Tue, 09/23/2025 - 07:10

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

CARB

 

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) will have new leadership, following the retirement of Chair Liane Randolph at the end of September. California Governor Gavin Newsom has appointed Lauren Sanchez, his senior advisor for climate, to take over CARB, effective October 1.

Before joining the Newsom administration, Sanchez advised the Biden administration's Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, held senior posts at CalEPA and CARB, and served as a climate negotiator at the U.S. Department of State.

"We look forward to working with Lauren Sanchez to ensure California remains a place where the aftermarket industry can innovate and grow. The automotive aftermarket thrives on creativity and engineering, and it's essential that state policies recognize the value of an industry that supports more than one million jobs, drives hundreds of billions in economic activity, and delivers real solutions for consumers," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "We're committed to working with CARB's new leadership to make sure innovation and industry go hand-in-hand with California's goals, and that regulations are not unnecessarily burdensome for small businesses."

Randolph, whose term was set to expire at the end of the year, guided CARB for four years, led the agency through a period of major regulatory change, including overseeing the adoption of the now-defunct Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation, which would have mandated 100% zero-emissions new-vehicle sales by 2035. SEMA, through relentless advocacy and litigation, led the efforts to halt ACC II, along with its counterpart, Advanced Clean Fleets, which would've installed onerous, precedent-setting electric-vehicle (EV) mandates for the work truck industry.

SEMA works closely with CARB to ensure aftermarket products meet clean-air standards through the issuance of Executive Orders (EOs), which certify parts as emissions compliant and legal for sale nationwide. The SEMA Garage facilities in Diamond Bar, California, and Plymouth, Michigan, provide members with advanced testing tools, emissions labs, and compliance expertise. Over the last decade, SEMA has assisted with half of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB, completing nearly 800 applications and investing more than $30 million to help members bring innovative, emissions-compliant products to market.

For more information, contact Christian Robinson, SEMA senior director of state government affairs, at christianr@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Tue, 09/23/2025 - 07:10

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

CARB

 

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) will have new leadership, following the retirement of Chair Liane Randolph at the end of September. California Governor Gavin Newsom has appointed Lauren Sanchez, his senior advisor for climate, to take over CARB, effective October 1.

Before joining the Newsom administration, Sanchez advised the Biden administration's Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, held senior posts at CalEPA and CARB, and served as a climate negotiator at the U.S. Department of State.

"We look forward to working with Lauren Sanchez to ensure California remains a place where the aftermarket industry can innovate and grow. The automotive aftermarket thrives on creativity and engineering, and it's essential that state policies recognize the value of an industry that supports more than one million jobs, drives hundreds of billions in economic activity, and delivers real solutions for consumers," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "We're committed to working with CARB's new leadership to make sure innovation and industry go hand-in-hand with California's goals, and that regulations are not unnecessarily burdensome for small businesses."

Randolph, whose term was set to expire at the end of the year, guided CARB for four years, led the agency through a period of major regulatory change, including overseeing the adoption of the now-defunct Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation, which would have mandated 100% zero-emissions new-vehicle sales by 2035. SEMA, through relentless advocacy and litigation, led the efforts to halt ACC II, along with its counterpart, Advanced Clean Fleets, which would've installed onerous, precedent-setting electric-vehicle (EV) mandates for the work truck industry.

SEMA works closely with CARB to ensure aftermarket products meet clean-air standards through the issuance of Executive Orders (EOs), which certify parts as emissions compliant and legal for sale nationwide. The SEMA Garage facilities in Diamond Bar, California, and Plymouth, Michigan, provide members with advanced testing tools, emissions labs, and compliance expertise. Over the last decade, SEMA has assisted with half of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB, completing nearly 800 applications and investing more than $30 million to help members bring innovative, emissions-compliant products to market.

For more information, contact Christian Robinson, SEMA senior director of state government affairs, at christianr@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Thu, 09/18/2025 - 16:27

By SEMA News Editors

Horsepower Rodeo

 

The ultimate fusion of motorsports and chaos is stampeding into Las Vegas as HorsePower Rodeo joins the high-octane lineup of live activations at the 2025 SEMA Show. Taking place November 4-7 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in the Diamond Lot, adjacent to the LVCC's West Hall, HorsePower Rodeo promises a full-throttle spectacle that celebrates the raw power, mechanical creativity and the unfiltered excitement of car culture.

