Tue, 02/17/2026 - 06:40

By SEMA News Editors

Hemmings Launches Max Bid on Hemmings.com

Hemmings Max Bid


Hemmings, the collector car marketplace, has announced that "Max Bid" is now live. Max Bid is a new buyer tool on Hemmings.com that allows bidders to set the maximum price they’re willing to pay for a vehicle. Once set, the Hemmings system automatically places bids on the buyer's behalf in predefined increments, competing with other live bidders until the auction closes or the buyer's maximum is reached. The feature is designed to deliver confidence, convenience and control, while preserving fair and transparent auction dynamics.

Max Bid is part of Hemmings' broader effort to create a more frictionless buying experience for collectors. Paired with tools like "Pay + Title," "Hemmings Motor Club," "Valuations" and "Price Guidance," Max Bid is designed to help simplify every stage of the vehicle purchasing journey on Hemmings.com.

At-a-glance highlights:

  • "Set-it-and-forget-it" automatic bidding up to a buyer’s chosen maximum.
  • No additional fees and no change to standard auction rules or increments.
  • Buyers pay the lowest possible winning price, not their full maximum.
  • Designed for time-strapped buyers who want to bid confidently without monitoring auctions in real time.

For more information, visit Hemmings.com.

 

 

Hellwig Products 80th Anniversary

 

Hellwig Products, a manufacturer of towing, hauling and performance suspension products, is celebrating its 80th anniversary in 2026.

The milestone achievement also comes alongside fourth-generation CEO Melanie Hellwig-White's first year as SEMA chairperson. Hellwig will mark its 80th anniversary with updated branding at various events throughout the year and will host an open house to celebrate its original incorporation date in September 1946.

Since its founding, Hellwig has manufactured OEM-plus-level sway bars and helper springs for a wide variety of American and foreign vehicles. The brand's passion for providing customers with upgraded towing capabilities, comfort and safety in their SUVs and trucks has endured for more than four generations of ownership. Today, Hellwig continues to use American steel for all its products at its headquarters in Visalia, California.

"Over the last 80 years, the Hellwig family and staff have been proud to support millions of Americans who trust our products on the vehicles they use every day," said Hellwig-White. "While many things have changed over the years, we're excited to continue offering second-to-none, American-made products for those who need the most out of their vehicle's suspension."

Hellwig Products will be celebrating its 80th anniversary with special branding throughout 2026 at various events across the country, including the 2026 SEMA Show. The brand also plans to host an open house and BBQ cookout at its headquarters in early September for those who want to tour the factory and gather to honor the longstanding brand's legacy. Keep an eye on Hellwig's social media channels for more information about the open house.

For more information, visit hellwigproducts.com.

Mon, 02/16/2026 - 11:08

By SEMA News Editors

 

Wilwood Engineering
CPB Caliper for Narrow Rotors
Wilwod CPB Caliper

 

Wilwood has introduced a new narrower rotor size application for its Hydra-Mechanical Combination Parking Brake (CPB) caliper, now compatible with 0.38-in. wide rotors, expanding options for builders using 11- to 13-in. rotors on rear brake systems. Designed specifically for rear axle applications where traditional internal drum-style parking brakes are impractical, the caliper features a single stainless steel piston floating design that mounts to a fixed radial bracket, delivering strength, durability and multiple mounting configurations.

wilwood.com

Mon, 02/16/2026 - 04:48

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 some of the latest postings.

 

Enthusiast Auto Holdings

Brand Manager in Wadsworth, Ohio

Enthusiast Auto Holdings (EAH) is seeking a Brand Manager for its Turner Motorsport brand to set both short-term and long-term strategic direction and goals for Turner Motorsport and EAH's BMW business, and achieve these goals in collaboration with the research and development, marketing, sale and purchase, sales and customer service teams.

 

Feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | People Images

Mon, 02/16/2026 - 02:35

By SEMA News Editors

INDYCAR Chevy Honda

 

INDYCAR has announced a multi-year commitment from Chevrolet and Honda to continue as official original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of INDYCAR and the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Each OEM agreement will commence in 2027 and run for multiple years, reflecting the upward trajectory of the sport and new investments in its growth.

The new commitment from Chevrolet and Honda represents a significant financial investment in North America's premier open-wheel series. It is also an endorsement of the momentum and continued growth of the series. Both manufacturers will also be heavily involved in the development of the engine and competition rules to be implemented with the new NTT INDYCAR SERIES car, which is expected to begin competition in 2028.

