Thu, 01/29/2026 - 12:45

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Kansas race track vintage racing

 

SEMA and PRI continue to gain momentum in their nationwide Right-to-Race advocacy campaign. Here's the latest:
 

WISCONSIN


Tierra Hubbard, senior manager of government affairs for SEMA and PRI, joined two Wisconsin race track owners in Madison, Wisconsin, to testify in support of Assembly Bill (AB) 880, legislation designed to protect long-standing race tracks from nuisance claims brought by new neighbors and surrounding development. The bill reflects a growing national effort to preserve lawfully operating racing facilities that contribute significantly to their local economies.

During the public hearing, testimony focused on the importance of race tracks as economic drivers, community gathering places and longstanding fixtures of Wisconsin's motorsports culture. Supporters emphasized that Right-to-Race protections ensure that facilities that existed long before nearby development can continue operating responsibly without being threatened by litigation.

Wisconsin Right to Race

 

Above (Left to right): Gregg McKarns, owner, Madison International Speedway; Tierra Hubbard, senior manager of state government affairs; Marcel Kuper, owner, Great Lakes Dragaway; Chuck Deery, president of motorsports management, La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway.
 

KANSAS


The Kansas House Committee on Transportation held a public hearing on House Bill (HB) 2416, the Kansas Motorsports Venue Protection Act, introduced by Representative Leo Delperdang. Victor Muñoz, senior manager of government affairs for SEMA and PRI, testified during the hearing.

John Allen, general manager of 81 Speedway and Humboldt Speedway, spoke about the challenges race-track operators face as development encroaches. "I think this is a great bill," Allen told the committee. "This would be a good fit to help protect our investments that were made in these communities."

Cindy Bell from Kansas International Dragway also testified in support of the legislation, detailing similar issues faced by drag-racing facilities.

Throughout the hearing, industry stakeholders underscored that race tracks across Kansas contribute significantly to the state's economy, provide safe, regulated environments for motorsports and serve as long‑standing cultural and community anchors. Together, the hearings in Wisconsin and Kansas underscore how states across the Midwest are confronting the same challenges facing long‑standing race tracks and are increasingly turning to Right‑to‑Race protections to ensure these community institutions can continue operating responsibly as development expands.
 

BACKGROUND


Kansas and Wisconsin's Right-to-Race bills are part of a broader, multi-state initiative led by SEMA and PRI to establish consistent protections for motorsports facilities nationwide. Similar legislation has already been enacted in other states, with additional measures expected to advance during the 2026 legislative cycle.

SEMA and PRI will continue working with lawmakers, race-track owners and industry partners to move these bills through the legislative process and to ensure that the racing community remains protected for generations to come.

For more information and to get involved in race-track nuisance protection efforts in your state, contact SEMA Government Affairs at governmentaffairs@sema.org. For state-specific questions, contact one of our senior managers for state government affairs:

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Matt Fowler KC

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 12:45

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Kansas race track vintage racing

 

SEMA and PRI continue to gain momentum in their nationwide Right-to-Race advocacy campaign. Here's the latest:
 

WISCONSIN


Tierra Hubbard, senior manager of government affairs for SEMA and PRI, joined two Wisconsin race track owners in Madison, Wisconsin, to testify in support of Assembly Bill (AB) 880, legislation designed to protect long-standing race tracks from nuisance claims brought by new neighbors and surrounding development. The bill reflects a growing national effort to preserve lawfully operating racing facilities that contribute significantly to their local economies.

During the public hearing, testimony focused on the importance of race tracks as economic drivers, community gathering places and longstanding fixtures of Wisconsin's motorsports culture. Supporters emphasized that Right-to-Race protections ensure that facilities that existed long before nearby development can continue operating responsibly without being threatened by litigation.

Wisconsin Right to Race

 

Above (Left to right): Gregg McKarns, owner, Madison International Speedway; Tierra Hubbard, senior manager of state government affairs; Marcel Kuper, owner, Great Lakes Dragaway; Chuck Deery, president of motorsports management, La Crosse Fairgrounds Speedway.
 

KANSAS


The Kansas House Committee on Transportation held a public hearing on House Bill (HB) 2416, the Kansas Motorsports Venue Protection Act, introduced by Representative Leo Delperdang. Victor Muñoz, senior manager of government affairs for SEMA and PRI, testified during the hearing.

John Allen, general manager of 81 Speedway and Humboldt Speedway, spoke about the challenges race-track operators face as development encroaches. "I think this is a great bill," Allen told the committee. "This would be a good fit to help protect our investments that were made in these communities."