Headlined by superstar automotive content creator Westen Champlin and professional smoke show driver Kyle Douglas, HorsePower Rodeo is a living, breathing showcase of everything that makes the aftermarket world roar. From drag racers to drifters, classic muscle to modern burnout monsters, this arena unites builders, drivers and fans from every corner of the scene.

"HorsePower Rodeo exemplifies the spirit of the aftermarket--bold, creative and unapologetically passionate," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "It's a strategic addition to our live programming that reflects the diversity and energy of the industry, while engaging a new generation of enthusiasts."

As part of the SEMA Show's expanded motorsports programming, HorsePower Rodeo joins a powerhouse lineup, including OPTIMA UnleashedNitro CircusHoonigan and the Globe of Death. These demos offer attendees a full sensory experience the moment they step onto the SEMA Show campus, bringing the innovations displayed inside the halls to life in thrilling, real-world action, creating more connections with buyers, media and influencers.

Horsepower Rodeo


"HorsePower Rodeo is the ultimate stage for the wild side of car culture," said Champlin. "We're here to deliver a high-octane experience SEMA Show attendees will be talking about long after the smoke clears." 

HorsePower Rodeo will run daily throughout the Show just outside of the truck, SUV, off-road and restyling exhibitor areas of West Hall, giving professionals and enthusiasts a front-row seat to the tire-shredding burnouts, high-speed drifts and raw horsepower that define the world of motorsports.

"We're focused on creating unforgettable moments for our attendees that showcase the passion, products, and people that drive the industry forward, and HorsePower Rodeo delivers exactly that," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "It's loud, it's wild, and it's the kind of experience that sticks with you long after the Show ends."

To learn more about the 2025 SEMA Show, see the event lineup and to register, visit semashow.com.

Thu, 09/18/2025 - 16:24

By SEMA News Editors

COBB Tuning

OBD Unlock for Gen 3 F-150 Raptor

COBB Tuning OBD Unlock for Gen 3 F-150 Raptor

Graphic provided by COBB Tuning

COBB Tuning has expanded Accessport support to include the '23 Ford F-150 Raptor and updated coverage for '21–'22 Gen 3 Raptors, now enabling OBD-based ECU unlock and gains of up to +55 hp and +65 lb.-ft. of torque with Stage 1 calibrations.

The handheld tuner includes preloaded Off The Shelf maps with space for up to 100 custom calibrations, a customizable multi-gauge display, simple data logging, and features such as dynamic pedal control, valet mode and tire-size adjustment. Users can also read and clear diagnostic codes. 

cobbtuning.com

 

Wilwood Disc Brakes

Rear TX6R Big-Brake Kits for Late-Model GM 2500 Truck

Wilwood Disc Brakes Rear TX6R Big Brake Kits for Late Model GM 2500 Truck

Wilwood has added a new TX6R Tactical Xtreme rear big-brake kit option to complement the existing front TX6-DM, direct-spindle-mount performance brake kits on '20-'24 GM 2500 trucks. Upgrading late-model GM HD 2500 trucks from smaller OE cast iron calipers and rotors to Wilwood six piston radial mount calipers and larger rotors is designed to provide increased brake torque, thermal capacity and driving confidence for heavy-duty highway use, hauling, towing, off-road use and mountain driving.

The stress-flow forged aluminum TX6R caliper design is designed to be identical to those used on tactical armored vehicles weighing up to 14,000 lbs. and clamp down on Spec37 E-coated GTB slotted, iron alloy 16.00x1.38-in. military-grade rotors with 60 curved vanes for more efficient cooling. An aluminum hat accommodates the factory parking brake, and the complete kit remains compatible with the OE master cylinder and ABS system. Calipers are equipped with BP-Q ceramic-based dual-sport brake pads and are available in gloss red or black powder coat, or a wide variety of other color options (additional charges apply).

wilwood.com


Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

Thu, 09/18/2025 - 13:12

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Tariffs

 

The United States tariff landscape continues its steady evolution under the Trump Administration. Here are the latest developments, including details on specialty-equipment-industry impacts of trade agreements with Japan and the United Kingdom, as well as the latest opening of the Section 232 steel and aluminum tariff inclusions process

Commerce Tariff Inclusion Process for Steel and Aluminum Derivative Items 

The U.S. Department of Commerce on September 15 opened the process for the next round of inclusions under the steel and aluminum Section 232 tariffs, which will close on September 29, 2025. Companies that import products containing any amount of steel or aluminum and that are not currently subject to the steel and aluminum tariffs should monitor the process. 

