By SEMA News Editors

Exhibiting at the SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, is no small feat. It takes initiative, careful planning and sometimes even a little imagination to make sure your brand makes the most of the Show.  

Luckily, SEMA Show organizers provide plenty of resources to make Show preparation easier and help your aftermarket business maximize the investment, like an upcoming live webinar designed to teach you everything you need to know to take full advantage of this year’s event.  

Set for Tuesday, September 16, at 10:00 a.m. PDT/1:00 p.m. EDT, the virtual 2025 SEMA Show Freeman Webinar (Register Here) will put you in front of with leading exhibition specialists and members of the SEMA Show team to guide you through all of the tools and resources--from cost-saving tips to the keys of lead retrieval--that are available to you and your brand.  

Led by Cassandra Cothron, exhibitor education manager for official SEMA Show partner Freeman, with support from the SEMA Show's own experts--this virtual event will explore:  

• Valuable resources and cost-saving tips.
• How to effectively highlight new products.
• Lead retrieval and customer management solutions.  
• Proven strategies to attract and engage more customers.  
• Expert answers to all your exhibit-related questions.  

If you're a SEMA Show exhibitor, you won't want to miss this information-packed presentation on Tuesday, September 16. Save your seat now!

Exhibitors should frequently check the complete list of deadlines for the 2025 SEMA Show using the Exhibitor Services Manual found at semashow.com/esm. The Manual is the one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show and contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including deadline and budget checklists.

Exhibitors can also lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

Have questions on exhibiting at the SEMA Show? Call us at 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, at 508-743-8571 or email AAPEXSEMA@maritz.com.

By Ashley Reyes

According to SEMA market research, 50% of today's vehicle accessorizers are under the age of 40, and their habits are reshaping how automotive content is consumed and shared, fueling a dynamic shift in the media landscape. This transformation opens doors for publishers, content creators, event organizers and builders/racers to engage this audience through innovative platforms, interactive experiences and authentic storytelling that speaks their language.

SEMA members are invited to join the SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) General Membership Meeting and Panel Discussion on Thursday, September 18 at 10:00 a.m. PDT/1:00 p.m. EDT, where industry experts will dive into today's new media model. The first 25 members to register will receive a $25 Uber Eats voucher to enjoy during the session, so don't wait to secure your spot.

During the discussion, panelists will cover:

• How enthusiasts are discovering events and products in today's media landscape.
• How to connect authentically with a younger audience across a fragmented media landscape.
• How AI is impacting media development and consumption.
• How manufacturers can align and create an effective marketing mix.
• Why media channel partner collaboration is necessary and how the Media Trade Conference can help.

Panelists include Vin Anatra, former co-founder of Hoonigan and 2023 SEMA Content Creator of the Year; Mike Galimi, network director at MotorTrend/Hearst; and Matt Martelli, CEO at Unlimited Off-Road Racing.  

Register now.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

With safety concerns front of mind, SEMA is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Congress to take a long, unflinching look at how the federal government can deliver advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) policies and guidelines that account for the needs of vehicle owners and the aftermarket amid the rapid, unparalleled advance of vehicle safety technology. 

Aftermarket companies manufacture, sell and service popular and widely used products like vehicle wraps, lift kits, bike racks, bumpers, winches and sideview mirrors, which must operate harmoniously with the technology automakers employ to support ADAS features on modern vehicles and thus ensure safety systems continue to operate as intended for the full lifecycle of a vehicle. As a result, correct calibration and recalibration of safety systems are core concerns for maintaining driver and passenger safety after these common modifications are made. 

• Read SEMA's full comment here. 

SEMA's letter is in response to a USDOT request for information on the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill, commonly known as "the highway bill." SEMA focuses on federal policies that would deliver the transparency needed to ensure specialty aftermarket businesses have the information needed to modify, customize and work on vehicles with ADAS safely. SEMA is requesting that USDOT and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) work with Congress to craft a highway bill that addresses the following through rulemaking and the issuance of guidance and industry requirements: 

• Establish modification ranges and tolerances for new vehicles. 
• Develop guidelines that ensure proper calibration of ADAS and create neutral validation protocols. 
• Create either a visible diagnostic indicator to determine ADAS operational status or an electronic diagnostic indicator for ADAS status. 
• Require that automakers make full lifecycle support for ADAS achievable. 
• Provide full access to Vehicle Dynamic Systems and the data needed to maintain compliance and functionality. 

SEMA Says: "Safety is a primary concern and core focus for the automotive aftermarket," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola in the organization's letter to USDOT. "When cars and trucks needed to be safer, the automotive aftermarket was there; when seat belts, backup cameras, sideview and enhanced rearview mirrors were still optional equipment, it was the aftermarket that sparked their popularization and made them widely available. Today, with ADAS offered in most newer vehicles, the aftermarket is developing products that are compatible with the many safety features these vehicles provide, along with providing collision avoidance systems and blindspot monitors for older vehicles." 

