By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Show registration system recently experienced an outage. But, our loss is your gain because there is still time to save.

SEMA has extended the badge price increase deadline through Wednesday, October 9, for those who still need to register and want to save $60 on credentials.

Starting on Thursday, October 10, and through the SEMA Show on November 5-8, attendee registration increases to $120 per person.

Register now here.

By SEMA News Editors

Get ready for one of the most thrilling spectacles at SEMA Fest--OPTIMA Unleashed! This is a full-throttle experience that ignites all the senses.

Imagine the raw power of finely tuned engines roaring to life, the exhilarating scent of burning rubber filling the air, and the heart-pounding excitement as high-performance cars push their limits. You can witness it between sets from Sublime, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey, OPTIMA Batteries will demo out-of-this-world drifting and stunt bike exhibitions by some of the biggest industry stars as a part of the OPTIMA Unleashed at SEMA Fest, on Friday, November 8, at the SEMA Show campus.  

Whether you're a die-hard motorsports fan or just love the thrill of speed, OPTIMA Unleashed promises an adrenaline rush like no other. If you've been craving the ultimate automotive experience, SEMA Fest is the event you've been waiting for. Don't miss out on this incredible experience! 

Keep an eye on SEMA News for headliner spotlights and more details on this one-of-a-kind event. For more details and tickets, visit SEMAFest.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Get ready for one of the most thrilling spectacles at SEMA Fest--OPTIMA Unleashed! This is a full-throttle experience that ignites all the senses.

Imagine the raw power of finely tuned engines roaring to life, the exhilarating scent of burning rubber filling the air, and the heart-pounding excitement as high-performance cars push their limits. You can witness it between sets from Sublime, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey, OPTIMA Batteries will demo out-of-this-world drifting and stunt bike exhibitions by some of the biggest industry stars as a part of the OPTIMA Unleashed at SEMA Fest, on Friday, November 8, at the SEMA Show campus.  

Whether you're a die-hard motorsports fan or just love the thrill of speed, OPTIMA Unleashed promises an adrenaline rush like no other. If you've been craving the ultimate automotive experience, SEMA Fest is the event you've been waiting for. Don't miss out on this incredible experience! 

Keep an eye on SEMA News for headliner spotlights and more details on this one-of-a-kind event. For more details and tickets, visit SEMAFest.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Image courtesy of INDYCAR.
 

Three championship organizations are uniting to bring an NTT INDYCAR SERIES race to the streets of Arlington, Texas. Penske Entertainment, the Dallas Cowboys and REV Entertainment, the official events partner of the Texas Rangers, have announced a first-of-its-kind joint venture to establish and operate the INDYCAR Grand Prix of Arlington, with the initial race set for March 2026.

The 2.73-mile track layout will feature two iconic sporting venues recognized by fans around the world: AT&T Stadium, home of the National Football League's Dallas Cowboys, and Globe Life Field, home of Major League Baseball's Texas Rangers. The track will weave through Arlington's core sports and entertainment district, which features an all-star lineup of events and venues and annually sells more than 1.6 million tickets to spectators near and far.

The new racing event will provide the city of Arlington and its organizers a national network television showcase, with FOX set to provide live coverage through its recently unveiled partnership with INDYCAR.

The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is North America's premier open-wheel racing competition, featuring stars from across the globe competing at speeds faster than 230 mph. Along with hosting the world-famous Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge, the series boasts a mix of oval, temporary street circuit and permanent road course races across North America, with the INDYCAR Grand Prix of Arlington set to become its newest high-octane marquee event. The NTT INDYCAR SERIES is sanctioned by INDYCAR, the governing body for North America's premier open-wheel racing series and part of the Penske Entertainment family.

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING – EVENT LEADERSHIP

"Through a truly remarkable and innovative partnership, we're going to build racing's next global spectacle. Everyone involved is fully committed to delivering an incredible and unique event weekend for the city of Arlington, anchored by the stars of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. We're grateful to the Cowboys, Rangers and REV Entertainment for entering into this partnership with us, and, of course, to Arlington's leadership team for their excitement and ongoing support," said Roger Penske, Penske Corporation chairman.