  • The process is not an exclusion mechanism. Rather, it is a means to expand tariff coverage, which could have direct impacts on specialty aftermarket parts and components that contain derivative steel or aluminum elements, such as brackets, fittings or heat exchangers. If those derivative products are subject to the 50% steel and aluminum tariffs, which are applied on the percentage of steel and aluminum that comprises the product, costs could rise significantly. However, it's important to note that products covered by automotive tariffs aren't subject to 232 tariffs. Monitoring submissions during this window and participating in the public comment process may be important steps to protect supply chains. 

Following this two-week submission window, during which interested parties can request additions to products covered by the tariffs, Commerce will publish the requests and allow public comment for 14 days (expected to take place between September 30 and October 14).  

  • Click here to learn more about how the Commerce Department is allowing parties to request that products containing steel and aluminum can be added to the list of derivative articles subject to the tariffs.  

During the final step of the process, Commerce will review all submissions and comments before determining whether any articles should be added to the list of derivative articles. Commerce has 60 days from the submission of the requests to decide on derivative items whose steel and aluminum content will be subject to tariffs.  

The Commerce Department previously added 407 tariff subheadings to the list of derivative articles subject to the tariffs in August. 

  • Click here to see  SEMA's recent article on which products were included. 

Increased Market Access to Japan 

The U.S.-Japan trade agreement, concluded this summer and implemented earlier this month, makes notable changes for autos and auto parts. Under the deal, tariffs on Japanese autos and parts are being reduced from 25%, to 15%. The reduction took effect within a week of the executive order's publication and applies retroactively to August 7, meaning importers may be eligible for refunds on qualifying shipments.  

In addition to the rate change, the agreement establishes a reciprocal tariff framework in which Japanese imports are generally subject to a 15% duty unless their baseline tariff rate is already at or above that level. Japan committed to a $550 billion investment program across strategic United States sectors and agreed to regulatory adjustments, including recognition of United States safety standards for vehicles. Recognizing American safety standards is a huge step forward in the industry. For decades, Japanese safety standards were more stringent than some of its international trading partners, so the agreement with the United States marks a seminal moment in international trade. Now, American autos--and by proxy aftermarket performance parts--will have access to a new market with high demand.  

  • For aftermarket businesses, this means Japan-sourced components are now more competitive in American markets, though duties remain in place.  

Reciprocal Trade with the United Kingdom 

A parallel arrangement with the United Kingdom (U.K.), known as the Economic Prosperity Deal, also reshapes trade flows. U.K.-manufactured vehicles exported to the United States now face a reduced tariff of 10% (down from 27.5%) for up to 100,000 vehicles annually. Parts produced in the U.K. for use in these vehicles benefit from the same 10% tariff.  

  • For the aftermarket, this provides a measure of relief. Steel and aluminum remain a sticking point: while U.K. exports are excluded from the recent escalation of Section 232 tariffs to 50%, they remain subject to the longstanding 25% rate. Aftermarket businesses sourcing components or raw materials from the U.K. will need to keep a close watch on quota thresholds and the outcome of ongoing steel and aluminum discussions. 

Looking Ahead 

Although the outlines of these trade deals are now clear, various unresolved issues linger. The implementation details of the Japan agreement, including refund procedures through U.S. Customs and Border Protection, are still being clarified. The U.K. agreement hinges on the 100,000-vehicle quota, meaning costs could rise once the threshold is exceeded.  

  • The inclusions process under Section 232 introduces a new element of uncertainty as stakeholders petition to add products to the tariff scope. For the specialty automotive aftermarket, the practical implications will come down to classification, sourcing and documentation. Companies and importers should review their inventory to determine which components are affected, ensure recordkeeping is strong enough to take advantage of lower duty rates or refunds and consider long-term supply chain realignment. 

Questions? Contact Juan Mejia, SEMA senior manager for federal government affairs, at juanm@sema.org

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Thu, 09/18/2025 - 13:12

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Tariffs

 

The United States tariff landscape continues its steady evolution under the Trump Administration. Here are the latest developments, including details on specialty-equipment-industry impacts of trade agreements with Japan and the United Kingdom, as well as the latest opening of the Section 232 steel and aluminum tariff inclusions process

Commerce Tariff Inclusion Process for Steel and Aluminum Derivative Items 

The U.S. Department of Commerce on September 15 opened the process for the next round of inclusions under the steel and aluminum Section 232 tariffs, which will close on September 29, 2025. Companies that import products containing any amount of steel or aluminum and that are not currently subject to the steel and aluminum tariffs should monitor the process. 

