By SEMA News Editors

The following candidates are vying for a seat on the SEMA Board of Directors:
 

Board Seat Candidates (1 Seat)

• Mike Anderson, Collision Advice
• Jeff Hermann, MagnaFlow Group

 

Voting will take place online May 4 through May 26 and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company's primary contact. Details on the upcoming election will be sent to the member company's designated primary contact. Winners will be announced by June 9.

 

Learn more about the candidates.

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

As engineering teams across the automotive aftermarket generate massive amounts of data, one challenge remains constant: how to turn that data into clear, confident decisions.
 

To address this issue, the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) will host the virtual education session, "Using AI to Turn Engineering Data Into Clear Decisions: Reducing Iterations Across Design, Testing and Calibration" on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. PT/3:00 p.m. ET.

Tailored to engineers, product developers, calibration specialists and technical professionals, this webinar will cover how artificial intelligence (AI) is being applied to help technical teams reduce noise, identify meaningful patterns and support confident decisions across design, testing, tuning, calibration and customer tech support workflows.
 

Attendees will learn where AI provides practical value in engineering analysis, where its limitations must be understood and how teams are using AI-assisted insights to reduce rework and unnecessary development iterations while maintaining performance, safety and compliance standards.
 

Attendees will leave the session knowing how to:
 

• Identify which engineering data signals matter most during product development and validation.
• Use AI-assisted analysis to reduce noise and uncover meaningful trends.
• Improve alignment between engineering and product teams through clearer data interpretation.
• Understand practical limitations and validation requirements when applying AI to engineering data.
• Reduce rework and iteration cycles without compromising technical rigor.
• Utilize AI tools and bots to assist customer technical support.
   

Moderated by Kannan Parekh, founder and CEO of Allion Tech, this session will feature speakers Bob Morreale, president at The Tuning School, Inc.; and Kelleigh Shankel, ChEO at Limelight Logic.

If your engineering team is looking to work smarter with the data you already have, this is a session you won't want to miss. Register.

 

 

_{Feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | StudioProX}

 

 

Mercedes Brings an Electric-Only C-Class EQ

 

In 2027, Mercedes will again raise the bar with the launch of its highly anticipated next-generation all-electric compact sedan. The new Mercedes C-Class EQ will embody cutting-edge technology, sustainability and the brand's commitment to a greener automotive future.

 

The Mercedes C-Class EQ features a sleek, aerodynamic design that seamlessly blends elegance with functionality. The exterior showcases distinctive LED lighting elements, a sculpted front grille and a futuristic silhouette, signaling a clear departure from conventional combustion-engine designs.

 

Powered by advanced electric drivetrain technology, the C-Class EQ delivers exhilarating performance without compromising efficiency. The electric powertrain provides instant torque, enabling rapid acceleration and a near-silent driving experience. The '27 C-Class EQ will be equipped with a state-of-the-art battery system capable of delivering an impressive range on a single charge, making it a practical choice for both daily commuting and long-distance travel.

 

In line with Mercedes-Benz's commitment to sustainability, the electric C-Class incorporates eco-friendly materials throughout its interior. The cabin features responsibly sourced wood accents, recycled textiles and other environmentally conscious materials, setting a new standard for luxury vehicles that prioritize the planet.

 

 

The new Mercedes C-Class EQ will be equipped with the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system. A large touchscreen interface, intuitive voice controls and seamless smartphone integration provide a futuristic, user-friendly driving experience. Additionally, the vehicle will offer advanced driver-assistance features, including autonomous driving capabilities for a safer and more relaxed journey.

 

Mercedes has also invested heavily in expanding electric charging infrastructure, ensuring C-Class EQ owners have convenient access to a robust network of charging stations. With fast-charging capabilities, the vehicle can recharge a significant portion of its battery in a short amount of time, minimizing downtime and enhancing the overall ownership experience.

 

With competitive pricing, the electric Mercedes C-Class aims to make sustainable luxury accessible to a broader market. It will be available in multiple trim levels, allowing customers to select features that best suit their preferences. The vehicle is set to roll out in key global markets through a phased release plan designed to meet growing demand.