Cindy Bell from Kansas International Dragway also testified in support of the legislation, detailing similar issues faced by drag-racing facilities.

Throughout the hearing, industry stakeholders underscored that race tracks across Kansas contribute significantly to the state's economy, provide safe, regulated environments for motorsports and serve as long‑standing cultural and community anchors. Together, the hearings in Wisconsin and Kansas underscore how states across the Midwest are confronting the same challenges facing long‑standing race tracks and are increasingly turning to Right‑to‑Race protections to ensure these community institutions can continue operating responsibly as development expands.
 

BACKGROUND


Kansas and Wisconsin's Right-to-Race bills are part of a broader, multi-state initiative led by SEMA and PRI to establish consistent protections for motorsports facilities nationwide. Similar legislation has already been enacted in other states, with additional measures expected to advance during the 2026 legislative cycle.

SEMA and PRI will continue working with lawmakers, race-track owners and industry partners to move these bills through the legislative process and to ensure that the racing community remains protected for generations to come.

For more information and to get involved in race-track nuisance protection efforts in your state, contact SEMA Government Affairs at governmentaffairs@sema.org. For state-specific questions, contact one of our senior managers for state government affairs:

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Matt Fowler KC

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 12:36

By SEMA News Editors

 

ProCharger
Supercharger Systems for Model-Year '26 Vehicles
ProCharger

 

ProCharger has released a variety of new supercharger systems for multiple model-year '26 vehicles. Available kits include systems for '26 Ford F-150; '26 Ford Mustang; '26 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500; and '26 Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Cadillac Escalade and Chevrolet Suburban. The company also recently released new supercharger systems for '23-'24 Ford F-250 and F-350.

procharger.com

 

Edelbrock
Performer RPM 210cc Cylinder Head
Edelbrock Cylinder Head

 

Built for Gen-One Small-Block Chevrolet engines with hydraulic roller camshafts, the Performer RPM 210cc cylinder head is ideal for '55-'86 327ci engines without emissions. Features include 210cc intake port volume for more airflow, OEM exhaust port location to maintain popular exhaust header and manifold compatibility and more.

edelbrock.com

 

Perfect Coatings
Perfect Carbon Ceramic Coating Kit
Carbon Ceramic Coating

 

Once applied, the coating creates a durable protective layer that helps repel water, dirt, and grime. The result is a vehicle that stays cleaner longer and is significantly easier to wash while withstanding harsh UV rays, prevents paint oxidation, fading and gloss loss, according to the company. Each kit includes one 30ml bottle, one applicator and four microfiber pads.

perfectcarbon.com

 

ICON Vehicle Dynamics
'03-'24 Toyota 4Runner Sway Bar Link Kits
ICON Vehicle Dynamics

Sway Bar Link Kits for '03-'24 Toyota 4Runner and associated Toyota platforms. These sway bar links are engineered to match the stock sway bar link length but feature a more robust construction and maintenance-free ball joints to ensure smooth, consistent movement through the entire range of suspension travel, the company says, resulting in improved on-road handling and more predictable performance off-road.

iconvehicledynamics.com

 

A.E.D. Metal Products
Heavy-Walled Docol Advanced High-Strength Steel Tubes

AED Metal Products

 

After a four-year lapse in production by SSAB, A.E.D.Metal Products in Indianapolis, Indiana, now has Docol in .120" wall tubes for the off-road trucks, buggies, rally cars, pulling tractors and UTVs in stock:

Current offerings include:

  • 1.50" x .120"
  • 1.75"x .120"
  • 2.00" x .120"  

Docol is an advanced high-strength steel tube that has performance values superior to aircraft-grade 4130 tube, with similar fabrication characteristics. Docol is widely accepted as an alternative to 4130 with global approval from SFI and FIA, as well as most sanctioning bodies. A.E.D. also stocks advanced high-strength steel sheets, Strenx, as a less expensive alternative to 4130 sheets and plates.  

aedmetals.com

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 11:21

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

 

From Rugged to Polished: Hyundai Santa Fe Facelift
Hyundai Santa Fe

 

Hyundai's '27 Santa Fe facelift has been caught for the first time out in the open. Despite the thick camouflage, the spy shots confirm how the design is set to evolve. The Santa Fe has always been a key player in Hyundai's SUV lineup, yet the fifth-generation model introduced in 2023 struggled to meet expectations. These spy photos confirm that Hyundai is taking feedback seriously and will try to change the most criticized area--the rear design.