"We are thrilled to join forces with the Texas Rangers, Penske Entertainment, and the city of Arlington to bring Grand Prix racing to the streets of the Arlington Entertainment District. The collaboration between our organizations will make the INDYCAR Grand Prix of Arlington special, providing a unique NTT INDYCAR SERIES race experience for fans attending, while also creating a showcase with our friends at FOX and those watching around the world. An event of this magnitude is another great reflection of what we imagined over 15 years ago that AT&T Stadium could be a part of," said Jerry Jones, Dallas Cowboys owner, president and general manager.

"Today is a historic day for the Texas Rangers and REV Entertainment. We are proud to be at the forefront of the INDYCAR Grand Prix of Arlington alongside such esteemed organizations in Penske Entertainment and the Dallas Cowboys. This event will set a new standard for the Arlington Entertainment District, and we look forward to welcoming fans from around the world to experience what Arlington has to offer," said Neil Leibman, Texas Rangers chief operating officer.

"We are truly thankful to our partners for their vision and dedication to bringing the INDYCAR Grand Prix of Arlington here to The American Dream City. I can't think of a more beautiful and vibrant backdrop for this competition than Arlington's world-class Entertainment District, which has proven again and again to be a premier destination for sports and entertainment. This announcement is an economic win for North Texas, and we're looking forward to welcoming this incredible racing series and its fans for an unforgettable experience," said Jim Ross, Arlington mayor.

MORE ABOUT THE INDYCAR GRAND PRIX OF ARLINGTON

Planning and preparation for the race weekend is underway, with veteran motorsport industry executive Bill Miller announced as president of the INDYCAR Grand Prix of Arlington. Miller brings more than three decades of experience to the role, including previously serving as president of California Speedway and senior vice president of operations at SEMA and PRI.

The INDYCAR Grand Prix of Arlington will provide a full weekend of racing and entertainment, with general admission, reserved seating, VIP hospitality and party zone areas available. Fans can register their interest by visiting the newly launched website at gparlington.com.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA is asking its members to consider commenting on a proposed rule from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security that would prohibit the sale or import of connected vehicles that include specific pieces of hardware and software, along with the sale of those components, with a sufficient nexus to the People's Republic of China or Russia.

The "Securing the Information and Communications Technology and Services Supply Chain: Connected Vehicles" proposed rule focuses on hardware and software integrated into Vehicle Connectivity Systems (VCS) and software integrated into levels 3, 4 and 5 Automated Driving Systems (ADS), defining a "connected vehicle" as an on-road vehicle that "integrates onboard networked hardware with automotive software systems to communicate via dedicated short-range communication, cellular telecommunications connectivity, satellite communication or other wireless spectrum connectivity with any other network or device." If this rulemaking impacts your business, click here to submit official comments by October 28, 2024. 

Here are some of the key components of the proposed policy: 

Prohibited Activities and Penalties: 

The proposed rule would prohibit the following activities:  

• Knowingly importing into the United States VCS hardware that is designed, developed, manufactured or supplied by persons linked to China or Russia.
• Knowingly importing into or selling within the United States completed connected vehicles that incorporate covered software designed, developed, manufactured or supplied by persons linked to China or Russia.
• Knowingly selling in the United States completed connected vehicles that incorporate VCS hardware or covered software if the seller is linked to China or Russia, regardless of whether the vehicles are manufactured or assembled in the United States.

The rule prescribes civil penalties of up to $286,136 per violation and criminal penalties, including fines of up to $1 million and/or imprisonment for up to 20 years. 

Covered Vehicles and Components: 

• The prohibitions on software with a sufficient nexus to Russia and China would take effect for model-year-'27 vehicles, and the prohibitions on hardware would take effect for model-year-'30 vehicles (effective January 1, 2029, for units without a model year).  
• The rule covers VCS (i.e. systems and components that connect a vehicle to the outside world), including via Bluetooth, cellular, satellite and Wi-Fi modules), and ADS, which allows highly autonomous vehicles to operate without a driver behind the wheel.  
• The proposal targets hardware and software for VCS that enable radio frequency communications over 450 MHz and software for ADS. Commerce notes that, by setting this threshold, it is targeting hardware and software that pose a higher risk due to their connectivity and transmission functions, while lowering compliance burden by excluding from regulation those information and communications technology and services (ICTS) with functions that pose a lower risk and offer high utility to consumers (e.g., tire pressure monitoring systems, electronic key fobs). 
• The proposed rule excludes systems such as vehicle operating systems (OS), automated driver assistance systems (ADAS) or battery management systems (BMS) unless they have VCS components and fall within the proposed rule's definition of VCS hardware. 
• In order to reduce unnecessary economic impacts and supply disruption, the proposal would regulate ADS software rather than the hardware components of ADAS and ADS. The hardware that enables ADAS and ADS varies widely between different OEMs. In contrast, the hardware that enables VCS are relatively consistent across different automotive architectures and designs. 