"This is a monumental day for INDYCAR, fueled by a massive and historic commitment from two of our best and most trusted partners," INDYCAR President J. Douglas Boles said. "Chevrolet and Honda have worked tirelessly with us over the last 12 months to get to this point, and both have made it very clear that they are fully committed to this sport and invested in continuing the positive momentum the series generated in 2025."

"Chevrolet has enjoyed a long, successful relationship with INDYCAR as an engine manufacturer, and this extension paves the way for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES to continue to grow and for us to further maximize technology transfer from race to road," General Motors President Mark Reuss said. "The addition of a charter allows Chevrolet to join with other stakeholders to continue to make the series even stronger. INDYCAR produces consistently exciting racing on road and street courses as well as ovals, and we look forward to building on our INDYCAR legacy and put on a great show for our loyal Chevrolet fans."

"To our esteemed Honda fans, customers and associates, we are thrilled to announce our ongoing participation in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES," Honda Racing Corporation USA President David Salters said. "With a deep respect for the history and competitive spirit of INDYCAR racing, we are proud to continue our involvement after more than 30 years. This long-standing commitment strengthens our ability to allow us to further develop our people and technology at the pinnacle of open-wheel racing in North America.

"The partnership between INDYCAR and FOX continues to grow, bringing outstanding race coverage and elevating the experience for fans everywhere. The future of INDYCAR looks incredibly bright, and we at Honda are honored to play a critical role in its continued success."

This multiyear announcement extends Chevrolet's current participation in the INDYCAR SERIES. Chevrolet has been a nine-time champion since its return to the sport 14 seasons ago in 2012. Including the 1988-93 and 2002 titles, Chevrolet has won 16 total INDYCAR SERIES manufacturer championships.

Honda began INDYCAR SERIES competition in 1994 and has been a continuous and key fixture on INDYCAR grids as an engine supplier for over 30 years--including six seasons as the sole engine supplier. The 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season marked its 11th manufacturers' title in multiple manufacturer competition and the fifth in the last eight years.

In addition to commitments made in engine development, engine supply and promotion of the series, each manufacturer will be entitled to own a charter to be utilized beginning with the 2028 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season.

"As charter entrants in 2028, Chevrolet and Honda now have a new and exciting opportunity to build on their incredible legacies across INDYCAR SERIES racing, while continuing their strong relationships with our current roster of teams and helping deliver an innovative and industry-leading new car in 2028," Boles said.

The INDYCAR charter system was originally announced in September 2024. Charters were extended to teams based on full-time entries from the 2022-23 season, with a maximum of three awarded per team. NTT INDYCAR SERIES teams with three charters are not eligible to utilize a fourth charter via an OEM.

Complete details of the powertrain parameters to be utilized with the new 2.4-L, twin-turbocharged V6 engine with hybrid technology and introduced with the 2028 NTT INDYCAR SERIES car will be announced at a later date.

The 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season begins Sunday, March 1, at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on the Streets of St. Petersburg, Florida. Coverage of the race begins at noon ET on FOX, FOX Deportes, FOX One and the FOX Sports app. Audio coverage will be available via the INDYCAR Radio Network on SiriusXM Channel 218 and the INDYCAR App powered by NTT DATA.

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 09:23

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

 

Is the Hyundai Elantra Finally Going to Europe?
Hyundai Elantra

 

The next-generation Hyundai Elantra (codenamed CN8) has been caught testing in Europe's cold north. These images confirm that Hyundai is doubling down on its futuristic, coupe-inspired design language for the '26 Elantra. German registration plates fuel speculation that the new Elantra might finally make it to Europe.

The Elantra CN8's headlights reveal a dramatic evolution from the current model. The new setup features rectangular LED modules integrated within a wide sculpted grille section reminiscent of the Hyundai N Vision 74 concept. A continuous LED daytime running light (DRL) strip runs horizontally across the front fascia, creating a sleek, high-tech look that stands out vividly at night.

This lighting signature gives the Elantra a wider stance and a more aggressive road presence, signaling Hyundai's move toward a bolder design philosophy across its sedan lineup.

Hyundai Elantra

 

Moving to the rear, the taillight cluster is equally striking. The spy shots reveal a full-width LED bar stretching across the trunk connecting both taillamps into a single continuous light signature. The horizontal beam is flanked by sharp, triangular lighting elements that echo the N Vision 74's retro-futuristic aesthetic.