 

 

Still Electric-Only: Facelifted Renault Megane E-Tech Arrives Later This Year

 

 

Renault expects an all-new Megane generation to launch "before the end of the decade," as Francois Provost, the new CEO of Renault Group, confirmed to members of the press at the Twingo launch. It may also bring back ICE power––though in a different form. Renault does not intend to phase out the Megane’s electric drivetrain but instead plans to give customers more choice in the future. In addition to fully electric versions, a hybrid variant is in the works.

 

Fabrice Cambolive, Renault brand director, favors a range extender over a plug-in hybrid. In this setup, an efficient gasoline engine operates solely as a generator to charge the traction battery, while the electric motor continues to drive the wheels.

 

 

Until the Megane with a range extender arrives, a facelift is intended to keep the current electric version competitive. A prototype of the refreshed model was recently spotted in France. Alongside cosmetic updates, the primary focus is on technology. The current battery, with a maximum capacity of 60 kWh (up to 459 km WLTP range), is seen as a limiting factor.

 

A larger battery pack––modeled on the Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric (87 kWh, up to 615 km WLTP) or a 75 kWh version from a related Nissan platform––is expected to expand the lineup’s upper range and improve real-world usability.

 

 

All-Electric and All-Sporty: The Opel Corsa GSE

 

 

 

Stellantis' new Opel Corsa GSE prototype was recently spotted in action at the Nürburgring. The previous performance version of the Opel Corsa, the Corsa OPC, was powered by a 1.6L turbocharged gasoline engine––complete with a throaty exhaust note. The future range-topping model of the compact car, however, is set to accelerate in near silence.

 

According to Stellantis, order books are expected to open before the end of the year. The Corsa GSE follows the Opel Mokka GSE and is expected to share key technical components. The compact performance model is based on the current Corsa and rides on the CMP platform. A next-generation Corsa is not expected until 2027.

 

Visually, the Corsa GSE is likely to stand apart from the standard production model. Early teaser imagery highlighted a bold, expressive wheel design, and recent spy shots captured the vehicle in early-morning testing. The colorful camouflage enhances its dynamic appearance, though it remains a deliberate disguise. If Opel follows cues from the Mokka GSE, a distinctive new color scheme could also play a role.

 

Stellantis has not yet released detailed technical specifications. However, if the Mokka GSE serves as a benchmark, the Corsa GSE could deliver similar performance. The Mokka GSE produces approximately 277 hp (mechanical horsepower) and 254 lb.-ft. of torque, with a 0–62 mph time of 5.9 seconds.

 

 

Eurig Druce said, "The Corsa GSE is designed to combine everyday practicality with performance and dynamism."

 

Pricing is expected to come in slightly below the Mokka GSE, which starts at approximately $55,528 in Europe. On paper and on the road, the Corsa GSE could emerge as a serious rival to Volkswagen's GTI models, sources indicate. The GSE badge dates back to the '70s, when it appeared on models like the Opel Commodore A GS/E. At the time, the designation stood for "Grand Sport Einspritzer" (German for "injection").

 

In 2022, Opel reintroduced the GSE label, repurposing it as "Grand Sport Electric" to distinguish plug-in hybrid variants of the Astra, Astra Sports Tourer and earlier Grandland models. The next evolution arrived in 2025, when the badge was reserved exclusively for fully electric Opel vehicles. Under this strategy, all GSE models combine sporty styling with more dynamic chassis tuning, with the Opel Mokka GSE serving as the first example.

 

Opel also unveiled the Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept in 2025. The show car debuted at the IAA Mobility show in Munich and later appeared in the PlayStation game Gran Turismo 7 in fall 2025. In virtual form, the concept boasts approximately 811 hp and 590 lb.-ft. of torque––figures unlikely to carry over to production. Still, it raises the question of how much of that bold concept DNA will influence the final Corsa GSE.

 

 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

 

If you're planning your 2026 SEMA Show trip and want to stay on budget without sacrificing convenience, now's the time to act. 

