From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

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

 

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

 

In a stunning betrayal of the bipartisan group of lawmakers who overwhelmingly passed Wisconsin's right-to-race legislation, Gov. Tony Evers vetoed AB 880, legislation aimed at protecting long-standing race tracks from nuisance lawsuits brought by new neighbors and developers.

 

Notably, the bill had no registered opposition in the state Assembly and Senate. But in defending his veto, Gov. Evers, who previously shared his fond memories of growing up near a Wisconsin racetrack, stated his belief that the bill would create "unfair and unnecessary hurdles for people pursuing legal avenues to vindicate the use and enjoyment of their land," and that he sought to establish Wisconsin as a state with an "open courthouse door."

 

BACKGROUND

 

AB 880 advanced through the Wisconsin State Legislature with strong support from lawmakers who recognize the importance of small businesses and the cultural and economic role motorsports plays across Wisconsin. The bill furthermore sought to reaffirm the important role of motorsports on the state's economy.

 

According to PRI's economic impact data, Wisconsin's motorsports industry is a major economic driver, contributing:

• $2.46 billion in total economic impact
• 10,601 jobs
• $697.92 million in wages and benefits
• $271.60 million in tax revenue

 

For decades, racetracks across the state have served as gathering places for working families, while supporting local economies, tourism and small businesses. Without protections like those included in AB 880, these facilities remain vulnerable to nuisance-based legal challenges that can threaten their long-term stability.

 

NEXT STEPS

 

While the veto is a setback, it also underscores the importance of continued engagement and advocacy. The coalition built in Wisconsin, including racetracks, manufacturers, tourism groups, and small business leaders, has demonstrated strong alignment and momentum.

 

Since launching this effort in Wisconsin, SEMA and PRI have led a comprehensive and coordinated campaign. This has included hosting two advocacy days at the State Capitol, meeting with dozens of lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, engaging nearly 100 industry stakeholders, working through key amendments, testifying in multiple hearings, coordinating with the governor's office, and submitting thousands of letters and signatures in support of the bill.

 

SEMA and PRI will continue working alongside industry partners to advance Right-to-Race protections and ensure that racetracks can operate with certainty and stability.

 

The checkered flag hasn't waved. Our coalition is stronger than ever, and we are committed to getting this across the finish line.

 

For more information, contact SEMA and PRI Director of Government Affairs for Racing Tierra Hubbard at tierrah@sema.org.

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Railway FX

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Booking your 2026 SEMA Show hotel just got more rewarding. Attendees who reserve through the SEMA Show's official housing provider, onPeak, can earn hotel loyalty points on their stay––turning every night in Las Vegas into future travel perks––while still unlocking exclusive discounted rates, flexible booking options and access to top properties. 

 

Hotel reservations for the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas, can be made online at semashow.com/hotel.

 

 

See the top five benefits of booking your 2026 SEMA Show hotel through our only official partner, onPeak, below:

 

Deep Value and Discounts 

SEMA negotiates the lowest available nightly rates--often below hotel rack rates. Skip the hours of searching online and book directly through onPeak--but don't wait! Visit semashow.com/hotel as early as possible to lock in the best available rates. 

 

Even better, organizers will price-match if you find a lower rate--so there's no downside to booking within the official SEMA Show hotel block.

 

Earn Hotel Rewards Points 

Hotel rewards points add up quickly, especially during trade show travel. Reservations made through official SEMA Show hotels are eligible for loyalty programs. Simply enter your rewards number when booking, and you're set.

 

For example, SEMA Showgoers who are already Marriott Bonvoy members (a free program) can earn points by following these steps:

• Book your SEMA Show hotel through onPeak, the official housing provider. Select a Marriott or MGM property.
• Enter your unique Marriott Bonvoy number in the "Hotel Rewards" section upon check-out. 
• IMPORTANT: Provide your Marriott Bonvoy number again at the front desk during check-in.

 

Fully Flexible Booking

Plans change. There are no change fees and no full prepayment required at the time of booking--unlike many other booking channels. You can modify or cancel your reservation without penalty through October 8.

 

Easy Group Bookings 

Book your entire group--large or small--in real time with immediate confirmations. Reserve rooms now and assign guests later.

 

You can select rooms based on preferred travel dates and manage payments for the full group or assign individual payment methods.

 

A Sustainable Hotel Stay 

The official SEMA Show hotel provider, onPeak, offers resources to support more sustainable travel. View hotel sustainability plans at onpeak.com/sustainability and explore additional travel tips at blog.onpeak.com.

 

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 in Spring 2026; to sign up for notifications, visit here. For more information, visit semashow.com. 

 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

Mark your calendars for impact: the SEMA California Rally is back for 2026! Join us on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, when SEMA-member companies from across the Golden State head to Sacramento for a day focused on advocacy and innovation.

