Thu, 09/25/2025 - 12:57

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Moab Trail

 

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is reconsidering a 2023 Travel Management Plan (TMP) that closed more than 300 miles of trails near Moab, Utah, a welcome development for the off-road community.

On September 24, BLM announced it will reassess motorized vehicle route designations within the Labyrinth/Gemini Bridges Travel Management Area, near Moab, including whether certain routes currently designated as closed or limited to off-highway vehicles should be redesignated as open to OHV use. BLM proposes reopening more than 145 miles of trails for OHV access.

  • Click here to view an interactive map of the area that includes the routes that BLM has preliminarily identified to reopen. 

SEMA will formally weigh in to support the BLM's proposal as part of a public comment period that ends October 24.

Background

SEMA has a long history of working to protect motorized access to the Labyrinth/Gemini Bridges Travel Management Area. After the Biden administration finalized the 2023 Labyrinth/Gemini Bridges TMP, SEMA supported the Off-Road Business Association's (ORBA) administrative appeal challenging the BLM's proposed closures along with the agency's process surrounding the decision. The challenge highlighted problems with the decision, including inadequate review, incomplete and defective factual data, mapping errors, decisions made from unsupported data and violations of settlement agreements. 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Thu, 09/25/2025 - 12:42

By Cristian Gonzalez

2025 SEMA Show exhibitor story, Race Ramps booth from 2024 image

 

The countdown has begun as we enter the closing weeks leading to the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where you will be exhibiting alongside thousands of automotive manufacturers and have access to 160,000 specialty-equipment market professionals. As Show Week approaches, you're probably thinking there's still time to lock in details such as lodging, promotional packages, freight plans, etc.

You're correct; however, important deadlines are fast approaching, and some will be redlining by the time this issue hits your desk. We'll review some upcoming cost-saving dates you won't want to miss, including freight shipments through Freeman, New Product Showcasing, ad spacing and more.

Offering further insight and final tips before your excursion to Las Vegas are SEMA's Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso and Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins, who are trade show veterans and have key insights to a successful and smooth ride through Show Week.

REDLINING DEADLINES

Your exhibiting experience has many moving parts to consider, and just as many significant dates to keep in mind, other than opening day on November 4. You can find the complete list of important and essential deadlines online at semashow.com/esm. However, we want to highlight a few that will save you money and which you especially won't want to miss.

October 3 marks several key deadlines, including the advanced registration rate for the New Products Showcase (NPS). Your company's first product in NPS is always free. Any other product you wish to enter is $95. However, after the advanced rate deadline, any additional entries will cost $175. For exhibiting companies with numerous new products, NPS is an excellent opportunity to extend your company's footprint at SEMA. "NPS is like a miniature trade show at SEMA, and everything else just scales up from there," says Gattuso.

SEMA New Products Showcase

The New Products Showcase receives the most foot traffic out of any SEMA Show feature. Expand your reach by registering a few products; the first one is free.

 

Tompkins follows, "Think about it in a retail setting. The products create a story and connect with customers before the company does." The more products you can have exhibiting in this showcase, the more of your company's story you'll get out. And the best part is you don't even need to have a new product this year to showcase in NPS, so if you wish to leverage products in NPS, be sure to register them before October 3.

Apart from NPS, there are numerous other ways to promote your brand at the SEMA Show if brand awareness is one of your business goals. SEMA offers various ad spaces--physical and digital--that get your brand's name and booth number in front of thousands of eyes.

At the time this issue went to press, there were still digital ad spaces available for SEMA News, the association's twice-a-week email news blasts that will send daily Show updates as the week progresses. Space is limited however, so contact your sales rep to learn what promotional opportunities are still available.

SAVE ON YOUR SHOW FREIGHT

The journey to Las Vegas begins with shipping your booth materials and products through Freeman, the SEMA Show's official exhibition services contractor. SEMA offers a free freight program through Freeman, where exhibiting companies with less than 400 sq. ft. of booth space can ship up to 500 lbs. of drayage for free.