 

SEMA Show and its housing provider, onPeak, have negotiated exclusive, discounted nightly rates at the best hotels in Las Vegas.

 

Showgoers can only get the discounted rates when they book through the official online hotel portal.

 

Available right now, Showgoers can save more than $100 a night at these hotels:

• Aria 
• Bellagio 
• Caesars Palace 
• Circa 
• Cosmopolitan
• The Cromwell 
• Encore 
• Fontainebleau 
• Four Seasons
• The LINQ 
• The Palazzo 
• Renaissance 
• Resorts World Conrad 
• Resorts World Hilton  
• SAHARA 
• Trump 
• Vdara 
• The Venetian
• Waldorf Astoria 

 

*All rates include the mandatory hotel fee and are subject to change.

 

With rates this low during one of the busiest weeks in Las Vegas, demand is high. Booking early is the best way to lock in these prices before they're grabbed up by savvy Showgoers.

 

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration opens on May 4th; to sign up for notifications, visit here. For more information, visit semashow.com. 

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

French President Emmanuel Macron Attends Groundbreaking at Sage Automotive Interiors Facility

Sage Automotive Interiors, a provider in the automotive interior materials industry, recently celebrated the groundbreaking of a new geotextile collaboration between the French government, Occitanie Géotex and Sage at the company's Laroque d'Olmes, France, plant site.

The groundbreaking event was attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, executives from Sage and Occitanie Géotex, plus other government officials and community leaders. Occitanie Géotex, a French manufacturer developing a local and sustainable alternative to synthetic geotextiles and imported natural fibers, is building its new facility at a site contributed by Sage.

"Sage is proud to partner with Occitanie Géotex and the French government on this innovative project, and we are honored by the presence of the President of the Republic," said Dan Russian, president and CEO, Sage Automotive Interiors. "As a global leader in automotive interiors, this natural fiber geonets project marks a strategic and fundamental step for our future. This project is perfectly aligned with our values and commitments, particularly in terms of corporate social and environmental responsibility."

As a foundational component of this project, Sage sold the brownfield site at their Laroque facility for the symbolic price of one euro. This helped pave the way for today's groundbreaking of the geotextile production unit, which will help shape the future of the Pays d'Olmes region and beyond.

"I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Sage Automotive Interiors and its representatives who are here today for their invaluable assistance," said Victor Lamego, CEO, Occitanie Géotex. "This project, with which we have partnered since its inception, is the result of close and constructive local, human, technical and industrial collaboration with Occitanie Géotex, even before the company was officially established."

Occitanie Géotex is a French manufacturer based in Ariège, specializing in the design of biodegradable geotextiles and geonets from natural fibers, mainly hemp grown in the Occitanie region. The company is developing a local and sustainable alternative to synthetic geotextiles and imported natural fibers, with applications in multiple industrial sectors.

"It is important to remember that this factory will be built on a former SAGE industrial site," added Lamego. "This close partnership, which began during the development of our products, aims to continue within a framework of industrial and commercial synergy."

For more information, visit sageautomotiveinteriors.com.

 

Polestar: Emissions Per Sold Car Cut by 31% in Five Years

 

Polestar, the Swedish electric-vehicle (EV) manufacturer, announced that the company has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions per sold car by 31% since 2020, according to data published in its "2025 Sustainability Report."
 

The reduction in emissions per sold car since 2020 reflects the company's focus on increasing renewable energy use related to battery production and manufacturing, and use of low-carbon materials. Over the past year, increased volumes of Polestar 4, the company's lowest carbon footprint car to date, has also been a significant factor, alongside the expansion of renewable energy across key European markets, which drives down use-phase emissions. Europe remains Polestar's largest market, representing more than 75% of sales. Polestar continues to stay below its emissions reduction curve, heading towards its goal of becoming a climate-neutral company by 2040.
 

"If you are not reducing emissions while growing, you are choosing not to," said Polestar CEO Michael Lohscheller. Electrification delivers clear value for customers: lower running costs, lower emissions and greater peace of mind, as volatile oil prices and fuel scarcity mean pump anxiety is increasingly replacing range anxiety. As clean electricity scales, electric vehicles are becoming not just the sustainable choice, but the smarter, more reliable one."
 