The facelifted Santa Fe is expected to undergo one of the most radical mid-cycle design updates in Hyundai's recent history. The SUV will incorporate Hyundai's latest "Art of Steel" design language, first showcased on the next-generation NEXO.

Key changes include a redesigned front fascia with slimmer headlights and side-mounted DRLs, replacing the current chunky setup, plus a more refined four-bar grille with cleaner integration that moves away from the rugged Land Rover-inspired look.

Also new will be sleeker body sides with horizontal molding that emphasizes width instead of bulk. At the rear, vertical taillights will be linked by a full-width horizontal brake light bar, plus a relocated license plate for a more upscale feel.

Hyundai Santa Fe

 

The overall effect is a less boxy, more aerodynamic stance, giving the Santa Fe a premium SUV appearance closer to the Tucson and even Hyundai's flagship Palisade.

The current Santa Fe's rugged, off-road-inspired look was meant to distinguish it in a crowded midsize SUV market. Instead, it alienated buyers who preferred the sleeker designs of rivals like the Kia Sorento or Toyota Highlander. With sales dropping steadily through early 2025--even after the introduction of the hybrid--the facelift represents a critical chance for Hyundai to win back customers.

Santa Fe

 

By aligning the Santa Fe with Hyundai's more modern design philosophy, the facelift should broaden its appeal, especially among families and urban drivers who want a stylish but practical SUV.

Alongside the design refresh, Hyundai confirmed a major mechanical upgrade: all 2.5L turbo Santa Fe models will drop the controversial eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) in favor of a torque-converter automatic transmission. The move comes after years of consumer complaints about jerky low-speed driving, clunky shifts and warranty claims.

The hybrid Santa Fe will continue with its 1.6L turbo engine and smooth six-speed automatic. The '27 Hyundai Santa Fe facelift is expected to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, with the new torque-converter automatic and refreshed styling leading the way.

 

Next-Gen Hyundai Bayon Growing Significantly
Hyundai Bayon

 

Hyundai is accelerating the growth of its global SUV lineup with the next-generation Hyundai Bayon, codenamed BC4, recently spied testing in Scandinavia in prototype form, showing hybrid powertrain hardware and an N Line performance-inspired trim. Thanks to these spy shots, we can now position the new Bayon as a potential game changer in the subcompact SUV segment, with fresh styling, more space than its predecessor and equipment and powertrain levels that edge into territory occupied by the current Hyundai Kona.

Unlike the outgoing Bayon, which has often been described as a hatchback-based crossover, the BC4 generation appears to have grown in size and presence. The spy shots indicate a boxier silhouette and a more conventional SUV stance, moving beyond its earlier design roots.

While exact dimensions for the BC4 are not yet confirmed, industry insiders suggest Hyundai has given the new Bayon a longer wheelbase and broader track to improve interior space, cargo capacity and overall road presence. This positions it as a more mature SUV choice and could make it more competitive against rivals that offer vehicles with a similar footprint.

Early reports also hint at a significant interior overhaul, with a fully digital instrument cluster, a larger touchscreen display and an upgraded suite of safety tech. These enhancements would not only modernize the Bayon but also align it with current segment leaders in features and comfort.

One of the most intriguing implications of the next-gen Bayon's evolution is its potential impact on Hyundai Kona sales. Traditionally, the Kona sits above the Bayon in the lineup, offering more powertrain options, including full EV variants in some markets. However, with the Bayon BC4 becoming larger, better equipped and available with a hybrid powertrain and sportier N Line trim, it may attract buyers who might otherwise have stepped up to the Kona--especially those prioritizing efficiency, price and everyday usability.

A larger, more refined Bayon could especially appeal in markets where pricing sensitivity is high and hybrid efficiency is a strong selling point. If Hyundai positions the BC4 competitively, it could shrink the Kona's sweet spot, particularly for consumers who don't need the full performance or EV capabilities of the Kona lineup.

Hyundai has not formally confirmed specifications or launch dates for the next-generation Bayon, but automotive news outlets expect a global debut in 2026, with production versions appearing first in Europe and Korea before rolling out to other markets. Given Hyundai's aggressive electrification and SUV expansion plans, the BC4 Bayon may play a key role in its strategy to capture more of the compact SUV segment worldwide.

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 11:21

By SEMA News Editors

Pure Drivetrain Solutions at Turn 14 Distribution


Turn 14 Distribution, one of the leaders in vehicle aftermarket parts wholesale distribution, has added Pure Drivetrain Solutions (PDS) to its growing catalog of high-performance drivetrain brands.