If you are hovering just above the 500-lb. threshold, a helpful tip to remember is you can still carry smaller items to your booth. While the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) doesn't allow exhibitors to use pallet jacks or dollies on campus, you are allowed a two-wheeled cart to haul in the final essentials. Be sure to check out the Exhibitor Service Manual for more details at semashow.com/esm.

Once your freight has been sent and accepted into Freeman's advance warehouse, you can rest easier until it's time to fly out and oversee your booth assembly. While you might be tempted to arrive on Monday before Show opening, we strongly suggest giving yourself an extra day for any unforeseen issues.

"Arriving early provides more time to troubleshoot any setup issues or tweak booth layout and ensure everything is ready for Show opening day," says Tompkins.

Coming into Vegas a day earlier than planned will be worth the cost of an extra hotel night. It's important to give yourself ample time to conduct your setup, especially if you are new to the LVCC or exhibiting at SEMA. You'll be able to create a less stressful experience for yourself and avoid any issues on time.

IS EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE READY?

As you get closer to the Show, you'll want to make sure all your travel affairs and lodging are in order. And if you haven't booked your hotel, go no further than semashow.com for the best discounts we've secured by partnering with onPeak, our official hotel provider, especially if you decide to start your Las Vegas adventure a day early. And avoid any check-in setbacks by calling and verifying your reservations a few days in advance.

Research restaurants that fit your budget while also being suitable for taking clients out to. Las Vegas is renowned for its extensive culinary selection, offering a diverse range of options with varying price points. SEMA Week is a busy time for the city, so if you wish to take the team or possible leads to dinner after Show hours, look into where you want to dine and have reservations set in advance.

SEMA Show exhibitor meeting discussion

Have meetings with your staff to ensure everyone is up to speed on product talking points and goals for the week.

 

Lastly, ensure your SEMA team is in sync regarding business goals and company talking points. Exhibiting companies will achieve the best returns when everyone delivers the same company message. Encourage daily huddles where everyone can discuss how the day went, whether those business goals are being met and how to improve for each subsequent day.

If you want to give your booth more horsepower at a discounted price, register any additional staff before October 30. Every exhibiting company gets a certain allotment of badges based on booth size, but they can purchase more should they feel additional personnel would help achieve a better ROI.

Every team member who is adequately trained on the talking points you want to focus on, can communicate sharply and gather leads is another valuable asset in your quiver. If you assess that your team could benefit from more staff at SEMA, register them before the advanced pricing ends on October 30.

EXHIBITORS TIP: SEMA Show Friday

In the past, we've seen some exhibitors lose a little steam when Friday rolls around. SEMA Show Friday is SEMA's way of bringing the consumer side of the aftermarket into the SEMA Show. Rather than let them pass by until another buyer or industry professional comes along, leverage the opportunity and connect with these end users to gain further insight into the consumer mindset.

Gattuso explains, "We've got an end-user element that comes to the Show on Friday. You can fight that or you can ask yourself the hard question: Does my company promote my product to consumers? And if the answer is yes, there's literally a focus group--this attendee base--that's coming by asking questions and becoming a prospect for you."

This attendee group might not be buying your product by the pallet, but you're putting a direct face to the company name they've been a fan of for years. If they've never heard of you, give them an interaction that leaves such a positive effect that they enthusiastically spread your company name within their social circles.

Tompkins and Gattuso have heard from attendees with non-buyer badges who have noted they sometimes do not receive the same level of attention that buyers get at SEMA. So break the trend and treat every attendee like they can take your company to the next level. "You never know who you're talking to. Invest the time that you can in every attendee you meet who's willing to give you their attention," asserts Tompkins.

Tompkins adds that if you do come across end users on Friday but don't sell directly to consumers, have a list of resellers you can point them to. Being able to refer them to a shop in the area or region they're from will demonstrate your preparation and willingness to help your customers. It won't go unnoticed.

SEMA Fest band rocking out on stage

This year, SEMA Fest will feature Queens of the Stone Age, The Black Crowes, and Neon Trees.

 

To take your Show immersion to the next level, consider attending SEMA Fest on Friday. The music festival is the closing act to SEMA Week--a perfect blend of live music and car activations to "celebrate the industry, community, and everything that makes car culture so special," said Gattuso. Tickets are still available (as of 9/25/25) on semafest.com.