For more information, visit polestar.com.

 

Smart Eye Secures Additional Interior Sensing AI Order with Major Japanese OEM

 

Smart Eye, a developer of driver monitoring system (DMS) and interior sensing software for the automotive industry, has secured an additional order with a major Japanese vehicle manufacturer to add interior sensing artificial intelligence (AI) to two existing vehicle programs. 

The order was secured in collaboration with a global Tier 1 supplier and builds on the vehicle programs announced in April 2025, when Smart Eye was selected to deliver DMS software for two new vehicle models. The new agreement adds interior sensing AI to both of those vehicle models, further expanding Smart Eye's role within the program. 

Interior sensing AI combines driver and occupant monitoring capabilities, enabling the vehicle to better understand activity and occupant status throughout the cabin. The new order reflects growing demand for solutions that combine driver monitoring with broader in-cabin sensing, and expands Smart Eye's role within an existing customer program. 

Production of the models featuring Smart Eye's interior sensing AI is scheduled to begin in mid-2027.

"This is the third OEM choosing cabin monitoring from Smart Eye" says Martin Krantz, CEO and founder of Smart Eye. "We are once again upselling interior sensing to our DMS customers. This is a solid trend that we expect will accelerate"

With this additional order, Smart Eye's Interior Sensing technology has been selected for a total of 12 car models by multiple OEMs.

Visit smarteye.ai for more information.

 By SEMA News Editors

 

 

The automotive aftermarket is entering a new phase––less volatile than the pandemic years, but no less complex.

 

The "2026 SEMA Future Trends and Industry Update" offers a clear-eyed look at what's changing across the economy, vehicle landscape and consumer behavior––and what it all means for automotive aftermarket businesses.

 

This article highlights some key takeaways, but it only scratches the surface. The full report dives deeper with data, forecasts and analysis designed to help businesses plan what's next.

 

 

A Return to "Normal"––But a Different Normal

 

After years of disruption, the specialty-equipment industry is stabilizing. Sales have reached $52.65 billion, with growth expected to settle into a more typical 3%–4% annual pace.

 

That doesn’t mean things are going back to the way they were.

 

Consumer demand remains strong, but it's navigating higher prices, elevated borrowing costs and ongoing uncertainty around tariffs and inflation. For aftermarket businesses, this creates a more balanced––but more competitive––environment.

 

What it means: Companies that focus on value, differentiation and service will be better positioned as the market normalizes.

 

The Consumer Balancing Act

 

Today's consumers are still spending––but not evenly.

 

On one end, affluent buyers continue to invest in premium upgrades and personalization. On the other, cost-conscious consumers are prioritizing essential maintenance and lower-cost improvements.

 

What it means: Successful businesses will need to serve both sides––offering premium innovation alongside practical, value-driven solutions.

 

Trucks, CUVs and an Aging Fleet Drive Opportunity

 

The vehicles Americans drive continue to define the aftermarket.

 

• Light trucks and CUVs now account for more than 80% of new-vehicle sales.
• The total vehicle on the road has surpassed 295 million vehicles––and continues to grow.
• Vehicles are staying on the road longer than ever.

 

That combination is powerful.

 

A larger, older fleet translates directly into increased demand for repair, maintenance and personalization––core strengths of the aftermarket.

 

What it means: Product development and fitment strategies that align with trucks, crossovers and aging vehicles will remain critical.

 

EVs Slow, Hybrids Surge, ICE Stays Relevant

 

Electrification is still evolving––but not as quickly or as predictably as once expected.

• Electric vehicle (EV) adoption is slowing amid cost concerns and infrastructure challenges.
• Automakers are recalibrating investments.
• Hybrids are gaining traction as a practical middle ground.

 

Meanwhile, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles will remain a dominant force for years to come.

 

What it means: The aftermarket doesn't need to pivot overnight. ICE products remain essential, hybrid opportunities are growing and EV strategies can be more measured.

 

Financing Is Changing Ownership Cycles

 

Higher interest rates are reshaping how––and whether––consumers buy vehicles.