This setup, combined with muscular rear haunches and aggressive fender lines, gives the new Elantra a sportier and more premium visual character compared to its predecessor.

While many competitors are rapidly transitioning to fully electric powertrains, Hyundai appears committed to offering one more internal combustion generation of the Elantra. Insiders report that delays in Hyundai's EV rollout have pushed the company to focus on a refreshed gasoline-powered lineup with hybrid and LPG variants expected to complement the range.

Hyundai Elantra

 

Powertrain options are likely to include a 1.6L gasoline engine, an LPG variant (for select markets) and hybrid powertrains. This combination should deliver familiar reliability and efficiency while maintaining accessibility for mainstream buyers.

The coupe-inspired silhouette, bold character lines and low, wide stance draw direct inspiration from Hyundai's acclaimed N Vision 74 concept car. The new Elantra blends retro styling cues with modern aerodynamic proportions, creating a unique identity that bridges Hyundai's performance-oriented and mainstream design directions.

According to industry sources, the all-new Hyundai Elantra (CN8) is scheduled for a global debut in 2026.

 

2026 Mercedes-AMG C43 Receives a Makeover
Mercedes-AMG C43

 

You're looking at the first images that confirm what everyone expected. As the Mercedes C-Class is set to receive a mild facelift, the AMG-powered C43 will also get front and rear modifications, including a nod to the company's brand logo in the taillights: the three-pointed star. Judging from the camouflage, changes will also be made to the front bumper as well as the grille. There will also be revisions to the inner graphics of the headlights, which will mirror what Mercedes plans for the rear light units. Like other Mercedes models, the C-Class will feature daytime running lights in the shape of the three-pointed star.

Mercedes-AMG C43

 

Mercedes-AMG will also improve the perceived quality of the interior with new materials that are more pleasant to the touch, but there will be no design revolution. The C-Class will feature a revised MBUX system and new safety and comfort features inherited from its larger siblings.

Mercedes-AMG C43

 

The German brand will not make any major changes to the mechanical components, just a simple optimization to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by adjusting the ratios of the automatic transmission. The Mercedes C-Class is expected to be unveiled in spring 2026 and go on sale in midsummer that year, with the AMG-tuned C43 following shortly after.

 

Dressing Up for the Next Decade: Facelift for the Range Rover
Range Rover

 

On the market since 2022, the fifth-generation Range Rover, code-named L460, is due for a facelift. Our photographer in northern Sweden has captured the first shots of the revised model, which is likely to debut sometime in 2027 or 2028.

Range Rover

 

With new electrified gasoline and diesel engines on offer since 2023, the update to the Rangie will likely be limited to minor exterior changes, such as revised headlight and taillight signatures and redesigned front and rear bumpers, along with modernized tech features for connectivity, navigation and entertainment.

The Range Rover will continue with internal combustion engine power but will also be offered as a fully electric vehicle. It will also remain available in an extended wheelbase version for five or seven passengers.

Range Rover

 

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 09:23

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

 

Is the Hyundai Elantra Finally Going to Europe?
Hyundai Elantra

 

The next-generation Hyundai Elantra (codenamed CN8) has been caught testing in Europe's cold north. These images confirm that Hyundai is doubling down on its futuristic, coupe-inspired design language for the '26 Elantra. German registration plates fuel speculation that the new Elantra might finally make it to Europe.

The Elantra CN8's headlights reveal a dramatic evolution from the current model. The new setup features rectangular LED modules integrated within a wide sculpted grille section reminiscent of the Hyundai N Vision 74 concept. A continuous LED daytime running light (DRL) strip runs horizontally across the front fascia, creating a sleek, high-tech look that stands out vividly at night.

This lighting signature gives the Elantra a wider stance and a more aggressive road presence, signaling Hyundai's move toward a bolder design philosophy across its sedan lineup.

Hyundai Elantra

 

Moving to the rear, the taillight cluster is equally striking. The spy shots reveal a full-width LED bar stretching across the trunk connecting both taillamps into a single continuous light signature. The horizontal beam is flanked by sharp, triangular lighting elements that echo the N Vision 74's retro-futuristic aesthetic.

This setup, combined with muscular rear haunches and aggressive fender lines, gives the new Elantra a sportier and more premium visual character compared to its predecessor.