  • The process is not an exclusion mechanism. Rather, it is a means to expand tariff coverage, which could have direct impacts on specialty aftermarket parts and components that contain derivative steel or aluminum elements, such as brackets, fittings or heat exchangers. If those derivative products are subject to the 50% steel and aluminum tariffs, which are applied on the percentage of steel and aluminum that comprises the product, costs could rise significantly. However, it's important to note that products covered by automotive tariffs aren't subject to 232 tariffs. Monitoring submissions during this window and participating in the public comment process may be important steps to protect supply chains. 

Following this two-week submission window, during which interested parties can request additions to products covered by the tariffs, Commerce will publish the requests and allow public comment for 14 days (expected to take place between September 30 and October 14).  

  • Click here to learn more about how the Commerce Department is allowing parties to request that products containing steel and aluminum can be added to the list of derivative articles subject to the tariffs.  

During the final step of the process, Commerce will review all submissions and comments before determining whether any articles should be added to the list of derivative articles. Commerce has 60 days from the submission of the requests to decide on derivative items whose steel and aluminum content will be subject to tariffs.  

The Commerce Department previously added 407 tariff subheadings to the list of derivative articles subject to the tariffs in August. 

  • Click here to see  SEMA's recent article on which products were included. 

Increased Market Access to Japan 

The U.S.-Japan trade agreement, concluded this summer and implemented earlier this month, makes notable changes for autos and auto parts. Under the deal, tariffs on Japanese autos and parts are being reduced from 25%, to 15%. The reduction took effect within a week of the executive order's publication and applies retroactively to August 7, meaning importers may be eligible for refunds on qualifying shipments.  

In addition to the rate change, the agreement establishes a reciprocal tariff framework in which Japanese imports are generally subject to a 15% duty unless their baseline tariff rate is already at or above that level. Japan committed to a $550 billion investment program across strategic United States sectors and agreed to regulatory adjustments, including recognition of United States safety standards for vehicles. Recognizing American safety standards is a huge step forward in the industry. For decades, Japanese safety standards were more stringent than some of its international trading partners, so the agreement with the United States marks a seminal moment in international trade. Now, American autos--and by proxy aftermarket performance parts--will have access to a new market with high demand.  

  • For aftermarket businesses, this means Japan-sourced components are now more competitive in American markets, though duties remain in place.  

Reciprocal Trade with the United Kingdom 

A parallel arrangement with the United Kingdom (U.K.), known as the Economic Prosperity Deal, also reshapes trade flows. U.K.-manufactured vehicles exported to the United States now face a reduced tariff of 10% (down from 27.5%) for up to 100,000 vehicles annually. Parts produced in the U.K. for use in these vehicles benefit from the same 10% tariff.  

  • For the aftermarket, this provides a measure of relief. Steel and aluminum remain a sticking point: while U.K. exports are excluded from the recent escalation of Section 232 tariffs to 50%, they remain subject to the longstanding 25% rate. Aftermarket businesses sourcing components or raw materials from the U.K. will need to keep a close watch on quota thresholds and the outcome of ongoing steel and aluminum discussions. 

Looking Ahead 

Although the outlines of these trade deals are now clear, various unresolved issues linger. The implementation details of the Japan agreement, including refund procedures through U.S. Customs and Border Protection, are still being clarified. The U.K. agreement hinges on the 100,000-vehicle quota, meaning costs could rise once the threshold is exceeded.  

  • The inclusions process under Section 232 introduces a new element of uncertainty as stakeholders petition to add products to the tariff scope. For the specialty automotive aftermarket, the practical implications will come down to classification, sourcing and documentation. Companies and importers should review their inventory to determine which components are affected, ensure recordkeeping is strong enough to take advantage of lower duty rates or refunds and consider long-term supply chain realignment. 

Questions? Contact Juan Mejia, SEMA senior manager for federal government affairs, at juanm@sema.org

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Thu, 09/18/2025 - 12:33

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Spy photographers have once again caught an upcoming vehicle undergoing testing, giving an early glimpse at what's to come before its official debut.