SEMA Fest is more than a concert event--it's another opportunity to make meaningful connections and interact with end users and enthusiasts who will see your SEMA badge and view the brand as more than just a company looking at consumers like numbers on a spreadsheet. Show them you are a brand built by people passionate about the culture and the industry that drives it forward over good music and automotive performance. This is what SEMA is all about.

Thu, 09/25/2025 - 11:51

By Ashley Reyes

EGR USA

 

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) named EGR USA as the council's newest spotlight member. Get to know the company's story in the SEMA News interview with EGR USA's National Sales Director Pat Johnson below. 

SEMA News: Tell us the story of your shop. 

Pat Johnson: The family business started in 1973 in Australia and is now a worldwide, Tier-1 supplier for more than 23 OEM auto manufacturers and aftermarket sales in North America, Europe, Australia and more. 

SN: What was EGR USA's breakthrough moment? 

PJ: The introduction of the RollTrac retractable bed cover put EGR back on the map for manufacturing the highest quality products in the aftermarket and OEM space. 

SN: Tell us about your business now and the projects that you are working on. 

PJ: EGR worldwide continues to grow with new ventures in RollTrac on the OEM side, and is now covering the aftermarket with 29 applications. We're also adding interior products and expanding RollTrac offerings. 

SN: Tell us about a package/product that you are proud of. 

PJ: The RollTrac retractable bed cover is a high-quality, strong, watertight and secure cover that you can put on a truck without sacrificing functional bed space. The innovation and engineering put into this product improved on a category that has been a mainstay in the aftermarket for decades and brought it to the OEM market. 

SN: What advice do you have for young professionals contemplating a career in the automotive aftermarket? 

PJ: Bring a passion for products but also an attitude of helping people grow their business through aftermarket products. The relationships built in this industry last a lifetime. 

EGR USA products in truck bed

 


Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on PRO's social media, SEMA News and future PRO-member updates.  

Thu, 09/25/2025 - 11:46

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Show Student Program

 

With more than 700 automotive students expected at the 2025 SEMA Show, exhibiting companies have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to recruit, inspire and connect with passionate students looking to launch their automotive careers.

At the Student Program Industry Networking Breakfast, exhibitors will showcase their brand to hundreds of future professionals, share their mission and goals and build quality connections with the industry's next wave of talent. The breakfast will be held on November 6, from 8:00 a.m.-9:30 a.m. PST in the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall.

The breakfast is a cornerstone of the SEMA Show Student Program, giving students the chance to explore career paths while networking with peers, educators, and business leaders from across the country.

Participation is free, and the event simply requires one and a half hours from a company representative. No set-up time or marketing materials are required. Register your company at the button below or here.

REGISTER HERE button for SEMA Show Student Program Industry Networking Breakfast

Questions? Contact Joe Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs, at josee@sema.org.

Thu, 09/25/2025 - 11:28

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show Hotel Booking 2025


Although travel costs are trending upward, SEMA Showgoers can still find reliable discounts by booking through the official hotel block here.

SEMA and its official housing partner, onPeak, have negotiated the best possible rates, offering showgoers cost-saving benefits alongside a myriad of advantages, including fully flexible booking, potential hotel rewards points, and group reservations at the best hotels in Las Vegas, including 11 properties that cost less than $200 per nightnight. 

Save $$$, and book at these hotels that are available for less than $200 a night, including resort fees and taxes*:

  • Palace Station, $162
  • Rio Hotel & Casino, $166
  • Downtown Grand, $168
  • Plaza, $169
  • Circus Circus, $175
  • Excalibur, $179
  • Luxor, $182
  • Circa, $184
  • Golden Nugget, $185
  • Flamingo, $199
  • The Strat, $192

*As of publish date, September 25, 2025

SEMA Showgoers can only get the discounted rates when booking through the only official hotel provider, onPeak, here.

In addition, when you book in the official SEMA Show hotel block, not only do you benefit from cost-saving rates, exclusive amenities , and outstanding service, but you are also showing your support for the SEMA Show. The more rooms booked in the block, the more we can negotiate lower room rates and additional concessions, which enables the SEMA Show management team to meet the needs of attendees better.