 

This is more than just another event; it's an opportunity to shine a bright spotlight on the legislative and policy issues facing the automotive aftermarket industry. From reforms to CARB's Executive Order process, to Leno's Law, to promoting important manufacturing incentives, the SEMA California Rally is where our collective voice becomes action.
 

This year's Rally is open to all California-based SEMA-member companies, and registration is now live. Be sure to reserve your spot and review all the important details, including lodging information.
 

By attending the SEMA California Rally, you're doing more than participating in an event; you're joining a movement committed to the growth and innovation of our industry.
 

Don't miss this opportunity. Join us in Sacramento on Wednesday, June 3, and let's drive change together.
 

For more information, contact SEMA Senior Manager of State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

Mark your calendars for impact: the SEMA California Rally is back for 2026! Join us on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, when SEMA-member companies from across the Golden State head to Sacramento for a day focused on advocacy and innovation.

 

This is more than just another event; it's an opportunity to shine a bright spotlight on the legislative and policy issues facing the automotive aftermarket industry. From reforms to CARB's Executive Order process, to Leno's Law, to promoting important manufacturing incentives, the SEMA California Rally is where our collective voice becomes action.
 

This year's Rally is open to all California-based SEMA-member companies, and registration is now live. Be sure to reserve your spot and review all the important details, including lodging information.
 

By attending the SEMA California Rally, you're doing more than participating in an event; you're joining a movement committed to the growth and innovation of our industry.
 

Don't miss this opportunity. Join us in Sacramento on Wednesday, June 3, and let's drive change together.
 

For more information, contact SEMA Senior Manager of State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

 

SEMA Fest, which has featured chart-topping headliners Imagine Dragons, Cage the Elephant, Sublime and Queens of the Stone Age, will return to Las Vegas on Friday, November 6, for an adrenaline-filled night of motorsports, music and car culture.
 

Tickets for this unique and unforgettable night on the SEMA Show campus will be offered to the industry at the lowest possible price before the 2026 SEMA Fest lineup is announced.

 

When the 2026 SEMA Show registration opens on May 4th, SEMA Fest tickets will also be available for purchase through the registration portal for qualified attendees securing a SEMA Show badge.
 

Your non-industry members can also snag their own SEMA Fest tickets on SEMAFest.com, in addition to passes for the one-day-only "SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public," a bucket-list experience for any automotive enthusiast.
 

You won't want to miss out on this epic night filled with heart-pounding music and hair-raising motorsports activations.
 

Visit SEMAFest.com for more information and to get updates straight to your inbox. Questions? Want to get involved? Contact info@semafest.com.

 

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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 Laura Pitts 

 

SEMA Garage's new partnership with BigRep America is bringing large-format 3D printing capabilities to members at the Diamond Bar, California, facility.  

 

The latest news from SEMA Garage is big––by design. A new partnership with BigRep America is bringing large-format 3D printing capabilities to members at the Diamond Bar, California, facility.  

 

The centerpiece of the partnership at the Diamond Bar facility is the BigRep STUDIO. The purpose-built 3D printer can produce full-scale parts in one go––including components as large as wheels, fender flares or even fenders––using a range of materials, including engineering-grade thermoplastics suitable for some functional applications. 

 

For SEMA members developing new products, the addition opens the door to faster times, larger prototype parts and new possibilities during the product development process. 

 

Thinking Bigger With Large-Format Printing 

 

One of the most important advantages of the new system is its build envelope, which refers to the maximum 3D space a machine can fabricate within, defined by its length, width and height. 

 

For manufacturers, that lack of size limitation can directly influence design thinking. 

 

"The size you can create something limits the size you can imagine something. So, a large-format 3D printer allows our members to imagine physically larger, bigger and better solutions," said Jim Moore, vice president of OEM and product development for SEMA Garage. 

 

In short, the technology lets members literally think bigger about what they can design and build. 

 

(Left) BigRep's infill pattern for its large-format 3D printing projects. (Right) The BigRep STUDIO in the Diamond Bar, California, SEMA Garage facility.

 

The ability to print large parts in a single piece also removes a common hurdle in additive manufacturing. 

 

"We're oftentimes limited by the ability to make a large piece that doesn't require printing it in smaller components and then gluing them together. Accessing a machine that can produce large-scale items empowers our members to push the envelopes of their product development," said Moore. 

 

Faster Prototyping and Shorter Lead Times 

 

Beyond size capabilities, 3D printing brings another major advantage to the automotive aftermarket: speed. For businesses developing new aftermarket components, that speed can significantly reduce development timelines. 

 

"People are already using 3D printing on these components, but now they can really scale up the application with the new printer," Moore said. 

 

The types of parts that can be created using the BigRep STUDIO in the SEMA Garage California facility span a wide range of aftermarket applications.