While many competitors are rapidly transitioning to fully electric powertrains, Hyundai appears committed to offering one more internal combustion generation of the Elantra. Insiders report that delays in Hyundai's EV rollout have pushed the company to focus on a refreshed gasoline-powered lineup with hybrid and LPG variants expected to complement the range.

Hyundai Elantra

 

Powertrain options are likely to include a 1.6L gasoline engine, an LPG variant (for select markets) and hybrid powertrains. This combination should deliver familiar reliability and efficiency while maintaining accessibility for mainstream buyers.

The coupe-inspired silhouette, bold character lines and low, wide stance draw direct inspiration from Hyundai's acclaimed N Vision 74 concept car. The new Elantra blends retro styling cues with modern aerodynamic proportions, creating a unique identity that bridges Hyundai's performance-oriented and mainstream design directions.

According to industry sources, the all-new Hyundai Elantra (CN8) is scheduled for a global debut in 2026.

 

2026 Mercedes-AMG C43 Receives a Makeover
Mercedes-AMG C43

 

You're looking at the first images that confirm what everyone expected. As the Mercedes C-Class is set to receive a mild facelift, the AMG-powered C43 will also get front and rear modifications, including a nod to the company's brand logo in the taillights: the three-pointed star. Judging from the camouflage, changes will also be made to the front bumper as well as the grille. There will also be revisions to the inner graphics of the headlights, which will mirror what Mercedes plans for the rear light units. Like other Mercedes models, the C-Class will feature daytime running lights in the shape of the three-pointed star.

Mercedes-AMG C43

 

Mercedes-AMG will also improve the perceived quality of the interior with new materials that are more pleasant to the touch, but there will be no design revolution. The C-Class will feature a revised MBUX system and new safety and comfort features inherited from its larger siblings.

Mercedes-AMG C43

 

The German brand will not make any major changes to the mechanical components, just a simple optimization to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by adjusting the ratios of the automatic transmission. The Mercedes C-Class is expected to be unveiled in spring 2026 and go on sale in midsummer that year, with the AMG-tuned C43 following shortly after.

 

Dressing Up for the Next Decade: Facelift for the Range Rover
Range Rover

 

On the market since 2022, the fifth-generation Range Rover, code-named L460, is due for a facelift. Our photographer in northern Sweden has captured the first shots of the revised model, which is likely to debut sometime in 2027 or 2028.

Range Rover

 

With new electrified gasoline and diesel engines on offer since 2023, the update to the Rangie will likely be limited to minor exterior changes, such as revised headlight and taillight signatures and redesigned front and rear bumpers, along with modernized tech features for connectivity, navigation and entertainment.

The Range Rover will continue with internal combustion engine power but will also be offered as a fully electric vehicle. It will also remain available in an extended wheelbase version for five or seven passengers.

Range Rover

 

Thu, 02/12/2026 - 23:28

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

internal combustion engine (ICE) photo courtesy of Shutterstock


SEMA is celebrating the Trump Administration's decision to rescind the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, dubious policy positions that empowered regulators at the federal and state levels to override consumer choices on vehicles. Among those abuses were federal- and state-led efforts to ban internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and impose nationwide electric vehicle (EV) mandates. 

  • By following through with its intent to repeal the GHG endangerment finding, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is unleashing innovation in a significant segment of the automotive aftermarket industry that is entirely dependent on ICE technology. That segment, which has a $100 billion annual economic impact, and employs more than 330,000 Americans, is now free to rely on free-market solutions to our emissions challenges. 

"This is a tremendous decision by the EPA to course-correct after nearly two decades of abuses by previous administrations at the federal and state levels, and instead return sanity to our nation’s environmental policies," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "It was with great trepidation that SEMA watched our nation’s leaders demonize and ban the very motor vehicles that serve as the bedrock upon which the American people--families, small businesses, and automotive enthusiasts--rely to live their best, most prosperous lives. It was even more infuriating to watch these policymakers brazenly justify their actions with a dubious policy position that now rightly goes away, to be replaced with a common-sense, free-market view of what drives our nation’s prosperity."