Registration for the 2025 SEMA Show is now open online here.

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2025 SEMA Show.


For questions and SEMA Show registration assistance, call 508-743-8571, Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET, or email AAPEXSEMA@maritz.com.

Thu, 09/25/2025 - 11:12

By Ashley Reyes

TORA Trail Hero Networking Mixer

 

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is hosting a business networking mixer for truck and off-road professionals at TheTrail Hero event in Hurricane, Utah. Happening Thursday, October 2, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. MDT, the mixer will be held at MischiefMaker TV Garage (174 Old Hwy. 91, Unit 2, Hurricane, UT 84737). 

The mixer is a great opportunity for attendees to expand their professional network, learn about resources designed to advance their business and hear about TORA activities scheduled for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas. Attendees will also meet the TORA select committee, explore open volunteer roles and build relationships with leaders across the aftermarket. 

TORA membership is open to all SEMA member companies serving the truck and off-road aftermarket industry. If this sounds like your business, don't miss your chance to enjoy an evening of great company, meaningful connections, and engaging conversation. Light snacks and drinks will be provided. 

RSVP today. 

Thu, 09/25/2025 - 11:05

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Data logo on background


Admark Automotive, a leader in eCommerce solutions for the automotive aftermarket industry, is thrilled to announce its new partnership with SEMA Data, the industry's premier provider of product data for automotive aftermarket brands and retailers. This collaboration positions Admark Automotive as the preferred eCommerce platform for all SEMA Data members.

Solving a Major Industry Challenge

This partnership directly addresses a key challenge faced by many SEMA Data members: the need for a well-designed, dependable platform that can seamlessly integrate the extensive data provided by SEMA Data. By combining SEMA Data's comprehensive product information with Admark Automotive's robust and specialized eCommerce software, the partnership offers a streamlined and powerful solution tailored to the unique needs of the automotive aftermarket industry.

"We're excited to partner with SEMA Data and serve as the trusted eCommerce platform for their members," said George Gonzalez, CEO of Admark Automotive. "This collaboration underscores our commitment to helping automotive aftermarket businesses thrive by providing innovative solutions that simplify operations and drive success."

A Seamless, No-Hassle Ecommerce Solution

SEMA's data product cataloging is the backbone of organized, standardized, and searchable product information in the automotive aftermarket industry. Admark Automotive's platform is built to maximize the value of that work--eliminating the need for plugins, third-party apps, constant updates, or custom development. This solution provides SEMA Data members with a streamlined process to efficiently intake, manage, and publish SEMA Data across their digital storefronts.

Backed by a powerful eCommerce engine purpose-built for this market, Admark Automotive enhances workflow, improves sales management, and solves common operational pain points--so SEMA members can stay focused on growth, service, and success.

"At SEMA Data, our commitment to delivering value to our members is at the heart of everything we do," said Gigi Ho, SEMA Vice President of Technology, Data & Strategic Initiatives. "This partnership with Admark Automotive strengthens that mission by equipping our members with best-in-class tools and resources to thrive in today's increasingly competitive market."

ABOUT SEMA DATA

Part of the SEMA, SEMA Data is the leading provider of standardized product data for the automotive aftermarket industry, with more than 650 brands, a collective inventory of more than 4.5 million parts, and an active network for more than 4,750 resellers. With a mission to streamline the flow of information between manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, SEMA Data empowers businesses to operate more efficiently and effectively in the marketplace. For more information, visit semadata.org.

ABOUT ADMARK AUTOMOTIVE

Admark Automotive has been a trusted partner to the automotive aftermarket industry for over 25 years, providing eCommerce solutions that help manufacturers and retailers manage sales, improve workflow, and drive revenue. Known for its industry expertise and cutting-edge technology, Admark Automotive is committed to delivering tailored solutions that meet the unique demands of its clients.

Thu, 09/25/2025 - 09:08

By SEMA News Editors

Hemmings Announces Encore to Hemmings Motor Club Rally: The Driving Experience for Enthusiasts
HMC Rally


Hemmings Motor Club (HMC) is hosting a three-day, backroads driving event through California's central coast next month: the HMC Rally: Paso Robles, scheduled for October 24-26 in Paso Robles, California.