Covered Hardware:  

• The rule covers VCS hardware, which are the physical components and subcomponents that enable a vehicle to connect and communicate with external networks and devices. 
• Commerce defines "VCS hardware" as software-enabled or programmable components and subcomponents that support VCS, including microcontrollers, microcomputers or modules, systems on a chip, networking or telematics units, cellular modem/modules, Wi-Fi microcontrollers or modules, Bluetooth microcontrollers or modules, satellite navigation systems, satellite communication systems, other wireless communication microcontrollers or modules, and external antennas.  
• This rule covers aftermarket telematics devices, including fleet tracking devices and systems, that fulfill functions consistent with the definition of VCS hardware. 

Covered Software:  

• The proposed rule applies to the software-based components that support the functions of VCS or ADS for the connected vehicle.  
• VCS software supports the transmission, receipt, conversion, or processing of radio frequency communications.  
• ADS includes software enabling the control of automated systems classified as Levels 3, 4, and 5 by SAE International Standard J3016. The proposed rule does not apply to firmware or open-source software unless the open-source software has been modified for proprietary purposes and not redistributed or shared. 
• For VCS hardware and vehicles containing covered software that are not prohibited from importation into or sale within the United States, importers and manufacturers would be required to submit compliance declarations to the Bureau of Industry and Security providing detailed information on such items. This provision is anticipated to apply to software that is not wholly developed in the United States by American-owned companies.  

Proposed Exemptions: 

• The proposed rule includes procedures to let certain parties, such as small producers of vehicles, receive exemptions from the prohibitions on an exceptional basis, in order to minimize unanticipated and unnecessary disruption to industry. 
• The proposed rule also provides general authorizations to alleviate the burden on small businesses (with total model-year production of less than 1,000 hardware or vehicle units) and companies engaged in off-road testing, research and repair. 

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

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA is asking its members to consider commenting on a proposed rule from the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security that would prohibit the sale or import of connected vehicles that include specific pieces of hardware and software, along with the sale of those components, with a sufficient nexus to the People's Republic of China or Russia.

The "Securing the Information and Communications Technology and Services Supply Chain: Connected Vehicles" proposed rule focuses on hardware and software integrated into Vehicle Connectivity Systems (VCS) and software integrated into levels 3, 4 and 5 Automated Driving Systems (ADS), defining a "connected vehicle" as an on-road vehicle that "integrates onboard networked hardware with automotive software systems to communicate via dedicated short-range communication, cellular telecommunications connectivity, satellite communication or other wireless spectrum connectivity with any other network or device." If this rulemaking impacts your business, click here to submit official comments by October 28, 2024. 

Here are some of the key components of the proposed policy: 

Prohibited Activities and Penalties: 

The proposed rule would prohibit the following activities:  

• Knowingly importing into the United States VCS hardware that is designed, developed, manufactured or supplied by persons linked to China or Russia.
• Knowingly importing into or selling within the United States completed connected vehicles that incorporate covered software designed, developed, manufactured or supplied by persons linked to China or Russia.
• Knowingly selling in the United States completed connected vehicles that incorporate VCS hardware or covered software if the seller is linked to China or Russia, regardless of whether the vehicles are manufactured or assembled in the United States.

The rule prescribes civil penalties of up to $286,136 per violation and criminal penalties, including fines of up to $1 million and/or imprisonment for up to 20 years. 