PDS specializes in DIY high-performance transmission rebuild kits engineered to upgrade stock transmissions for high-horsepower applications. These comprehensive kits include everything dealers need for a complete performance rebuild. In addition to transmission hard parts kits, Turn 14 Distribution will also offer PDS billet race torque converters and high-performance transfer case rebuild kits.

While originally focused on European vehicle applications, PDS has expanded its product development to include high-horsepower domestic platforms.

As the first wholesale distributor of PDS, Turn 14 Distribution will service PDS' existing direct dealer network, allowing the brand to focus on new-product development and continued involvement with professional race teams. All PDS offerings are premium, performance-driven components designed for demanding applications.

"Pure Drivetrain Solutions represents a unique opportunity for Turn 14 Distribution to enter a specialized, high-performance product space with strong demand" said Tom Miller, divisional purchasing manager at Turn 14 Distribution. "By adding this new brand, we aim to benefit PDS, Turn 14, and our dealers alike, and we are excited to bring these products to market."

Turn 14 Distribution customers can order PDS products now by logging in to their account at turn14.com.

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 11:07

By SEMA News Editors

WRC Candidate Event Sets Course for Future U.S. Round
WRC logo overtop stock image of US flag


The FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), working in collaboration with the FIAAutomobile Competition Committee of the United States (ACCUS) and Podium Events, has taken a step towards a return to the United States with a WRC candidate event to be held this June.

Scheduled for June 11-17, 2026, the candidate event will be assessed against full WRC standards across stages in Tennessee and Kentucky, as part of a structured process that could open the door to a full WRC round from 2027.

The United States last hosted a WRC round in 1988 when the Olympus Rally formed part of the global calendar, according to series officials.

The trial event will be delivered in collaboration with ACCUS and closely evaluated by FIA delegates, covering all aspects of rally delivery, including sporting operations, safety, infrastructure and event promotion, WRC officials said.

Alongside stage and service park assessments, the program will include engagement with the American rally community through a visit to a round of the American Rally Association (ARA) National Championship, as well as meetings with proposed promoter Podium Event Partners, which brings experience from multiple areas of American motor sport.

The move underlines the championship's long-term ambition to expand its global footprint and establish a sustainable presence in one of the world's most significant motorsports markets, series officials said.

"Plans to bring WRC back to the USA have been germinating for some time and the confirmation of this candidate event marks a major milestone," said Rally USA project leader Marc de Jong. "It is a significant step in the championship's much-anticipated return to the United States, after an absence of nearly 40 years."

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the United States represented a key growth opportunity for the championship.

"The United States represents one of the most important growth opportunities for the FIA World Rally Championship," he said. "It is a nation where motorsport is part of the cultural DNA, home to world-class domestic championships and a rapidly growing appetite for global competition.

"Expanding the WRC into North America would not only elevate the championship's global reach, but unite rallying with a knowledgeable, passionate and expanding fanbase in a market where participation and fan engagement continue to accelerate."

For more information, visit wrc.com.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock/ArtiMind

 

Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 Returns to Indy 500 Weekend
Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 Returns to Indy 500 Weekend courtesy of Penske


The second annual Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 will return to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Friday, May 22, leading up to the 110th Indianapolis 500.

Last year's spectacle drew 85,000 fans in the stands at IMS and 8 million more via livestream. Revving up for its second lap, the race will feature the full fleet of six Oscar Mayer Wienermobiles, who will be competing for the title of Top Dog--this year with a new live nationwide broadcast and the chance for fans to get in on the action.

With each Wienermobile named after a regional hot dog, millions rallied behind their favorites--but it was Slaw Dog who secured last year's victory. This year, Slaw Dog (Southeast) is back to defend its title along with Chi Dog (Midwest), New York Dog (East), Chili Dog (South) and Seattle Dog (Northwest). Following a disappointing performance, the Sonoran Dog is officially relegated due to not cutting the mustard, leaving a spot open for a new regional dog to enter the competition. Race lovers can visit @Wienermobile on Instagram to cast their vote in the first-ever 'Pick Your Dog' Wienie 500 bracket where they can choose from a fresh lineup of seven new regional hot dogs or opt to give Sonoran Dog another shot at qualifying.

"The response to the first Wienie 500 was overwhelming, and we heard the fans loud and clear that they were hungry for more," said Kelsey Rice, brand communications director at Oscar Mayer. "This year, we're supercharging the experience, delivering an even bigger, bolder and more unforgettable event that puts the fans at the forefront. With amplified engagement, intensified rivalries and more surprises in store, we're giving the people what they want – an unparalleled live experience that will leave them craving more."

