro, were selected as original equipment fitment for the 2025 Sherco Racing models.

The partnership is Mitas' first-ever collaboration with the French motorcycle manufacturer.

"We are proud to be the brand selected by Sherco as their original equipment tire supplier for the racing models," said Gustavo Pinto Teixeria, head of Mitas Motorcycle Tires. "It will be a real game changer in competitions and is a testament to the excellence of our Mitas products. The Mitas TERRA FORCE-EF tires are the perfect choice for riders looking to enhance their riding experience and tackle any off-road terrain."

For more information, visit mitas-moto.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Mercedes-Benz is gearing up for its next generation of luxury electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States, starting with its upcoming all-electric mid-size SUV, the GLC EV, set to debut in late 2025. The GLC EV represents a shift in the automaker's naming strategy as the company moves away from the "EQ" branding in favor of more conventional names. This SUV, previously referred to as the EQC, will now carry a simpler nameplate under the GLC lineup.

Since its early sightings in August 2023, several updates have been made to the design. Recently captured images from SEMA News sources from reveal significant changes to the front end, including a redesigned hood and grille that give the vehicle a taller and more upright profile. The rear has also evolved, showcasing production-ready taillights and a clean, unclad trunk lid.

Built on Mercedes-Benz's MB.EA platform for medium and large EVs, the GLC EV will feature an 800V electrical system, advanced silicon carbide inverters and highly efficient radial flux motors. Buyers will have the option of rear- or all-wheel drive, with power output ranging from 250 to 500 hp.

Incorporating innovations from the experimental EQXX, the GLC EV will also utilize a two-speed gearbox to boost efficiency, and a 100kWh battery is expected, potentially delivering a range of nearly 620 miles, according to sources.

The GLC EV's development aligns with Mercedes' broader electrification strategy. Sharing its platform with the upcoming all-electric C-Class sedan--also due in 2025 or 2026--it will help bridge the gap as Mercedes phases out traditional wagons like the C-Class Estate.

By SEMA News Editors

Car and Driver has revealed its list of "10Best Cars for 2025," the publication's annual list of top new models introduced for the year.

With a price cap of $110,000, the magazine's staff and contributors spend two weeks testing available vehicles, then vote on the competitors to finalize the 10Best list.

See the 10Best Cars for 2025 below and read Car and Driver's thoughts on each vehicle here:

Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing

Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing

Chevrolet Corvette

Honda Accord

Honda Civic

Lucid Air

Mercedes-Benz E450

Porsche Boxster/Cayman

Subaru BRZ/Toyota GR86

Tesla Model 3 Long Range

Click here to see Car and Driver's "10Best of 2025."

By SEMA News Editors

Off-Road Industry Mourns Loss of ORMHoF Inductees Malcolm Smith and Mary McGee

The Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame has announced the passing of inductees Malcolm Smith and Mary McGee.

Smith was a member of the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame inaugural Class of 1978, and McGee was enshrined in 2023. Both competed in four-wheel classes but made their respective marks of the off-road racing history books on two-wheels, the Hall of Fame said in a statement celebrating the lives of the inductees.

Click here to read the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame's tribute to both Smith and McGee.
 

Stratasys Becomes Official 3D Printing Partner of NASCAR

NASCAR has announced an expanded long-term technical partnership with Stratasys, making the company the official 3D printing partner of NASCAR. NASCAR will now exclusively use Stratasys 3D printing technology for the design and production of parts and tools across NASCAR, replacing previous technologies used alongside Stratasys solutions.

A new state-of-the-art 3D printing lab is also set to open at the NASCAR Research & Development Center in Concord, North Carolina. The facility features multiple Stratasys technologies, including F370, 450mc, F900 (FDM printers) and a NEO800 (SL printer) to support research and development, parts production and tooling for NASCAR's three national series.

As part of the expanded partnership, Stratasys will also increase the existing FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) capabilities within the NASCAR R&D center, allowing for larger-scale part production. In addition to FDM technology, NASCAR will now integrate Stratasys NEO stereolithography (SL). These technologies will support a variety of applications, from aerodynamic testing to prototyping and production of parts with high-precision tooling, further enhancing the design and manufacturing flexibility that 3D printing brings to the sport.

For more information, visit nascar.com.

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com. Read more racing industry news on performanceracing.com/industry-news.

The following is a message to SEMA Members from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola:

Dear SEMA Member:

A strong SEMA Board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. As a member of the association, we are currently seeking your recommendation of industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors.