Covered Vehicles and Components: 

• The prohibitions on software with a sufficient nexus to Russia and China would take effect for model-year-'27 vehicles, and the prohibitions on hardware would take effect for model-year-'30 vehicles (effective January 1, 2029, for units without a model year).  
• The rule covers VCS (i.e. systems and components that connect a vehicle to the outside world), including via Bluetooth, cellular, satellite and Wi-Fi modules), and ADS, which allows highly autonomous vehicles to operate without a driver behind the wheel.  
• The proposal targets hardware and software for VCS that enable radio frequency communications over 450 MHz and software for ADS. Commerce notes that, by setting this threshold, it is targeting hardware and software that pose a higher risk due to their connectivity and transmission functions, while lowering compliance burden by excluding from regulation those information and communications technology and services (ICTS) with functions that pose a lower risk and offer high utility to consumers (e.g., tire pressure monitoring systems, electronic key fobs). 
• The proposed rule excludes systems such as vehicle operating systems (OS), automated driver assistance systems (ADAS) or battery management systems (BMS) unless they have VCS components and fall within the proposed rule's definition of VCS hardware. 
• In order to reduce unnecessary economic impacts and supply disruption, the proposal would regulate ADS software rather than the hardware components of ADAS and ADS. The hardware that enables ADAS and ADS varies widely between different OEMs. In contrast, the hardware that enables VCS are relatively consistent across different automotive architectures and designs. 

Covered Hardware:  

• The rule covers VCS hardware, which are the physical components and subcomponents that enable a vehicle to connect and communicate with external networks and devices. 
• Commerce defines "VCS hardware" as software-enabled or programmable components and subcomponents that support VCS, including microcontrollers, microcomputers or modules, systems on a chip, networking or telematics units, cellular modem/modules, Wi-Fi microcontrollers or modules, Bluetooth microcontrollers or modules, satellite navigation systems, satellite communication systems, other wireless communication microcontrollers or modules, and external antennas.  
• This rule covers aftermarket telematics devices, including fleet tracking devices and systems, that fulfill functions consistent with the definition of VCS hardware. 

Covered Software:  

• The proposed rule applies to the software-based components that support the functions of VCS or ADS for the connected vehicle.  
• VCS software supports the transmission, receipt, conversion, or processing of radio frequency communications.  
• ADS includes software enabling the control of automated systems classified as Levels 3, 4, and 5 by SAE International Standard J3016. The proposed rule does not apply to firmware or open-source software unless the open-source software has been modified for proprietary purposes and not redistributed or shared. 
• For VCS hardware and vehicles containing covered software that are not prohibited from importation into or sale within the United States, importers and manufacturers would be required to submit compliance declarations to the Bureau of Industry and Security providing detailed information on such items. This provision is anticipated to apply to software that is not wholly developed in the United States by American-owned companies.  

Proposed Exemptions: 

• The proposed rule includes procedures to let certain parties, such as small producers of vehicles, receive exemptions from the prohibitions on an exceptional basis, in order to minimize unanticipated and unnecessary disruption to industry. 
• The proposed rule also provides general authorizations to alleviate the burden on small businesses (with total model-year production of less than 1,000 hardware or vehicle units) and companies engaged in off-road testing, research and repair. 

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

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA is thrilled to announce a partnership with FastSensor, a leader in AI-powered analytics for in-person events. This collaboration aims to provide exhibitors at the upcoming SEMA Show--November 5-8, Las Vegas--with groundbreaking visitor engagement insights, empowering them to optimize their presence and maximize their impact at this prestigious trade event. 

FastSensor's innovative technology utilizes discreetly installed sensors to measure foot traffic and visitor engagement in real time. By tracking interactions and movement patterns, exhibitors will gain deep insights into visitor behavior and the flow of traffic through their booths. Tools such as conversion funnels, connected journey charts and heatmaps will help reveal how each display area and content engagement contributes to overall booth success, allowing exhibitors to refine their strategies on the fly. 

"Partnering with FastSensor represents a significant step forward in enhancing the experience for our exhibitors," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "This new platform solution for measuring and improving visitor engagement will provide our exhibitors with valuable data, ultimately elevating the overall event experience and ROI." 

As part of this collaboration, exhibitors will have the opportunity to request comprehensive post-event reports, offering detailed insights that will inform their future strategic planning and optimization efforts. This level of detailed analytics will be available at the SEMA Show for the first time, giving exhibitors a competitive edge in understanding their audience and improving their exhibition strategies. 

"Working with SEMA is an exciting opportunity for FastSensor," said Daniel Bichara, CEO of FastSensor. "Our mission is to empower exhibitors to make data-driven decisions that enhance their engagement with attendees. By providing real-time analytics, we enable brands to optimize their strategies and create a more impactful presence at the show." 