Porsche 911 to Get Slantnose Variant
Porsche 911 Slantnose

 

Porsche 911 Falchbau--German for "Slantnose"--refers to extremely rare and sought-after Porsche models with a flat-front design. The original flat-nose 911 was a rare special option that the German manufacturer offered in the '80s as a conversion variant for the flagship 911 Turbo. Its aerodynamic design with pop-up headlights was based on the 935 racing model, which dominated endurance racing for years.

In total, just more than 900 vehicles were modified at the factory, with a few subsequent conversions. In 2019, Porsche presented its last flat-body model, the 935, which was limited to 77 units and intended for track-use only.

Porsche 911 Slantnose

 

But now, the Slantnose models seem to be back on the menu, as Porsche has registered the model names 'Flachbau' and 'Flachbau RS' with the European Patent Office. The registrations were made on May 14 and refer to class 12, which authorises use on vehicles and vehicle parts.

Recently, SEMA News sources stationed at the German Nürburgring caught a prototype that appears to be a test mule for such a 911 Slantnose, likely in RS guise. It's based around the 991 platform, but will likely morph into a 992.2 once getting closer to launch, according to insiders.

Extremely limited special editions of the 911 are conceivable under the Flachbau/Flachbau RS title. Porsche had already announced that it would be producing further small series of the classic model for collectors. The 911 Spirit 70 was recently unveiled as the third of four planned 911 special models in the limited edition 'Porsche Heritage Design' series. Will the Slantnose version be number four?

Porsche 911 Slantnose

 

Audi Prepares Next-Generation RS6 Avant
Audi RS6 Avant

 

Audi is preparing a new generation of its high-performance wagon, the RS6 Avant, to compete directly with the BMW M5 Touring, according to insiders.

Prototypes of the upcoming RS6 Avant have been spotted multiple times in recent months and were recently seen again at the Nürburgring and on surrounding roads. Wrapped in full camouflage, the vehicle caught appears to be close to production, featuring final-spec lighting units and front and rear bumpers.

Design changes are expected to be subtle, with the RS6 Avant retaining the aggressive styling typical of Audi Sport models, including the dual oval exhaust outlets. Underneath, the chassis has been upgraded compared with the standard new-generation A6, which recently entered production in Neckarsulm, Germany, sharing its platform with the third-generation Q5.

Audi RS6 Avant

 

Audi has also confirmed that the model will continue to be called the RS6 Avant, despite earlier reports suggesting it could be renamed the RS7 Avant. The company considered introducing a new naming convention – odd numbers for internal-combustion models and even numbers for electric vehicles – but ultimately abandoned the plan following customer confusion. The recently launched A5, which replaced the A4 (B9), remains the only exception.

The current RS6 Avant Performance, sold as a '26 model, produces 621 hp from a 4.0L twin-turbo V8. The next-generation RS6 Avant is expected to adopt a plug-in hybrid V6 powertrain, with combined output projected to exceed 725 hp.

The new Audi RS6 Avant is expected to debut as a '27 model.

Audi RS6 Avant

 

Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV Facelift Coming for 2026
Mercedes-Benz EQS

 

The Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV is getting a mid-cycle update that promises more than just cosmetic tweaks, according to SEMA News sources.

Spotted near the German manufacturer's development center, the camouflaged prototype reveals a reworked grille and hints at redesigned side intakes on the bumper, likely to improve front-brake cooling. The most noticeable change is a fresh set of headlights featuring three-pointed-star daytime running lights.

At the rear, the SUV still carries over its current taillights, but with a 2026 debut for the '27 model year, updated light clusters seem likely. The reshaped rear bumper, on the other hand, is already confirmed.

Inside, the big story will be the adoption of MB.OS, Mercedes-Benz’s next-generation infotainment platform. First launched on the all-new CLA Sedan and Shooting Brake, MB.OS builds on the system in the '24 E-Class, using a chip-to-cloud architecture that expands automated driving capabilities.

Mercedes-Benz EQS

 

Underneath, rumors suggest a shift to the latest eATS 2.0 electric drive units--also known as MB.EDU 2.0. This highly integrated setup, used in the CLA, places a motor on the rear axle paired with a two-speed gearbox, improving both acceleration and efficiency compared with single-speed designs. Audi and Porsche already use similar systems in the e-tron GT and Taycan.