The following seats are open for this year's election:

• Chair-elect (one open seat)
• Manufacturer (three open seats)
• Manufacturers' Rep (one open seat)

Please take a moment and tell us whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a Board member position by completing and submitting a nomination form. To help the vetting process, include brief information about the nominee's qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements that would make that nominee an outstanding board candidate.

Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors are due on Monday, January 6, 2025.

Submit a nomination HERE.

We urge you to take part in the nominations process. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the Board, but we need you to help bring them to the attention of the Nominating Committee. Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Sincerely,

Mike Spagnola

SEMA President and CEO

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Most small businesses have until December 31, 2024, to file a new, required report with the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) on their organization's beneficial owners. Beneficial ownership information (BOI) reports are a requirement under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), a 2021 federal law to enhance transparency in entity structures and ownership to combat money laundering, tax fraud, and other illicit activities. The CTA imposes reporting obligations on all business entities within the scope of the "reporting company" definition under the statute.  

However, small businesses can be exempted from filing a report with FinCEN if they meet the following three criteria: 

• Employ more than 20 employees; 
• Operate a physical office in the U.S.; and 
• Filed federal tax returns demonstrating more than $5 million in gross receipts or sales. 

The CTA defines a "beneficial owner" as an individual who, directly or indirectly, exercises substantial control over the reporting company or owns or controls at least 25% of the ownership interests of the reporting company. An individual exercises "substantial control" over an entity if the individual: 

• Serves as a senior officer. 
• Has authority over the appointment or removal of a senior officer or a majority of the board of directors. 
• Directs, determines or has substantial influence over important business decisions. 

Beneficial ownership information reporting is not an annual requirement. Businesses only must file a report with FINCEN once unless the filer needs to update or correct information about their company's beneficial ownership. Generally, reporting companies must provide four pieces of information about each beneficial owner: 

• Name.
• Date of birth. 
• Address. 
• The identifying number and issuer from either a non-expired U.S. driver's license, a non-expired U.S. passport or a non-expired identification document issued by a State (including a U.S. territory or possession), local government, or Indian tribe. If none of those documents exist, a non-expired foreign passport can be used. An image of the document must also be submitted. 

Companies must also submit certain information about themselves, such as their name(s) and address. In addition, reporting companies created on or after January 1, 2024, must submit information about the individuals who formed the company ("company applicants"). 

Filers can also view informational videos and webinars, find answers to frequently asked questions, connect to the contact center and learn more about how to report at fincen.gov/boi. Also, SEMA member companies can listen to a webinar on the BOI reporting requirements here. There is no charge for SEMA members, as the association is a member of the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC), which hosted the webinar. Click here to register for the webinar replay.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Most small businesses have until December 31, 2024, to file a new, required report with the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) on their organization's beneficial owners. Beneficial ownership information (BOI) reports are a requirement under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), a 2021 federal law to enhance transparency in entity structures and ownership to combat money laundering, tax fraud, and other illicit activities. The CTA imposes reporting obligations on all business entities within the scope of the "reporting company" definition under the statute.  

However, small businesses can be exempted from filing a report with FinCEN if they meet the following three criteria: 

• Employ more than 20 employees; 
• Operate a physical office in the U.S.; and 
• Filed federal tax returns demonstrating more than $5 million in gross receipts or sales. 

The CTA defines a "beneficial owner" as an individual who, directly or indirectly, exercises substantial control over the reporting company or owns or controls at least 25% of the ownership interests of the reporting company. An individual exercises "substantial control" over an entity if the individual: 

• Serves as a senior officer. 
• Has authority over the appointment or removal of a senior officer or a majority of the board of directors. 
• Directs, determines or has substantial influence over important business decisions. 

Beneficial ownership information reporting is not an annual requirement. Businesses only must file a report with FINCEN once unless the filer needs to update or correct information about their company's beneficial ownership. Generally, reporting companies must provide four pieces of information about each beneficial owner: 

• Name.
• Date of birth. 
• Address. 
• The identifying number and issuer from either a non-expired U.S. driver's license, a non-expired U.S. passport or a non-expired identification document issued by a State (including a U.S. territory or possession), local government, or Indian tribe. If none of those documents exist, a non-expired foreign passport can be used. An image of the document must also be submitted. 

Companies must also submit certain information about themselves, such as their name(s) and address. In addition, reporting companies created on or after January 1, 2024, must submit information about the individuals who formed the company ("company applicants"). 

Filers can also view informational videos and webinars, find answers to frequently asked questions, connect to the contact center and learn more about how to report at fincen.gov/boi. Also, SEMA member companies can listen to a webinar on the BOI reporting requirements here. There is no charge for SEMA members, as the association is a member of the Small Business Legislative Council (SBLC), which hosted the webinar. Click here to register for the webinar replay.

For more information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org.