The integration of FastSensor's technology at the SEMA Show will not only benefit exhibitors but will also enhance the experience for attendees, allowing for more personalized interactions and a greater understanding of their interests. 

To learn more about how FastSensor will enhance your experience at the SEMA Show, visit the FastSensor website!

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and The Work Truck Association (NTEA) today filed suit in the U.S. District Court's Eastern District of California against the California Air Resources Board (CARB), seeking immediate declaratory and injunctive relief to stop electric vehicle mandates CARB intends to implement through its Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulations. The organizations contend that CARB's actions far exceed California's constitutional and state statutory authority and will have a dire effect on an industry that historically has led the way toward cleaner, safer vehicles through innovation and American ingenuity--particularly through alternative-fuel innovations, replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions and converting older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles.    

CARB's ACF regulation includes requirements that only zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) may cross within California's borders, regardless of which state the vehicle was purchased or registered. Vehicles covered by the regulation include everything from heavy-duty tractors with sleeper cabs to work trucks, pickup trucks and light-duty package delivery vehicles. Interstate motor carriers and others who do not own CARB's vehicle of choice would be barred from operating within the nation's largest single-state economy for even a moment. This issue is currently under consideration by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, whose waiver is necessary for the state to proceed.  

SEMA and NTEA are filing the lawsuit on behalf of their members who own and operate fleets of vehicles regulated by the ACF regulations, or manufacture, market and sell specialty vehicles, trucks and automotive aftermarket products that may become obsolete in California and other markets if CARB is allowed to proceed in decreeing an end to internal combustion engine vehicles.  

"The overreach of California has forced the hand of the automotive industry, making this legal action necessary to protect the interests of the thousands of automotive aftermarket companies whose $337 billion annual economic impact helps drive our nation's economy," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "The illegal means by which California has sought to tilt the board by siding with just one technology is to the great detriment of a giant swath of the nation's small businesses and threatens a dangerous precedent upon the American people." 

"Ultimately, work trucks must be available, capable and affordable. It is important to reach this desired outcome using a sensible and cost-effective approach so our member businesses can continue to build and supply the vehicles that are essential for commerce," said NTEA President and CEO Steve Carey. "Left unchecked, the current suite of California regulations will severely curtail the ability of work truck users to obtain the vehicles they need to successfully and efficiently carry out their vital missions and support ongoing business operations." 

The lawsuit highlights unprecedented necessity due to the significant overreach the ACF regulations represent, far exceeding California's constitutional and state statutory authority. The regulation furthermore will undermine, rather than foster, the innovation borne of the automotive aftermarket industry that has historically generated many groundbreaking solutions to cleaner, safer motor vehicles. 

In seeking the court's relief, the organizations establish standing on the basis of:

• Ripeness, in that regulated entities (which include SEMA and NTEA members) must comply with the ACF regulations immediately, even though the EPA has not approved the state's action. California is reserving the right to enforce ACF's provisions retroactively—including by forcing fleets to remove vehicles newly added to their fleets—once the proceedings before the EPA conclude.
• Preemption, in which vehicles purchased or sold outside of California are subject to the federal Clean Air Act and Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act, both of which preempt the ACF regulations and California's authority over interstate commerce.
• State law prohibition, in which California's own legislature more than 20 years ago prohibited CARB full-stop from setting the prohibitions contained in the ACF regulations when it declared for a similar regulation that CARB "shall not require . . . a ban on the sale of any vehicle category in the state."
• Dormant Commerce Clause and Equal Protection Clause violations, which are discriminatory in nature, because ACF regulations place burdens on federally regulated out-of-state organizations, solely because of their nationwide, non-California operations. This means that non-California organizations – even those whose operations are primarily out-of-state – face a larger compliance burden than their California-based counterparts.   
• Due process (vagueness), in which multiple ACF provisions render even the most fundamental requirements of the regulations unconstitutionally vague.

In bringing this action, SEMA and NTEA seek a declaration and injunction, and any other appropriate relief, to redress injuries and prevent further unlawful actions by the defendants in issuing and enforcing the ACF regulations.

Neither SEMA nor NTEA are anti-EV; rather, the organizations are steadfast in their shared belief that a technology-neutral approach is the best way to achieve lower vehicle emissions. By declaring one technology as the preferred solution of government, California is kneecapping other potential solutions, regardless of their promise to deliver the results the state seeks.