The three-day rally invites drivers to embark on a curated road trip through Central California's most scenic and spirited backroads, offering an opportunity to share the road--and passion for cars--with a like-minded community of collector car enthusiasts, organizers said.

Participants will depart from either the San Francisco Bay Area or northern Los Angeles County on Friday, October 24, for a 220-mile route through stunning backroads, arriving in Paso Robles for a hosted welcome reception. Saturday, October 25, features a 230-mile Central Coast loop, including a mid-route burger stop and an evening fireside chat with motorsports legend Brock Yates Jr. and Hemmings' own Mike Musto. The rally concludes Sunday morning, October 26, with a spirited 50-mile drive to the Pacific coast for a proper sendoff.

For more information, visit hmn.com/HMCRally.

 

Henkel Expands Flagship Manufacturing Facility in South Dakota
Henkel Brandon facility

 

Henkel--the Brandon, South Dakota-based provider of adhesives, sealants and functional coatings, and manufacturer of consumer brands including LOCTITE and BERGQUIST--announced the expansion of its North American flagship manufacturing facility in Brandon, South Dakota. With an investment of approximately $30 million and additional support from the state's government and economic development organizations, the site has nearly doubled in size, expanding from 35,000 to 70,000 sq. ft.

"This expansion marks a significant milestone in Henkel's journey to support the long-term growth of the EV and electronics markets with sustainable, high-performance solutions," said Bjoern Jackisch, senior vice president, Operations & Supply Chain, Henkel Adhesive Technologies. "Our investment in Brandon reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and strong partnerships--with our customers and the community. We are proud to strengthen our footprint in North America and contribute to the future of mobility."

The expansion includes the installation of additional mixers, enabling high-volume production of advanced thermal management and adhesive solutions. These technologies are essential for maintaining optimal operating temperatures and ensuring the long-term performance, safety and durability of automotive batteries and electronic components. The upgraded facility now has the capacity to produce thermal management materials at a robust scale, supporting the long-term growth of the EV and electronics market across North America, the company stated in a release.

Henkel's Brandon facility is the first in its North American Adhesive Technologies business to achieve LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, the most widely recognized green building rating system. The project is registered with the certification goal of LEED Silver®.

"This expansion is more than an investment in infrastructure – it's a testament to what is possible when industry, government and community come together with a shared vision," said Marcel Fleck, senior vice president, Automotive Components, Henkel Adhesive Technologies.

The Brandon facility, originally constructed in 2009, employs more than 100 staff members today.

For more information, visit henkel-northamerica.com.

 

Ford Racing Returns to the 2025 Rebelle Rally
Ford Racing logo

The Rebelle Rally has announced the return of Ford Motor Company as a Silver Partner for the third consecutive year. In addition, Ford will again field five factory teams taking on the 1,600-plus-mile course in the Ford Bronco Raptor and Ford Ranger Raptor:

2025 Ford Factory Teams

  • Team 131 – Karisa Haydon / Trista Smith
  • Team 132 – Bailey Campbell / Sedona Blinson
  • Team 150 – Shelby Hall / Rori Lewis
  • Team 188 – Laura Wanlass / Penny Dale
  • Team 199 – Melissa Clark / Kathryn Reinhardt

In addition to its factory teams, Ford is launching the inaugural Rebelle Rally Ford Grassroots Program in 2025, providing support for seven privateer teams competing in Ford vehicles. 

"Having Ford return as a partner means so much to us," said Rebelle Rally Founder and Director Emily Miller. "They continue to show up not only for the rally and our organization, but for their customers who take on this challenge. Their new Grassroots Program is an incredible extension of that support, giving privateer teams the opportunity to feel part of something bigger while still chasing their own adventure."

The event takes place in California and Nevada, consisting of nine days of competition across a wide variety of terrain, altitudes and temperatures, putting stock manufacturer vehicles to the ultimate test. Technical inspections will take place on October 8 in Mammoth Lakes, California, with the final finish scheduled for October 17. Follow the teams and learn more at rebellerally.com.

For more on Ford, visit ford.com.