• New-vehicle rates hover around 7.6%.
• Used-vehicle rates are even higher, around 11.4%.
• Monthly payments exceeding $1,000 are increasingly common.

 

At the same time, tighter lending standards are pushing more buyers out of the new-vehicle market.

 

What it means: Vehicle owners are holding onto vehicles longer—creating sustained demand for aftermarket parts, upgrades and services.

 

ADAS: Opportunity Meets Complexity

 

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are no longer optional––they’re becoming virtually standard.

 

From automatic emergency braking to lane-keeping systems, these technologies are rapidly expanding across the vehicle fleet, with additional regulations on the horizon.

 

But they also introduce new challenges. Even small modifications––lift kits, bumpers, lighting––can affect sensor performance, and there's still no universal standard across OEMs.

 

What it means: Aftermarket companies must invest in understanding ADAS integration, calibration and testing. Resources like SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar and Detroit are becoming essential tools for navigating this complexity.

 

A Market Full of Opportunity––If You Know Where to Look

 

Despite economic pressures and industry shifts, the fundamentals remain strong. Key opportunities include:

• A growing truck and CUV market.
• An aging vehicle fleet.
• Continued enthusiast engagement––especially among younger consumers.
• Expanding hybrid adoption.
• New product categories shaped by ADAS.

 

At the same time, challenges––from tariffs to technician shortages––require strategic planning and adaptability.

 

Get the Full Picture

 

The "2026 SEMA Future Trends and Industry Update Report" delivers far more than high-level insights. Inside, you'll find:

• Detailed charts and forecasts.
• Consumer behavior analysis.
• Segment-specific data.
• Deeper dives into the trends shaping your business.

 

In a market defined by change, staying informed isn't optional––it's a competitive advantage.

 

Access the full report to see what's next for the automotive aftermarket––and how to prepare for it.

 

 

SEMA's Market Research team provides information and insight to help SEMA members and the specialty auto aftermarket industry make better business decisions. Its focus is on providing reports, data and consultation to help companies understand the current market and state of consumers. Learn more at sites.sema.org/market-research.

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Limited spots remain for May's SEMA Garage Detroit AUTEL ADAS training, with an exclusive third day available to book.

As demand for advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) expertise continues to rise, SEMA Garage is once again partnering with AUTEL to deliver hands-on, in-depth training designed to keep repair professionals ahead of rapidly evolving vehicle technology. These highly sought-after sessions focus on ADAS fundamentals, calibration techniques and proper reporting practices, skills that are becoming increasingly critical as more ADAS-equipped vehicles enter the market.

 

The next opportunity to participate in this training takes place at SEMA Garage Detroit, where space is limited and registration is filling quickly. SEMA Garage Detroit will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, May 5, and Wednesday, May 6, with an optional expanded third day of training on Thursday, May 7, at the facility located at 14655 Jib St., Plymouth, MI, 48170. (View on Google Maps here). Only a limited number of seats remain for the May session. 

 

For attendees looking to take their training even further, SEMA Garage now offers an exclusive expanded third day of instruction. The optional Day 3 on May 7 builds on the two-day curriculum by applying diagnostics, decision-making and liability awareness to real-world ADAS calibration scenarios. Rather than standalone lectures, participants work through hands-on exercises designed to reinforce confidence and accuracy in the field. To participate, select the "3-Day" option when registering on the Autel website. Note: The "Day 3" option requires an additional fee. 

 

How to Reserve Your Spot 

 

👉 Reserve your spot now at the Autel Academy website by: 

• Visiting autel.us/autel-academy.
• Select ADAS TRAINING.
• Navigate to the "Detroit" tab and click REGISTER.

 

Previous SEMA Garage AUTEL training sessions sold out quickly, and organizers encourage early registration, especially for the limited-capacity Detroit event.

 

Want more details? Read a recap article here, or reach out to Autel via email to academy@autel.com or visit autel.us/autel-academy for details.