Established in 1964, NTEA, a 501(c)(6) organization, represents more than 2,100 companies that manufacture, distribute, install, sell and repair commercial vehicles, truck bodies, truck equipment, trailers and accessories. Buyers of work trucks and the major commercial truck chassis manufacturers also belong to NTEA.

For more information, visit ntea.com or sema.org/advocacy.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and The Work Truck Association (NTEA) today filed suit in the U.S. District Court's Eastern District of California against the California Air Resources Board (CARB), seeking immediate declaratory and injunctive relief to stop electric vehicle mandates CARB intends to implement through its Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) regulations. The organizations contend that CARB's actions far exceed California's constitutional and state statutory authority and will have a dire effect on an industry that historically has led the way toward cleaner, safer vehicles through innovation and American ingenuity--particularly through alternative-fuel innovations, replacing older engine technologies with newer, cleaner versions and converting older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to new electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles.    

CARB's ACF regulation includes requirements that only zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) may cross within California's borders, regardless of which state the vehicle was purchased or registered. Vehicles covered by the regulation include everything from heavy-duty tractors with sleeper cabs to work trucks, pickup trucks and light-duty package delivery vehicles. Interstate motor carriers and others who do not own CARB's vehicle of choice would be barred from operating within the nation's largest single-state economy for even a moment. This issue is currently under consideration by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, whose waiver is necessary for the state to proceed.  

SEMA and NTEA are filing the lawsuit on behalf of their members who own and operate fleets of vehicles regulated by the ACF regulations, or manufacture, market and sell specialty vehicles, trucks and automotive aftermarket products that may become obsolete in California and other markets if CARB is allowed to proceed in decreeing an end to internal combustion engine vehicles.  

"The overreach of California has forced the hand of the automotive industry, making this legal action necessary to protect the interests of the thousands of automotive aftermarket companies whose $337 billion annual economic impact helps drive our nation's economy," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "The illegal means by which California has sought to tilt the board by siding with just one technology is to the great detriment of a giant swath of the nation's small businesses and threatens a dangerous precedent upon the American people." 

"Ultimately, work trucks must be available, capable and affordable. It is important to reach this desired outcome using a sensible and cost-effective approach so our member businesses can continue to build and supply the vehicles that are essential for commerce," said NTEA President and CEO Steve Carey. "Left unchecked, the current suite of California regulations will severely curtail the ability of work truck users to obtain the vehicles they need to successfully and efficiently carry out their vital missions and support ongoing business operations." 

The lawsuit highlights unprecedented necessity due to the significant overreach the ACF regulations represent, far exceeding California's constitutional and state statutory authority. The regulation furthermore will undermine, rather than foster, the innovation borne of the automotive aftermarket industry that has historically generated many groundbreaking solutions to cleaner, safer motor vehicles. 

In seeking the court's relief, the organizations establish standing on the basis of:

• Ripeness, in that regulated entities (which include SEMA and NTEA members) must comply with the ACF regulations immediately, even though the EPA has not approved the state's action. California is reserving the right to enforce ACF's provisions retroactively—including by forcing fleets to remove vehicles newly added to their fleets—once the proceedings before the EPA conclude.
• Preemption, in which vehicles purchased or sold outside of California are subject to the federal Clean Air Act and Federal Aviation Administration Authorization Act, both of which preempt the ACF regulations and California's authority over interstate commerce.
• State law prohibition, in which California's own legislature more than 20 years ago prohibited CARB full-stop from setting the prohibitions contained in the ACF regulations when it declared for a similar regulation that CARB "shall not require . . . a ban on the sale of any vehicle category in the state."
• Dormant Commerce Clause and Equal Protection Clause violations, which are discriminatory in nature, because ACF regulations place burdens on federally regulated out-of-state organizations, solely because of their nationwide, non-California operations. This means that non-California organizations – even those whose operations are primarily out-of-state – face a larger compliance burden than their California-based counterparts.   
• Due process (vagueness), in which multiple ACF provisions render even the most fundamental requirements of the regulations unconstitutionally vague.

In bringing this action, SEMA and NTEA seek a declaration and injunction, and any other appropriate relief, to redress injuries and prevent further unlawful actions by the defendants in issuing and enforcing the ACF regulations.