 

ASE and AACF Announce New Partnership to Expand Support for ASE Certified Professionals
AACF ASE

 

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) have formed a new partnership designed to expand support for ASE Certified professionals and their families facing unexpected hardships.

The initiative, launched under the theme "Support Beyond Certification," reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the entire technician community--not only through professional excellence but also through personal resilience and security, according to organization representatives.

Since 1972, more than a quarter of a million professionals have earned ASE Certification, the industry's standard credential across automotive service, parts, collision, truck, school bus and transit bus segments. AACF complements ASE by serving as the industry's safety net since 1959--providing emergency financial assistance to individuals and families in the automotive aftermarket affected by illness, injury, natural disasters or other life-changing events.

"ASE is dedicated to ensuring that service professionals are recognized for their skills and commitment to excellence," said Jennifer Holland, assistant vice president of marketing, ASE. "Through this partnership with AACF, we're extending that support beyond the test—giving technicians and their families a trusted resource when life takes an unexpected turn."

"This partnership bridges the gap between professional recognition and personal support," said John Kairys, executive director, AACF. "Together with ASE, we are reinforcing to every technician that they are not only valued for their skills but cared for as individuals. This is what it means to truly support our aftermarket family."

The collaboration will include coordinated communications to ASE Certified professionals, raising awareness of AACF's services and resources. Joint initiatives will feature co-branded campaigns, social media outreach and integration of AACF information into ASE certification and recertification touchpoints. ASE will also join AACF in supporting key events during AAPEX/SEMA Show Week, further demonstrating the industry's united commitment to its workforce.

For more information, visit aftermarketcharity.org/asecares.

 

 

The AAM Group Launches N-Store TV PRO, Custom Branding for In-Store Video Platform

The AAM Group has launched N-Store TV PRO, an upgrade to its in-store video platform that gives local jobbers new customization options.
Already a proven sales tool, N-Store TV transforms any showroom into a nonstop product showcase by streaming high-quality videos from automotive brands directly to customers. The free version works with any Roku-enabled device, allowing jobbers to set up quickly and start selling.
The new PRO version introduces features that enable shops to take control of their showroom experience. Businesses can now display their own logos, create custom graphics and promote services or specials alongside supplier videos. The result is a professional, on-brand showroom that enhances credibility and helps drive more sales.
"Jobbers have been asking for a way to put their personal stamp on N-Store TV, and we're excited to deliver with PRO," said AAM Vice President of Operations David Ayers. "By giving shops the ability to brand their showroom experience, we're helping them stand out to customers and maximize every sales opportunity."
Headquartered in Piney Flats, Tennessee, The AAM Group manages product purchasing and marketing for distributors, jobbers and suppliers affiliated with four flagship retail marketing programs: Engine Pro, Parts Pro, Performance Corner and Total Truck Centers.
For more information, visit theaamgroup.com.

Thu, 09/25/2025 - 07:45

By Ashley Reyes

Best Engineered Vehicle

 

Engineers and builders featuring a vehicle at the 2025 SEMA Show have an incredible opportunity to gain recognition for their talents by submitting an entry for the Best Engineered Vehicle Award presented at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas. Nominations are open until Wednesday, October 29here and at the link below. 

NOMINATE HERE button for Best Engineered Vehicle Award SEMA Show 2025

Now in its third year, the award honors a featured vehicle at the 2025 SEMA Show that demonstrates exceptional engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or an aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond just physical appearance. It also aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle's design and engineering. 

In 2024, Blazin Rodz from Rancho Santa Magarita, California, won the Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award for its '70 Chevrolet Chevelle. The Chevelle--dubbed "Doughboy"--is powered by a twin-turbo Chevy-based big-block delivering more than 2,800 hp and built utilizing multiple 3D-based design and printing techniques. Featuring the aesthetics of a GT Cup car, the Chevelle was designed, manufactured and assembled in-house using 35 custom CNC and 3D-printed parts, including its bespoke metal widebody. 

Nominate Today  

To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video and description of the engineering content included in the build, as well as the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show. Entries are being accepted until Wednesday, October 29, at this link

The award winner will be announced at the 2025 SEMA Show on Thursday, November 6, in SEMA Central.