BACKGROUND 

  • The EPA's decision will directly impact federal new car requirements and does not impact existing emissions laws established by the Clean Air Act. Instead, it will ensure that automakers produce vehicles driven by consumer demand, rather than greenhouse gas limits, that latter of which has significantly influenced the models of vehicles available to the American people since 2009. This policy shift will directly impact the range of new vehicle choices that exist in the coming years.  
  • In comments responding to the EPA's rulemaking for Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OAR–2025–0194 — Reconsideration of the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, SEMA identified economic and cultural considerations for re-establishing a foundation of vehicle choice in the U.S. automotive market, which, because of recent GHG emissions policies, have experienced an erosion of affordability and innovation. 
  • SEMA and its 7,000 member businesses are the heart of the U.S. automotive aftermarket industry, which annually contributes more than $337 billion to the U.S. economy and supports more than 1.3 million American jobs.  
  • Most of the businesses that make up the aftermarket are small businesses, but there is nothing small about the innovation and ingenuity they show every day. The products that aftermarket businesses manufacture, sell, and distribute to automotive enthusiasts worldwide are a testament to our nation’s engineering superiority. 
  • The SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the largest trade show in North America, with 160,000 attendees expected, annually includes the centerpiece “FutureTech Studio” activation, where the organization showcases different propulsion technologies, including EV, hybrid, hydrogen, alternative fuels, and other technological advancements that represent the “what’s next, what’s possible” of the American automotive industry.  
  • SEMA is not anti-EV, nor will it ever be. Rather, SEMA is passionate about protecting the freedom of businesses to deliver the next groundbreaking product, and the American consumer’s freedom to choose whether that product fits their needs and lifestyle. Such innovation can only be delivered through technology-neutral government policy and by allowing the marketplace to drive demand for these products. 

ABOUT SEMA 

SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun and even like new again. 

Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy and more.

The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates $52.3 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit sema.org.  

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Rost9

Thu, 02/12/2026 - 23:28

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

internal combustion engine (ICE) photo courtesy of Shutterstock


SEMA is celebrating the Trump Administration's decision to rescind the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, dubious policy positions that empowered regulators at the federal and state levels to override consumer choices on vehicles. Among those abuses were federal- and state-led efforts to ban internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and impose nationwide electric vehicle (EV) mandates. 

  • By following through with its intent to repeal the GHG endangerment finding, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is unleashing innovation in a significant segment of the automotive aftermarket industry that is entirely dependent on ICE technology. That segment, which has a $100 billion annual economic impact, and employs more than 330,000 Americans, is now free to rely on free-market solutions to our emissions challenges. 

"This is a tremendous decision by the EPA to course-correct after nearly two decades of abuses by previous administrations at the federal and state levels, and instead return sanity to our nation’s environmental policies," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "It was with great trepidation that SEMA watched our nation’s leaders demonize and ban the very motor vehicles that serve as the bedrock upon which the American people--families, small businesses, and automotive enthusiasts--rely to live their best, most prosperous lives. It was even more infuriating to watch these policymakers brazenly justify their actions with a dubious policy position that now rightly goes away, to be replaced with a common-sense, free-market view of what drives our nation’s prosperity."

BACKGROUND 

  • The EPA's decision will directly impact federal new car requirements and does not impact existing emissions laws established by the Clean Air Act. Instead, it will ensure that automakers produce vehicles driven by consumer demand, rather than greenhouse gas limits, that latter of which has significantly influenced the models of vehicles available to the American people since 2009. This policy shift will directly impact the range of new vehicle choices that exist in the coming years.  
  • In comments responding to the EPA's rulemaking for Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OAR–2025–0194 — Reconsideration of the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, SEMA identified economic and cultural considerations for re-establishing a foundation of vehicle choice in the U.S. automotive market, which, because of recent GHG emissions policies, have experienced an erosion of affordability and innovation. 
  • SEMA and its 7,000 member businesses are the heart of the U.S. automotive aftermarket industry, which annually contributes more than $337 billion to the U.S. economy and supports more than 1.3 million American jobs.  
  • Most of the businesses that make up the aftermarket are small businesses, but there is nothing small about the innovation and ingenuity they show every day. The products that aftermarket businesses manufacture, sell, and distribute to automotive enthusiasts worldwide are a testament to our nation’s engineering superiority. 
  • The SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the largest trade show in North America, with 160,000 attendees expected, annually includes the centerpiece “FutureTech Studio” activation, where the organization showcases different propulsion technologies, including EV, hybrid, hydrogen, alternative fuels, and other technological advancements that represent the “what’s next, what’s possible” of the American automotive industry.  
  • SEMA is not anti-EV, nor will it ever be. Rather, SEMA is passionate about protecting the freedom of businesses to deliver the next groundbreaking product, and the American consumer’s freedom to choose whether that product fits their needs and lifestyle. Such innovation can only be delivered through technology-neutral government policy and by allowing the marketplace to drive demand for these products. 