Neither SEMA nor NTEA are anti-EV; rather, the organizations are steadfast in their shared belief that a technology-neutral approach is the best way to achieve lower vehicle emissions. By declaring one technology as the preferred solution of government, California is kneecapping other potential solutions, regardless of their promise to deliver the results the state seeks.

Established in 1964, NTEA, a 501(c)(6) organization, represents more than 2,100 companies that manufacture, distribute, install, sell and repair commercial vehicles, truck bodies, truck equipment, trailers and accessories. Buyers of work trucks and the major commercial truck chassis manufacturers also belong to NTEA.

For more information, visit ntea.com or sema.org/advocacy.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Joalda Lopez of Rebel Road Hot Rod Garage as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Lopez in her interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?  

Joalda Lopez: I have owned my automotive restoration shop for two years! I absolutely enjoy seeing the smiles on my customers' faces when they see their projects that may have been sitting in their garage for years or their dream car come back to life. Watching them drop off their vehicle by tow truck to driving it off the parking lot is my favorite thing in the whole world. 

SN: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?  

JL: Having no business background. Going from a "nine-to-five" with a set job description to becoming a business owner with every job description within a short amount of time has been extremely challenging. 

SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?  

JL: I have "professionally" been in the industry for two years beginning with the start of my business but I have been working on cars since my early teens. 

SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?  

JL: Resilience. Resilience because I have personally been through a lot, I have been blessed to have the mindset of "ok, this is an opportunity for learning." Despite how tragic, difficult, or defeating the situation may be. There is only one way to go after hitting rock bottom, right? 

Passion. Passion has allowed me to stay focused on my goals. I go through the hard days and fight through the frustrations because I am passionate about what I do. What I have done and what I aspire to do. 

Befriending fear. I have learned that success is always on the other side of fear. Fear alone is what keeps people from reaching their dreams. Until I personally saw that happen to me, fear controlled my life, and robbed me of opportunity. I will always be fearful of what I don't know or understand. But, now it never holds me back. 

It's difficult in moments of uncertainty to see any of these qualities working in my favor. But without them, I would not be where I am nor who I am today. 

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments? 

JL: I am currently the only female automotive restoration shop owner in my state. Forcing my way into group conversations, earning respect of the local car community and being taken seriously with clients have been my biggest challenges. These are challenges that I will continue to have to overcome for the entirety of my career. With that have come my accomplishments of owning the fastest-growing auto restoration shop in my state, introducing a new "best of the city" category, in "Automotive Restoration Services," which we have been awarded two years in a row, being the highest rated auto restoration shop in the state and other accomplishments. I have had instances where customers have come in and have asked for "the man in charge," "the boss," or "someone who knows cars." (I own the shop with my fiancé.) I Immediately correct those remarks with "I am the man in charge," "I am the boss," and a repeat of " hello, how can I help you." I make it very clear that I expect the same respect and acknowledgment as my male counterparts. This goes for anyone who walks through our doors. 

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?    

JL: My mentor has been my fiancé. He has been living and breathing cars since he was a kid. He has done nothing else but be around cars his entire life. He is admirably passionate and is a walking encyclopedia when it comes to old cars. He is also very skilled. In the last four years, he has been working on making me a skilled welder, fabricator and mechanic. 

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?  

JL: "If you don't fight for you, no one else will." It is 100% up to me to get up every day tackle the day, force my way where I want to be and be treated the way I deserve to be treated. 

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?  

JL: I honestly, never saw myself working professionally in the automotive industry. Much less being an owner of an auto shop. As mentioned earlier, I have been working on cars since my early teens and always have since, but saw it as a hobby. I had a serious medical career before my transition. That's where I thought I needed to be. Since starting my automotive restoration shop, it was as if the stars aligned for me. This is where I belong! The opportunities that have come into my life, the lives that I personally have impacted and that have motivated me, as well as being able to turn my hobby into a dream come true, keep me here. The idea that I am on my way to changing the world--or at least in the automotive industry--is what pushes me through the hard days. 

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career goals?  

JL: The most influential person has been my fiancé. He has been beyond supportive in anything and everything I aspire to do. I wouldn't have thrived in this industry without him constantly pushing me. He also advocates for more women in the industry and makes it clear that I am an equal. He truly works harder than anyone I know, which is extremely motivating to prove I can keep up. 

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.