 

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

SEMA member companies in automotive restyling have limited time left to register for the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) virtual general membership meeting and panel discussion on the 2026 PRO Cup Challenge, taking place Tuesday, May 12, at 10:30 a.m. PT/1:30 p.m. ET.
 

PRO is dedicated to supporting the restyling industry through offering its members business tools to help them succeed. During the general membership meeting, select committee leaders will share brief updates on key initiatives, upcoming events and resources available to members.
 

The event will transition into a panel discussion on the upcoming 2026 PRO Cup Challenge––the aftermarket industry's premier competition spotlighting automotive restylers at the SEMA Show. Featuring past winners as panelists, the discussion offers a timely opportunity to hear:

• Highlights from their experience
• What motivated them to apply
• Challenges faced and memorable moments
• How competing impacted their company
• Top reasons to apply in 2026
• Advice for prospective applicants
   

PRO membership is open to SEMA member companies serving the restyling and accessory markets, including manufacturers, warehouse distributors, restylers and installers. If this sounds like you, don't miss this opportunity to grow your business and network by getting more involved.
 

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Dean Case, a consultant at Motivo Engineering and Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) SoCal volunteer, as its newest Allyship Spotlight honoree.

 

Learn how Case supports women in the industry and promotes the ally mindset in the SEMA News interview below. 

 

SEMA News: What do you do to support the ally mentality and women's empowerment?

Dean Case: I like to assist others in launching their careers. I meet many young women on Baja SAE and Formula SAE teams who have the skills and passion, but often lack the connections. I help make those connections.

 

SN: Can you share your favorite experience being an ally?  

DC: Two of my favorite stories are helping Grace Hackenberg and Abby Hempy. 
 

Grace was an engineering student at Smith College. The Smith College engineering program is quite new, very small and excellent in quality.  I hosted Grace and a few of her classmates at Watkins Glen for a race weekend. At the end of the day, we sat and talked. Grace asked if I thought they should try building a Formula SAE car. I said you have the brain power, but not the facilities required. I suggested the Grassroots Motorsports $2,000 Challenge as an alternative. I suggested a crowdfunding approach and helped her raise $8,000. 
 

She built a great car and placed well at the competition. Since this was a great story, I pitched it to a journalist at The Wall Street Journal. Grace and the car landed in The Wall Street Journal which led to her first job out of college. Since then, she has moved on to working on the Arrow McLaren INDYCAR team. 
 

Two years later, Abby reached out to me. I had briefly met her in 2018 when she was an undergrad at the University of Minnesota where she was on their FSAE team. It was 2020 when she reached out to me and she was now a grad student at Michigan Tech, and was wondering how, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she might land a motorsports job. I suggested the GRM $2,000 Challenge and told her I had a template that worked.  When I posted her crowdfunding announcement to LinkedIn, a longtime industry friend at NASCAR research and development reached out to Abby and suggested she stop by the NASCAR Charlotte shop on her way to Florida. Abby impressed the folks at NASCAR enough to be hired. She was a part of the Garage 56 Le Mans effort but has since left to get her PhD in engineering. I deserve no credit for them landing those positions, but I will take credit for shining a spotlight on talent to help open doors.

 

SN: Why do you feel that being an ally is important? 

DC: The opposite of being an ally is being the enemy. Everyone should want to be an ally to good people.

                                                                     

SN: What have you found to be the most important/valuable part of being an ally?

DC: Being available to talk and being honest. I never want to talk someone out of motorsports, but I want them to understand what the sport really is.

 

SN: How long have you been in the industry?

DC: Since 1986; I started with Mazda, then Ford, then Nissan, and have been freelance since 2006. 

 

SN: What advice do you have for those that want to become an ally?

DC: Go visit a school. Make yourself available. On the engineering side, think beyond SAE. Reach out to Society of Women Engineers (SWE), Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) and National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).

 

SN: How does someone spread the ally mentality?

DC: I have found success in holding SAE events that showcase women in the industry and sport.

 

Fill out an SBN Ally Spotlight form to highlight how you or a colleague is being an ally to women in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on SBN's social media and in SEMA News.

