By SEMA News Editors

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.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Is the Hyundai Elantra Finally Going to Europe?

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.

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.

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

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 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.

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

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.

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.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Is the Hyundai Elantra Finally Going to Europe?

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.

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.

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

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 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.

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

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.

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.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

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

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

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

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

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

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

By SEMA News Editors

PRI Returns as Hoosier 500 Title Sponsor, Broadcast Partner

Organizers of the PRI Hoosier 500 have released the preliminary event schedule for the 2026 PRI Hoosier 500.

Race day for the annual sim race will be December 13, 2026, with PRI returning as the official title sponsor and broadcast partner for the race.

Opening Day for PRI Hoosier 500 practice will be November 30, with additional official practice days assigned to December 1-3. Fast Friday, the final day of practice prior to qualifications, is scheduled for December 4.

Qualifications will be held across two days as is standard for the event. Day one qualifications on December 5, will feature the first chance for competitors to make time trial attempts, and the driver with the fastest four-lap average at the end of the day will earn the 2026 PRI Hoosier 500 Pole Award.

Day two qualifications--Bump Day--are scheduled for December 6, which will be utilized to finalize the field of 33 racers who will take the grid on race day. The fastest 33 qualifiers make the field, and all other drivers are sent home.

December 7 will feature the final full official practice session prior to race weekend, while Media Day has been scheduled for December 8.

Race weekend begins on December 12, with final PRI Hoosier 500 practice and additional support events, building towards race day on December 13.

Dates are tentative and subject to change. Official session times will be confirmed later this year, prior to the registration period's opening. Further information about the 2026 event will be announced at a later date.

For more information, visit thehoosier500.com.

Scott Dixon, Giampaolo Dallara Voted Into IMS Hall of Fame

Two IndyCar icons are being inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is pleased to announce Scott Dixon and Giampaolo Dallara as the two inductees for the Class of 2026. 

They will be formally celebrated at the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner on Thursday, May 21 at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in downtown Indianapolis. 

Dixon and Dallara were chosen by a national panel of more than 150 journalists, drivers, industry leaders, historians and other members of the Hall of Fame. This was the first appearance on the ballot for them both. 

"Scott Dixon and Giampaolo Dallara are at the very top of their respective fields. Their consistency, skill and unwavering determination have led to success not only at Indianapolis Motor Speedway but in every aspect of their careers," IMS Museum President Michael Good said. "The Museum is honored to be the steward of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame, and we're thrilled to add these two deserving inductees." 

Scott Dixon, driver of the No. 9 PNC Bank Chip Ganassi Racing Honda, is a six-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES Champion and winner of the 2008 Indianapolis 500. He's secured five pole positions for "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," second to Rick Mears' record six. The New Zealand native returns to Chip Ganassi Racing for his 25th season in 2026--the longest tenure for a driver in team history. Dixon's six championships and 59 career wins are both second in series history behind the legendary A.J. Foyt. Known for his consistency, Dixon finished third in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship in 2025 and won a race for a record 21st consecutive season. He is the first active full-time driver to be inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame.   

"It is a huge honor to be inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame. It's such a historic venue in motorsports and means so much to me, having raced here for so many years now. Honestly, it feels a little surreal as I'm still focused on winning here in May. It's the competition that drives me, even in year 25 with Chip Ganassi Racing. The Indianapolis 500 is the biggest sporting event in the world, and another win here would be incredible, so that's the goal for 2026," Dixon said.  

Giampaolo Dallara founded "Dallara Automobili da Competizione" in 1972 in his hometown in Italy, building cars for F1 and F3. He began his career as an engineer at Ferrari, followed by key roles at Maserati, Lamborghini and Williams De Tomaso. He used that experience to launch his company, which for more than 50 years has developed itself in the business of designing, manufacturing and supporting some of the world's most competitive racecars with particular focus on both safety and performance. The company started producing Indy cars in 1997 and has been the sole chassis supplier since 2008. In 2012, Dallara expanded its U.S. operations by opening the Dallara Experience Hub in Speedway, Indiana, where the company produces and assembles chassis for a variety of racing series.

"Being inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame is truly an honor. The Indianapolis 500 has inspired me since the very beginning of my career, and our journey in the United States has been built on passion, innovation and extraordinary people," Dallara said. "I am grateful to the teams, drivers and partners who have trusted our work for so many years. This recognition belongs to all of them as much as it does to me."

For more information, visit imsmuseum.org/hall-of-fame.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI are expanding their Right-to-Race advocacy campaign nationwide. The time to protect race tracks is now, before more long-standing facilities are pushed out of their communities. Learn more at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-race. 

Here's the latest on SEMA and PRI's Right-to-Race advocacy campaign:  

Georgia 

Georgia lawmakers have moved quickly to advance House Bill (HB) 1066. Less than a week after its introduction, the bill received a hearing in the State and Local Government Subcommittee, where SEMA and PRI testified in support. Testimony highlighted the economic contributions and community impact that racing facilities have on real families across lawmakers’ districts. The bill passed the full Government Affairs Committee the following day. 