The Best Engineered Vehicle Award is one of several official honors presented at the SEMA Show each year. Other recognitions include the SEMA Industry Awards--highlighting Channel Partner of the Year, Content Creator of the Year, Gen-III Innovator of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year, Person of the Year and the Visionary 8--as well as the SEMA New Product Awards and SEMA Show Media's Choice Awards, plus Council- and Network-specific honors such as the PRO Manufacturer of the Year, SBN Woman of the Year, and Young Executive of the Year, among many others. Together, these programs showcase the innovators, leaders, and creative forces shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket, only in one place: the SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Tue, 09/23/2025 - 13:53
By SEMA News Editors
SEMA Show Badge Price Increase

 

Don't miss your LAST CHANCE to save on your 2025 SEMA Show badge. Right now, you can register for the SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, for just $75 and save on a must-have experience for any automotive professional, but prices will increase to $100 per badge (online or on-site) on September 27.

This week is also your final opportunity to skip the on-site registration lines and have your SEMA Show badge mailed directly to you (and your team) ahead of the show, saving you valuable time when you arrive at the Las Vegas Convention Center this November.

REGISTER HERE button SEMA Show registration September 2025 deadline

With more than 2,000 exhibitors, the SEMA Show continues to be the place where business gets done. From groundbreaking technology and next-generation tools and products to expert-led education and face-to-face networking, the Show offers everything automotive aftermarket professionals need to stay competitive in today's fast-changing landscape. It's where relationships are built, products are evaluated, strategies are sharpened and opportunities come to life.

Don't wait to secure your 2025 SEMA Show badge. Qualified individuals can register for their place at the Show right now at semashow.com/register for just $75

Below are seven reasons why you need to secure their registration (available online here and at the bottom of this article) for this year's SEMA Show:

  • Exhibitors: Discover the latest product and vehicle trends across dozens of product categories: Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road; Restyling & Car Care Accessories; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Business Services; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Racing & Performance; Hot Rod Alley; Restoration Marketplace; Collision Repair & Refinish; Tools & Equipment; Global Tire Expo--Powered by TIA and Wheels & Accessories; and First-Time and Featured Exhibitors.
  • New Products Showcase: Visit the New Products Showcase to discover thousands of the latest exhibitor products displayed in one location of the Las Vegas Convention Center. 
  • Education: SEMA Show Education is the single most crucial week of the year to power a professional development plan for your business and career. Through sessions and unique, immersive programs that explore the industry's most significant challenges and offer immediate takeaways, there is something for every automotive professional.
  • Networking: The SEMA Show is where connections are built--network with exhibitors, industry leaders and VIPs/celebrities from more than 140 countries and regions. Use the Show's mobile app to view lists of all events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances and speakers, including date, time, and location. In addition, this year's program includes SEMA Council & Networks receptions, happy hours and meetings--all designed to help you advance your business and grow your network. You'll also have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with others in the industry and build meaningful relationships that'll lead to real results and high-quality connections.
  • Show Features: The SEMA Show is teeming with the latest innovations and trends, showcased in several dedicated areas like the SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish; the SEMA FutureTech Studio; feature vehicle displays; the new ADAS Feature; the Collision Repair & Refinish Stage; the SEMA Show Art Walk, the new-for-2025 International Pavilion at the Westgate Las Vegas; heart-pounding outdoors activations including Optima Unleashed and the HorsePower Rodeo; and more to be announced.
  • Show Events: Unique events and activations, such as the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, the SEMA Industry Honors now at the iconic Fontainebleau, the iconic SEMA Cruise, vehicle demonstrations, and much more, will provide ample opportunities for the industry to unite.
  • And much more: Of course, attending the SEMA Show in Las Vegas is the best way to boost an automotive professional's business and career path, but be sure to make the most of your time in Vegas with ancillary events like after-hours networking and SEMA Fest, a celebration of motorsports, music and car culture. Note: Your SEMA Show badge does not provide access to SEMA Fest. 

Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $75 per person through September 27. After September 27, registration online or on-site will be $100. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register

Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

For more information about the 2025 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com. Sign up for updates on SEMA Fest at semafest.com.


This story was originally published on September 23, 2025.