By SEMA News Editors
 

NASCAR Names Steve O'Donnell CEO, Ben Kennedy COO
 

NASCAR has announced pivotal leadership changes with its board of directors, naming Steve O'Donnell as CEO and Ben Kennedy as COO, positioning the sport for its next phase of growth and innovation. These planned transitions follow a period of sustained momentum and business strength for NASCAR, driven by multi-year media rights agreements, long-term charter extensions and robust partner relationships.

Effective immediately, O'Donnell becomes the first non-France family member to serve as CEO in NASCAR's 78-year history. He assumes all strategic and operational leadership for NASCAR, its affiliated racing series and businesses. Kennedy, in his expanded role as COO, will oversee several core business functions, including the addition of NASCAR's competition department, alongside his current leadership of track and event operations, racing innovation, hospitality and venue strategy. Jim France, who served as NASCAR chairman and CEO since 2018 where he oversaw nearly a decade of innovation and steady growth, will remain as chairman of NASCAR's Board of Directors. Lesa France Kennedy also continues as executive vice chair and NASCAR's Board of Directors remains unchanged.

"I am incredibly proud of the strength and stability we've achieved across the sport, which gives me tremendous confidence in our plan to transition leadership to Steve as NASCAR's next CEO and Ben as COO," said France. "Together, they represent the future of the sport, and along with our world-class executive team and race team partners in the garage, they will guide NASCAR into its exciting next era."
 

As CEO, O'Donnell will focus on advancing NASCAR's vision as one of the world's premier sports and entertainment brands. Previously serving as NASCAR's sixth president, O'Donnell is one of the sport's longest tenured and respected executives with more than 30 years of service across competition, operations, marketing and business functions--from grassroots racing through the NASCAR Cup Series. He will also lead the development and execution of multi-year strategic plans, financial and performance benchmarks, succession planning, as well as NASCAR's next media rights and evolving content distribution strategies.
 

"It is an honor to step into the role of CEO working alongside Ben and our leadership team at such an important time for our sport," said O'Donnell. "I have devoted nearly my entire l career to NASCAR, this garage and our fans, guided by the France family's commitment to deliver the best racing in the world. I am grateful and energized to continue to collaborate with our colleagues across our sport, while listening to our race fans to realize that vision each and every week."
 

With Ben Kennedy's elevation to NASCAR's COO, he will oversee a range of business- and competition-critical functions, including the addition of competition led by John Probst. Probst will report to Kennedy, who began his NASCAR career on the competition team as general manager of the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Kennedy will also continue to oversee the creation of NASCAR's highly anticipated annual schedule, a key driver of marquee events that expand NASCAR's reach and introduce the sport to new audiences while honoring its most beloved racing traditions that have delivered many iconic sports moments.
 

For more information, visit nascar.com.

 

Image Courtesy of NASCAR | Getty Images/Sean Gardner

 

IHRA Acquires Empire Dragway (NY)
 

The IHRA has acquired Empire Dragway in Leicester, New York, the sanctioning body announced.
 

Empire Dragway has long been a staple in the Northeast racing community, known for its rich history, passionate fan base and competitive racing environment, IHRA officials said. Under IHRA ownership, the facility will undergo strategic enhancements focused on racer experience, fan engagement and long-term operational sustainability.
 

"This is exactly the kind of facility we want to invest in," said Darryl Cuttell, owner of IHRA. "Empire Dragway has a strong foundation and a loyal racing community. Our goal is to build on that momentum--bringing more opportunities for racers, bigger events for fans and ensuring this track continues to thrive for years to come."
 

"Empire Dragway has meant so much to me and to this community over the years," said Jerry Scaccia, former owner of Empire Dragway. "I'm proud of what we've built here, and I truly believe IHRA is the right group to take it to the next level. Their vision for the future of the sport and commitment to racers gives me full confidence that Empire is in great hands."
 

Empire Dragway will host the Outlaw Nitro Series and Small Tire BRATZ Series on July 23-25. Under IHRA ownership, that momentum will continue to build with expanded programming, enhanced amenities and greater opportunities for racers and fans alike, IHRA officials said.
 