The facelifted EQS SUV is also expected to adopt CLA-derived battery technology, sources said, moving to an 800-volt architecture. Beyond enabling faster DC charging, 800 volts reduces resistive losses, improves efficiency and allows thinner, lighter cabling thanks to lower current demands.

Silicon carbide inverters are also on the table, offering better thermal performance, higher power density and quicker charging than traditional silicon-based units. Mercedes may even rebrand its EVA2 platform as EVA2M, with the EQE lineup benefiting from the same upgrades.

Mercedes-Benz EQS

 

Thu, 09/18/2025 - 12:17

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Industry Honors Thursday Nov 6 2025 FontaineBleau


One night. One stage. The biggest names in the automotive aftermarket--only at the 2025 SEMA Industry Honors event in Las Vegas.

On Thursday, November 6, the 2025 SEMA Industry Honors takes over the BleauLive Theater at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas for an unforgettable night celebrating the people and brands driving the industry forward. From Content Creator of the Year to Person of the Year and even more on-stage honors, this event is where SEMA's spotlight shines brightest.

Kick off the evening alongside industry titans, game-changers and visionaries with a cocktail reception at 6:00 p.m. PST, take in the awards ceremony at 7:00 p.m. PST, then keep the celebration going at an exclusive after-party with live music, hors d'oeuvres and an open bar for ticketed guests.

Tickets are just $30 until Saturday, September 27. After that, they jump to $50. Seats are limited, so reserve your seat today.

Visit SEMAShow.com/Honors or click below to learn more and purchase tickets.

Reserve Your Seat for SEMA Industry Honors Thursday Nov 6 2025 FontaineBleau

2025 SEMA Industry Honors Details:

  • BleauLive Theater, Fontainebleau Las Vegas
  • Thursday, November 6 
  • 6:00 p.m. PST Reception | 7:00 p.m. PST Awards Ceremony 
  • Tickets: $30 before September 27 | $50 after; includes hors d'oeuvres and access to open bar.
Thu, 09/18/2025 - 11:34

By SEMA News Editors

Products for Project Vehicles

 

Exhibitors of the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, are offering products, parts and services for builders working on vehicles set for display at the SEMA Show this year.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list is designed for builders looking to collaborate and seek product offers straight from confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors.

Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly with the provided contact information. All product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder, with each project vehicle on display at the SEMA Show required to be supported by a current 2025 SEMA Show exhibitor.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2025 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

Qualified builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2025 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, as it is updated when submissions come in.


Note: Submissions appear on a first-come, first-served basis. The Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used by exhibitors to participate in the program; email submissions will not be included in the list. Participation in the list does not guarantee product or vehicle placement at the 2025 SEMA Show. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to confirm the builder is affiliated with and working on a vehicle that will be on display at the SEMA Show. For more information about the list, contact Laura Pitts at projectvehicles@sema.org.

Thu, 09/18/2025 - 08:46

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA MPMC Awards

 

The SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) is now accepting nominations for its Hall of Fame and Robert E. Petersen Media Award--two of the most prestigious honors in aftermarket motorsports. These awards recognize the individuals whose leadership, innovation and influence have accelerated the future of the motorsports industry. Nominate here.  

MPMC Hall of Fame 

Presented at the PRI Show in Indianapolis, December 11-13, the Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made a lasting impact on motorsports parts manufacturing and/or the MPMC. Nominees should demonstrate unparalleled leadership and achievement, with a career spanning more than 10 years in the industry. Eligible nominees must be current or past employees of an MPMC member company and have made contributions to the growth and advancement of the motorsports parts market. 

Robert E. Petersen Media Award 

Presented at the MPMC Media Trade Conference, in Anaheim, California, in January 2026, the Robert E. Petersen Media Award honors a member of the media--whether in print, online or broadcast--who has made a significant contribution to the motorsports industry. Honorees must be active journalists whose published work positively supports the industry while showcasing their ongoing commitment to telling the stories that move motorsports forward.  

Why Your Nomination Matters 

Submitting a nomination gives leaders and storytellers in the motorsports industry an opportunity to gain the recognition they deserve. By honoring their contributions, MPMC can highlight the great work being done by its members, inspire others to follow in their footsteps and celebrate the enthusiasm and passion that drives the motorsports community. 

Don't miss this chance to shine a light on a deserving member. Nominate here today or click below.

NOMINATE HERE button for SEMA MPMC awards 2025