Many of the beloved traditions from the inaugural Wienie 500 are back for this year's race, including custom Wienermobile decals, Hotdogger racing suits, the iconic "Wiener Song" anthem and finally, the trophy presentation at the "wieners circle" podium--complete with a mustard spray and Borg-Wiener trophy. All part of an experience that only Oscar Mayer can provide, the Wienie 500 is designed to spark smiles and serve up a uniquely delightful race.

For more information, visit ims.com.

 

Image Courtesy of Penske Entertainment: Titus Slaughter

Thu, 01/29/2026 - 11:07

By SEMA News Editors

WRC Candidate Event Sets Course for Future U.S. Round
WRC logo overtop stock image of US flag


The FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), working in collaboration with the FIAAutomobile Competition Committee of the United States (ACCUS) and Podium Events, has taken a step towards a return to the United States with a WRC candidate event to be held this June.

Scheduled for June 11-17, 2026, the candidate event will be assessed against full WRC standards across stages in Tennessee and Kentucky, as part of a structured process that could open the door to a full WRC round from 2027.

The United States last hosted a WRC round in 1988 when the Olympus Rally formed part of the global calendar, according to series officials.

The trial event will be delivered in collaboration with ACCUS and closely evaluated by FIA delegates, covering all aspects of rally delivery, including sporting operations, safety, infrastructure and event promotion, WRC officials said.

Alongside stage and service park assessments, the program will include engagement with the American rally community through a visit to a round of the American Rally Association (ARA) National Championship, as well as meetings with proposed promoter Podium Event Partners, which brings experience from multiple areas of American motor sport.

The move underlines the championship's long-term ambition to expand its global footprint and establish a sustainable presence in one of the world's most significant motorsports markets, series officials said.

"Plans to bring WRC back to the USA have been germinating for some time and the confirmation of this candidate event marks a major milestone," said Rally USA project leader Marc de Jong. "It is a significant step in the championship's much-anticipated return to the United States, after an absence of nearly 40 years."

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the United States represented a key growth opportunity for the championship.

"The United States represents one of the most important growth opportunities for the FIA World Rally Championship," he said. "It is a nation where motorsport is part of the cultural DNA, home to world-class domestic championships and a rapidly growing appetite for global competition.

"Expanding the WRC into North America would not only elevate the championship's global reach, but unite rallying with a knowledgeable, passionate and expanding fanbase in a market where participation and fan engagement continue to accelerate."

For more information, visit wrc.com.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock/ArtiMind

 

Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 Returns to Indy 500 Weekend
Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 Returns to Indy 500 Weekend courtesy of Penske


The second annual Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 will return to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Friday, May 22, leading up to the 110th Indianapolis 500.

Last year's spectacle drew 85,000 fans in the stands at IMS and 8 million more via livestream. Revving up for its second lap, the race will feature the full fleet of six Oscar Mayer Wienermobiles, who will be competing for the title of Top Dog--this year with a new live nationwide broadcast and the chance for fans to get in on the action.

With each Wienermobile named after a regional hot dog, millions rallied behind their favorites--but it was Slaw Dog who secured last year's victory. This year, Slaw Dog (Southeast) is back to defend its title along with Chi Dog (Midwest), New York Dog (East), Chili Dog (South) and Seattle Dog (Northwest). Following a disappointing performance, the Sonoran Dog is officially relegated due to not cutting the mustard, leaving a spot open for a new regional dog to enter the competition. Race lovers can visit @Wienermobile on Instagram to cast their vote in the first-ever 'Pick Your Dog' Wienie 500 bracket where they can choose from a fresh lineup of seven new regional hot dogs or opt to give Sonoran Dog another shot at qualifying.

"The response to the first Wienie 500 was overwhelming, and we heard the fans loud and clear that they were hungry for more," said Kelsey Rice, brand communications director at Oscar Mayer. "This year, we're supercharging the experience, delivering an even bigger, bolder and more unforgettable event that puts the fans at the forefront. With amplified engagement, intensified rivalries and more surprises in store, we're giving the people what they want – an unparalleled live experience that will leave them craving more."