 

From Intake Systems to Interior Panels & More 

 

The types of parts that can be created using the BigRep STUDIO in the California facility span a wide range of aftermarket applications. 

 

Examples include: 

• Air boxes 
• Brake pedal components
• Dashboards and interior trim 
• Ducting
• Exterior body panels 
• Intake manifolds 
• One-piece wheels 
• Virtually any intake component 

 

One particularly creative example currently being explored at SEMA Garage is a printed wheel used for suspension mock-ups and clearance testing. 

 

"Virtually any intake product," including intake manifolds, can be printed in this new BigRep STUDIO large-format 3D printer in Diamond Bar, California.

 

"We're attempting to print an entire one-piece wheel for suspension modification and mock-up, to check clearances inside wheel wells. The materials are strong enough to even mount a tire, creating new opportunities to speed product development," Moore said. 

 

Expanding Access to Advanced Manufacturing 

 

For smaller aftermarket companies in particular, access to the technology can be transformative. 

 

"It puts cutting-edge technology within reach," Moore said. "Ten years ago, 3D printing was considered exotic. And we were early on that curve and had a very expensive machine. And what we've seen is that over the last decade, the cost and access to that capability has come down so much that, for many companies today, this is just a fundamental part of their manufacturing process and R&D process." 

 

SEMA Garage officials encourage members to reach out with ideas and explore how large-format printing could support their product development projects. 

 

Through SEMA Garage, members can tap into the technology without having to invest in large-format equipment themselves. 

 

Looking Ahead: New Materials and Possible Detroit Expansion 

 

The partnership also allowed Moore to reflect on where additive manufacturing is headed next. 

 

"So when we look forward to what's next [in the automotive 3D printing realm], we see two camps: sheer build scale––the ability for these machines to create even larger components––as well as the materials that are being used to manufacture with," Moore said. "So, this can be advanced composites, carbon-fiber filaments, all the way to metallurgical additive manufacturing with materials such as Inconel, stainless steel, copper and other materials." 

 

Moore said these developments are shaping future plans for the SEMA Garage network. 

 

"We are looking right now at bringing metal 3D printing to Detroit in the future. We're in the process of working through partners on that front to bring that. If all goes to plan, we'll be able to address potentially both areas of innovation: with large format here in Diamond Bar and metal 3D printing in Detroit," Moore shared. 

 

Once added, this will allow SEMA members to prototype larger, heavier-duty components in Detroit. 

 

How Members Can Use the BigRep STUDIO in SoCal

 

SEMA Garage officials encourage members to reach out with ideas and explore how large-format printing could support their product development projects. 

 

"I think that this machine [at the SEMA Garage Diamond Bar facility] offers an opportunity both on being able to support our members through their R&D and prototyping,” said Moore. 

 

Yes, your brand's next product launch can go smoother, faster and on a larger scale thanks to SEMA Garage's expanded capabilities. 

 

"We're also looking to our members to help us showcase the capability and inspiration that these machines can bring," said Moore, and interested members can contact SEMA Garage directly at productdevelopment@sema.org. 

 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

 

Mercedes-AMG Developing GT Track Variant

 

Mercedes-AMG is about to release another variant of its GT, a car that's even more powerful than the GT 63 Pro. It might retain the 4.0L bi-turbo V8 but will definitely produce more than the already impressive 612 hp of the Pro. No name has been confirmed yet, so let's call the most extreme GT to date the "Track," a name already familiar from the '22 Mercedes-AMG GT Track Series.

 

This was a track-day highlight, limited to 55 units and not approved for road use. It was based on the GT Black Series of the time. It delivered 734 hp, weighed just 3,087 lbs. and featured race-ready specifications such as a sequential six-speed gearbox and adjustable racing suspension.

 

The "Track" spotted on and around the Nürburgring today could be a somewhat tamer, road-legal variant of the current GT, stripped to reduce weight as much as possible and equipped with race specifications. The most visible of these are, of course, the huge rear wing as well as deep skirts and winglets attached to the front bumper.

 

Volkswagen T-Roc R SUV Gets Sportier

 

Volkswagen will continue to offer a sporty SUV in its product range. The German brand is not compromising on maximum performance in certain models and the new generation of the T-Roc is no exception. A few months ago, the new version of the T-Roc R was officially confirmed with a prototype covered in special vinyl, which has now been removed for its first tests in real driving conditions after a period of testing hidden in a mule under the Golf R.
 

After initial shots during winter testing in Sweden, the T-Roc R has now reappeared on and around the German Nürburgring racetrack. Volkswagen has used a prototype painted white, which appears to have had its promotional vinyl removed and replaced with the usual wrap used by the manufacturer to conceal new styling features. The aggressiveness of the front end of the new Volkswagen T-Roc R is noticeable at first glance.