A group of race track owners and operators also spoke in support of the legislation, sharing an often-overlooked reality: race tracks regularly give back to their communities by hosting charity events and raising funds for local nonprofits. Investing in race tracks is investing in local communities. 

Missouri  

HB 3177 was introduced by Rep. Matt Matthiesen in the first week of February. This bill mirrors legislation in other states and extends that protection to inverse‑condemnation‑style claims, in which property owners can't sue the government or race tracks on the grounds that their property is unusable and therefore "taken," because of a race track's normal actions. The bill also bars state and local governments from filing nuisance actions against race tracks operating in compliance with permits and law.  

Wisconsin  

SEMA and PRI returned to Wisconsin during the second week of February to testify in support of SB 872 before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Local Government. In the weeks leading up to the hearing, the SEMA and PRI Government Affairs team met with committee members to familiarize lawmakers with the policy before it reached their desks. 

Numerous organizations publicly voiced support for the legislation, including the Association of Wisconsin Tourism Attractions and the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. In addition, the League of Wisconsin Municipalities acknowledged race tracks as tourism drivers that help foster a strong sense of community. Most tracks are small, multi-generational businesses with limited resources. Many have been operating for decades, and with the right protections in place, they are here to stay. 

BACKGROUND 

The Right-to-Race efforts in Georgia, Missouri and Wisconsin are part of a coordinated, multi-state initiative led by SEMA and PRI to provide consistent protections for motorsports facilities nationwide. As more states advance similar legislation, the campaign is expected to continue gaining traction throughout the 2026 legislative cycle. 

SEMA and PRI will continue partnering with policymakers and the racing community to advance these bills and protect race tracks as vital economic and cultural institutions for generations to come. 

Learn more about the impact of motorsports on your state and community by taking a look at PRI's 2025 Motorsports Economic Impact Study, with an interactive map showing how racing drives economic success. 

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: 

• Tierra Hubbard (East Coast) at tierrah@sema.org 
• Victor Muñoz (West Coast) at victorm@sema.org 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Matthew Jacques

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI are expanding their Right-to-Race advocacy campaign nationwide. The time to protect race tracks is now, before more long-standing facilities are pushed out of their communities. Learn more at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-race. 

Here's the latest on SEMA and PRI's Right-to-Race advocacy campaign:  

Georgia 

Georgia lawmakers have moved quickly to advance House Bill (HB) 1066. Less than a week after its introduction, the bill received a hearing in the State and Local Government Subcommittee, where SEMA and PRI testified in support. Testimony highlighted the economic contributions and community impact that racing facilities have on real families across lawmakers’ districts. The bill passed the full Government Affairs Committee the following day. 

A group of race track owners and operators also spoke in support of the legislation, sharing an often-overlooked reality: race tracks regularly give back to their communities by hosting charity events and raising funds for local nonprofits. Investing in race tracks is investing in local communities. 

Missouri  

HB 3177 was introduced by Rep. Matt Matthiesen in the first week of February. This bill mirrors legislation in other states and extends that protection to inverse‑condemnation‑style claims, in which property owners can't sue the government or race tracks on the grounds that their property is unusable and therefore "taken," because of a race track's normal actions. The bill also bars state and local governments from filing nuisance actions against race tracks operating in compliance with permits and law.  

Wisconsin  

SEMA and PRI returned to Wisconsin during the second week of February to testify in support of SB 872 before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Local Government. In the weeks leading up to the hearing, the SEMA and PRI Government Affairs team met with committee members to familiarize lawmakers with the policy before it reached their desks. 

Numerous organizations publicly voiced support for the legislation, including the Association of Wisconsin Tourism Attractions and the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. In addition, the League of Wisconsin Municipalities acknowledged race tracks as tourism drivers that help foster a strong sense of community. Most tracks are small, multi-generational businesses with limited resources. Many have been operating for decades, and with the right protections in place, they are here to stay. 

BACKGROUND 

The Right-to-Race efforts in Georgia, Missouri and Wisconsin are part of a coordinated, multi-state initiative led by SEMA and PRI to provide consistent protections for motorsports facilities nationwide. As more states advance similar legislation, the campaign is expected to continue gaining traction throughout the 2026 legislative cycle. 

SEMA and PRI will continue partnering with policymakers and the racing community to advance these bills and protect race tracks as vital economic and cultural institutions for generations to come. 

Learn more about the impact of motorsports on your state and community by taking a look at PRI's 2025 Motorsports Economic Impact Study, with an interactive map showing how racing drives economic success. 

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: 

• Tierra Hubbard (East Coast) at tierrah@sema.org 
• Victor Muñoz (West Coast) at victorm@sema.org 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Matthew Jacques