Many of the beloved traditions from the inaugural Wienie 500 are back for this year's race, including custom Wienermobile decals, Hotdogger racing suits, the iconic "Wiener Song" anthem and finally, the trophy presentation at the "wieners circle" podium--complete with a mustard spray and Borg-Wiener trophy. All part of an experience that only Oscar Mayer can provide, the Wienie 500 is designed to spark smiles and serve up a uniquely delightful race.

For more information, visit ims.com.

 

Image Courtesy of Penske Entertainment: Titus Slaughter

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 13:01

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.

 

Canepa

Automotive Upholsterer in Scotts Valley, California

Candidates must have experience in high-end luxury restoration upholstery work with a keen attention to detail and accuracy. Your skills must be top notch and produce extremely high-quality results. Duties include all aspects of interior or upholstery restoration, replacement and repair; from floor to roof, seats, trim and lining.

 

Parts Advisor in Scotts Valley, California

Key responsibilities of this position including sourcing hard-to-find and special-order parts, placing and tracking orders, developing contingency plans for delayed orders, maintaining parts inventory accuracy and integrity, meeting with suppliers and more.

 

National Auto Sport Association

Social Media InternRemote

The social media intern will work with the marketing department to create content, assist with social media strategy and reporting, and execute supplemental marketing tasks as needed. This role is intended for candidates who desire to work in social media.

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock/Volurol

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 08:41

By SEMA News Editors

Honda Prelude SEMA Garage

 

In partnership with Honda, SEMA Garage is hosting an exclusive measuring session next month for the new '26 Honda Prelude.

Scheduled for February 10-11 at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, the measuring session will give participants an exclusive first-look at the highly anticipated vehicle and access to critical dimensions for product development.

Aftermarket manufacturers can reserve a time slot now, but don't wait because space is limited.

Advance RSVP is required. Only RSVP for one session per company.

RSVP

 

SEMA Garage Honda Prelude Measuring Session

February 10 - 11, 2026

1577 Valley Vista Dr.

Diamond Bar, CA 91765

View on Google Maps

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 08:24

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Hall of Fame

 

Before 1,000hp engines and 3D-printed performance parts, there were the first performance carburetors and custom intake manifolds developed by the first pioneers of the industry. While they might not have known it at the time, these pioneers laid the foundation for successful legacies, pushing the limits of innovation and introducing a rich history of car culture that would soon follow.

Since 1969, the SEMA Hall of Fame has paid tribute to the leaders and legends that grew the automotive specialty-equipment market into the powerhouse that it is today. SEMA is accepting nominations for the Class of 2026 now through Friday, March 13, at www.sema.org/hof.

 

Breakthroughs Worth Honoring  

SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are not recognized for just one single breakthrough moment, but for consistent leadership over time. Visitors to the Hall of Fame website will find countless stories of leaders who have served on committees, mentored others, advocated for the industry, and guided organizations through periods of growth and change. 

Now 184 members strong, the Hall of Fame continues to honor renowned individuals who have strengthened the industry--from Chris Economaki, a trailblazing motorsports commentator, pit road reporter and journalist, to Walker Evans, known for his pioneering efforts in the off-road market, and Phil Weiand of Weiand Automotive Industries, who got his start producing heads and intake manifolds for Flathead V8s during the early days of hot rodding.

SEMA Hall of Fame

     

From left to right: Chris Economaki, Walker Evans, Phil Weiand 

The legacies of those inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame will live on forever. If you think of your favorite aftermarket brand, an event that you attend annually, or a product that makes you excited, chances are, a SEMA Hall of Famer had something to do with it.
 

Stories Worth Telling   

The best stories that come out of the industry are often not learned, but experienced. The SEMA Hall of Fame is a successful initiative because of people who took the time to recognize those who impacted their lives and the industry for the better. Whether it was working alongside someone for years or by witnessing leadership in action, it's these firsthand perspectives that SEMA relies on to recognize the industry's most influential contributors.
 

Nominate Today  

As SEMA prepares to select the Hall of Fame Class of 2026, members have an opportunity to help shape how the industry's story is told. Nominations do not need to document an entire career; what matters most is a clear understanding of the nominee's influence and impact. 

If you know someone who has made national and/or international contributions to the automotive specialty-equipment industry; has been involved in the industry and/or SEMA for at least 10 years (15 preferred); and has helped advance technology, professionalism, dignity or the overall growth of the aftermarket, this is your opportunity to help them receive the recognition they deserve. Nominees must be at least 50 years old by the 2026 SEMA Show, or may be any age if deceased, provided the nomination is submitted at least one year posthumously. 

Nominate today at www.sema.org/hof.  

Click here to view all SEMA Hall of Fame members.