Fans and racers can expect upgrades to infrastructure, enhanced safety measures and a renewed focus on delivering a top-tier race day experience. The IHRA said it will work closely with local organizations, teams and the racing community to ensure a seamless transition and continued success of the venue.
 

For more information, visit ihra.com.

 

Image Courtesy of IHRA

 

Mustang Cobra Jet 2200 Becomes Fastest EV in Quarter-Mile
 

 

The evolution of electric drag racing reached a defining moment at the 2026 NHRA 4-Wide Nationals as the Ford Racing Mustang Cobra Jet 2200 established itself as the quickest and fastest electric car in the quarter-mile.
 

In front of a packed crowd at zMax Dragway, the latest Cobra Jet program didn't just continue Ford's legacy, it rewrote the benchmark entirely. Building on the foundation of the Cobra Jet 1400 and the Super Cobra Jet 1800, the Cobra Jet 2200 has taken a decisive leap forward.
 

Early in the weekend, the car recorded a series of blistering passes, culminating in a quickest of 6.766 seconds elapsed time over the quarter-mile distance and a fastest trap speed of 222.36 mph--numbers that firmly place it at the top of electric drag racing performance worldwide.
 

Electric drag racing is not without its pioneers. "Big Daddy" Don Garlits helped bring credibility to the segment with an electric dragster effort that reached more than 186.60 mph, while Steve Huff pushed the envelope even further, eclipsing the 200-mph mark in his electric dragster. Garlits and Huff even gave NHRA fans a taste of EV drag racing together at the 2022 NHRA Gatornationals. Those milestones proved that electric propulsion could compete at a high level.
 

But what the Cobra Jet 2200 has accomplished is different. It hasn't just joined that conversation; it has taken control of it. By combining cutting-edge battery architecture, advanced motor technology and an innovative drivetrain featuring a patented clutch technology coupled to a multi-speed transmission, the Cobra Jet 2200 delivers unmatched elapsed time and top-end speed in a single, cohesive package.
 

The significance of that achievement was not lost on the fans at zMAX. Each pass was met with anticipation, followed by the unmistakable realization that they were witnessing a new era unfold in real time. Ford's commitment to the program was equally visible. With engineering staff on-site throughout the event and the car making multiple exhibition runs across all three days, the Cobra Jet 2200 wasn’t just a showcase--it was a statement of intent.
 

 

"Super proud to be out here with this car," said Jake Powers, electrification, hardware supervisor for Ford Racing. "We've been working on it for so, so long. The team has put in a huge effort over the last couple of years. We came out here, and I think we exceeded not just others expectations but our own with this car. Going 222 mph in a quarter is just phenomenal. And to push the boundaries of technologies, we've learned so much from this car. It is unreal to finally be here, show it to the public and share it and get so much positive feedback. People are out here just loving this car. They love to see what we were able to do with it. And it's been a very special weekend for the whole team."
 

"All of the props to the wonderful engineers at Ford who put in a ton of effort to not only deliver the car but to deliver it consistently across the whole weekend," said Nick Kuhajda, demonstrators program supervisor at Ford Racing. "I mean, over 12 runs, 9 passes below 7 seconds and above 200 mph. The consistency of this car would not be possible without this team and its knowledge, and all of the talent we have there in that building at Ford."
 

"Within the NHRA Technical Department, we work to understand new and emerging technologies through research and collaboration with industry experts and OEMs," said Clinton Snead NHRA, director of engineering. "That understanding is critical to helping keep racers, track officials and spectators safe while also maintaining fair competition. The Mustang Cobra Jet 2200, and our collaboration with Ford engineers, is a great showcase of EV technology and the level of performance these vehicles can produce. Given the progression of EV technology over the past decade, it's exciting to think about what may be on the horizon as battery systems, electric motors, and controls continue to improve. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Ford and other OEMs as that progression continues." 
 

In a sport defined by speed, numbers matter. And right now, no four-wheeled electric drag racing vehicle on the planet can match what the Ford Racing Mustang Cobra Jet 2200 has achieved.
 

For more information, visit nhra.com or visit the Ford From the Road blog.

 

Images courtesy of Ford