 

The larger, more angular air intakes flanking the central grille are clearly visible through the camouflage, as if trying to emerge, and this sportier design is even more evident in the lower body area. From the side view, you can clearly see that the front overhang will also be larger, making the new top-of-the-line T-Roc a few millimeters longer, given that the bumper is more prominent. Speaking of the side, the typical blue brake calipers of Volkswagen R models are present as well.
 

The alloy wheels are 19 in. in diameter and the rear stands out for its characteristic four exhaust pipes, which will once again feature the louder Akrapovič system option. The test vehicle of the new '27 Volkswagen T-Roc R also features the advanced "LED Matrix IQ.Light" lighting system, which incorporates illuminated manufacturer emblems.

 

The German company did not want to wait until the presentation, which should take place at the end of the year--although production and sales will be delayed until 2027--to confirm the new engine that will be located just above the front axle. It will once again be a 2.0L TSI four-cylinder engine, almost the same as the current Golf R, with 333 hp of maximum power. The key difference is that the sport SUV will have a 48-volt MHEV system to reduce fuel consumption and emissions while providing a temporary power boost.
 

Fun aboard the new T-Roc R, whose interior will not change much compared to the R-Line trim, is ensured thanks to the seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive with torque vectoring and even a drift mode for more experienced drivers.

By Ashley Reyes

 

If you're looking to make a meaningful impact beyond your business and help shape the future of your market segment, now is the time to step forward. The deadline to apply for a SEMA council or network select committee is Friday, April 17.
 

SEMA council and network select committee volunteers play a vital role in advancing the association's mission and strengthening the automotive aftermarket. Members who serve bring first-hand industry insight and expertise that help SEMA staff develop programs, resources and opportunities that support career development and business growth across the association's nine specialized communities.
 

Serving on a select committee requires a commitment of approximately five to ten hours per month, while offering valuable opportunities for professional growth and industry engagement, including:
 

• Hands-on leadership experience within your aftermarket niche
• The opportunity to strengthen your market segment by helping develop impactful programs, events and member resources
• A platform to raise awareness about issues that matter most to your business
• Meaningful industry relationships and lasting friendships
• Insight into emerging trends and opportunities shaping the aftermarket

Applicants must be employed by a SEMA member company and willing to serve a two-year term. While planning skills and aftermarket experience are helpful, the most important qualification is a passion for supporting and advancing the industry.
 

Don't miss this opportunity to give back, grow your leadership skills, and help guide the future of your community.
 

Learn how you can make a difference and submit your application today at www.sema.org/volunteer.
 

SEMA Councils and Networks currently accepting applications include:
 

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN)
• Future Leaders Network (FLN)
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)
• Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC)
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)
• Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC)

By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings: 

 

SD Wheel

Videographer in Wrightstown, Wisconsin
 

SD Wheel is seeking a videographer to create, review and edit media and content that engages with a digital audience and supports the brand.

VIEW LISTING

 

 

Total Offroad

Regional Store Manager in Houston, Texas
 

Total Offroad is hiring a regional store manager to oversee multiple 4x4 and automotive aftermarket stores specializing in off-road and truck accessories, retail installs and fleet and dealer upfitting.

VIEW LISTING

 

 

ICON Vehicle Dynamics

Customer Service Representative in Riverside, California
 

The Customer Service Representative (CSR) plays a critical role in protecting the customer experience and supporting revenue serves as a key point of contact for dealers, distributors and end users who rely on ICON Vehicle Dynamics suspension and off-road products.

VIEW LISTING

 

Employers looking to join the SEMA Career Center can do so at semajobs.com/employers/register.

 

Feed Image Courtesy of Shutterstock | Yes I Shoot Models

By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Morgan Jacobs, art director at Kahn Media, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Jacobs through her interview with SEMA News below. 
 

SEMA News: How have you contributed to your company? 

Morgan Jacobs: I have an exciting and thoughtful creative direction. I am an asset to our team at Kahn Media but also to many clients that are SEMA members, as I help guide them and bring creative ideas to life. From SEMA booth designs to product packaging to sales catalogs, I'm a brand expert with attention to detail and provide clients with a creative edge.

SN: How have you shown leadership in the industry or business? 

MJ: I am always willing to put time and creative effort forth for all of our clients. I work across all teams in the business to deliver results.

SN: Tell us a success story that you can share about yourself.  

MJ: I helped with a complete creative reboot for Malco Automotive. I reimagined their brand, logo and packaging to take the legacy family business into the next chapter of their story and help define the future.

SN: How many years have you been in the industry? 

MJ: More than five years.  

SN: What quality do you admire most about yourself?  

MJ: I am very thoughtful and intentional both creatively and logistically.

 

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