ABOUT SEMA 

SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun and even like new again. 

Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy and more.

The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates $52.3 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit sema.org.  

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Rost9

Thu, 02/12/2026 - 23:28

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

internal combustion engine (ICE) photo courtesy of Shutterstock


SEMA is celebrating the Trump Administration's decision to rescind the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, dubious policy positions that empowered regulators at the federal and state levels to override consumer choices on vehicles. Among those abuses were federal- and state-led efforts to ban internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and impose nationwide electric vehicle (EV) mandates. 

  • By following through with its intent to repeal the GHG endangerment finding, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is unleashing innovation in a significant segment of the automotive aftermarket industry that is entirely dependent on ICE technology. That segment, which has a $100 billion annual economic impact, and employs more than 330,000 Americans, is now free to rely on free-market solutions to our emissions challenges. 

"This is a tremendous decision by the EPA to course-correct after nearly two decades of abuses by previous administrations at the federal and state levels, and instead return sanity to our nation’s environmental policies," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "It was with great trepidation that SEMA watched our nation’s leaders demonize and ban the very motor vehicles that serve as the bedrock upon which the American people--families, small businesses, and automotive enthusiasts--rely to live their best, most prosperous lives. It was even more infuriating to watch these policymakers brazenly justify their actions with a dubious policy position that now rightly goes away, to be replaced with a common-sense, free-market view of what drives our nation’s prosperity."

BACKGROUND 

  • The EPA's decision will directly impact federal new car requirements and does not impact existing emissions laws established by the Clean Air Act. Instead, it will ensure that automakers produce vehicles driven by consumer demand, rather than greenhouse gas limits, that latter of which has significantly influenced the models of vehicles available to the American people since 2009. This policy shift will directly impact the range of new vehicle choices that exist in the coming years.  
  • In comments responding to the EPA's rulemaking for Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OAR–2025–0194 — Reconsideration of the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, SEMA identified economic and cultural considerations for re-establishing a foundation of vehicle choice in the U.S. automotive market, which, because of recent GHG emissions policies, have experienced an erosion of affordability and innovation. 
  • SEMA and its 7,000 member businesses are the heart of the U.S. automotive aftermarket industry, which annually contributes more than $337 billion to the U.S. economy and supports more than 1.3 million American jobs.  
  • Most of the businesses that make up the aftermarket are small businesses, but there is nothing small about the innovation and ingenuity they show every day. The products that aftermarket businesses manufacture, sell, and distribute to automotive enthusiasts worldwide are a testament to our nation’s engineering superiority. 
  • The SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the largest trade show in North America, with 160,000 attendees expected, annually includes the centerpiece “FutureTech Studio” activation, where the organization showcases different propulsion technologies, including EV, hybrid, hydrogen, alternative fuels, and other technological advancements that represent the “what’s next, what’s possible” of the American automotive industry.  
  • SEMA is not anti-EV, nor will it ever be. Rather, SEMA is passionate about protecting the freedom of businesses to deliver the next groundbreaking product, and the American consumer’s freedom to choose whether that product fits their needs and lifestyle. Such innovation can only be delivered through technology-neutral government policy and by allowing the marketplace to drive demand for these products. 

ABOUT SEMA 

SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun and even like new again. 

Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy and more.

The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates $52.3 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit sema.org.  

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Rost9

Thu, 02/12/2026 - 12:31

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 some of the latest postings.

 

Viair Corp.

Social-Media Coordinator in Irvine, California

Viair Corp. is looking for a social-media coordinator to create content for social media, filming, and editing social videos and photography, and to manage the brand's social-media accounts.

 

Muscle Car Restorations

Automotive Body and Paint Technician in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

Muscle Car Restorations is seeking an experienced technician to work in its body and paint department. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in automotive body and paint, along with a love of classic automobiles.

 

RaceTec Pistons

Sales Lead in Huntington Beach, California

RaceTec is seeking a hands-on sales lead with real automotive performance and engine-building experience to support and grow our aftermarket, builder and distributor customer base, while serving as the primary inside partner to our regional field sales representatives.

 

Feed Image Courtesy of Shutterstock | VectorFusionArt