BACKGROUND 

• Vehicles' ADAS technologies and modifications must safely coexist, as outlined in SEMA's right to repair/right to modify principles, with safe-and-correct ADAS recalibration necessary for ensuring optimal vehicle performance after basic modifications, such as installing larger tires and wheels, lift kits, lowering kits, bumpers, grills, push bars, light bars, bike racks and winches. 
• The SEMA Garage's ADAS Technology Center in Plymouth, Michigan, helps SEMA member manufacturers develop products from start to finish that maintain the integrity and performance of ADAS and vehicle safety systems after a vehicle has been modified. 

Questions? Contact Matt Daigle, SEMA director, communications for public and government affairs, at mattd@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

With safety concerns front of mind, SEMA is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Congress to take a long, unflinching look at how the federal government can deliver advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) policies and guidelines that account for the needs of vehicle owners and the aftermarket amid the rapid, unparalleled advance of vehicle safety technology. 

Aftermarket companies manufacture, sell and service popular and widely used products like vehicle wraps, lift kits, bike racks, bumpers, winches and sideview mirrors, which must operate harmoniously with the technology automakers employ to support ADAS features on modern vehicles and thus ensure safety systems continue to operate as intended for the full lifecycle of a vehicle. As a result, correct calibration and recalibration of safety systems are core concerns for maintaining driver and passenger safety after these common modifications are made. 

• Read SEMA's full comment here. 

SEMA's letter is in response to a USDOT request for information on the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill, commonly known as "the highway bill." SEMA focuses on federal policies that would deliver the transparency needed to ensure specialty aftermarket businesses have the information needed to modify, customize and work on vehicles with ADAS safely. SEMA is requesting that USDOT and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) work with Congress to craft a highway bill that addresses the following through rulemaking and the issuance of guidance and industry requirements: 

• Establish modification ranges and tolerances for new vehicles. 
• Develop guidelines that ensure proper calibration of ADAS and create neutral validation protocols. 
• Create either a visible diagnostic indicator to determine ADAS operational status or an electronic diagnostic indicator for ADAS status. 
• Require that automakers make full lifecycle support for ADAS achievable. 
• Provide full access to Vehicle Dynamic Systems and the data needed to maintain compliance and functionality. 

SEMA Says: "Safety is a primary concern and core focus for the automotive aftermarket," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola in the organization's letter to USDOT. "When cars and trucks needed to be safer, the automotive aftermarket was there; when seat belts, backup cameras, sideview and enhanced rearview mirrors were still optional equipment, it was the aftermarket that sparked their popularization and made them widely available. Today, with ADAS offered in most newer vehicles, the aftermarket is developing products that are compatible with the many safety features these vehicles provide, along with providing collision avoidance systems and blindspot monitors for older vehicles." 

BACKGROUND 

• Vehicles' ADAS technologies and modifications must safely coexist, as outlined in SEMA's right to repair/right to modify principles, with safe-and-correct ADAS recalibration necessary for ensuring optimal vehicle performance after basic modifications, such as installing larger tires and wheels, lift kits, lowering kits, bumpers, grills, push bars, light bars, bike racks and winches. 
• The SEMA Garage's ADAS Technology Center in Plymouth, Michigan, helps SEMA member manufacturers develop products from start to finish that maintain the integrity and performance of ADAS and vehicle safety systems after a vehicle has been modified. 

Questions? Contact Matt Daigle, SEMA director, communications for public and government affairs, at mattd@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

The best builds. The boldest customizations. Do you have what it takes to be the next Battle of the Builders champion? There's only one way to find out!

Every year, the best builds and the boldest customizations face off in the industry's leading vehicle competition to see who will be crowned the next Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers champion. 

Applications are open for the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers at semabotb.com. All builders with a vehicle displayed at the 2025 SEMA Show may enter the competition at semabotb.com before the deadline on October 17, 2025.

The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB) will recognize class champions as the best in four categories:

• Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck
• 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road
• Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic
• Young Guns

Only one of the class champions will be crowned the overall BOTB champion during this year's SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas.

Battle of the Builders Young Guns Category

Supporting and inspiring young builders is crucial to the future of the automotive specialty-equipment market. The BOTB Young Guns category is designed to encourage young builders to pursue their passions and shine a light on the up-and-coming builders.

"Young Guns" is a designation within the overall BOTB competition to recognize builders who are under the age of 29 (as of November 7, 2025). Those who meet the criteria and have selected the Young Guns category on the online application are eligible to participate. In addition, all eligible Young Guns applicants who have submitted their online application before August 15, 2025, may be selected to compete in one or more virtual regional Golden Ticket competitions for the chance to win a Golden Ticket SEMA Show prize package. The eligible Young Guns applicants who have been selected for this will be contacted separately by the BOTB operations team via email or phone.

For more information and to apply, visit semabotb.com. For the complete BOTB terms and conditions, visit here.

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.
 

Return of a Small Legend: Renault Twingo Launch Slated for Later This Year

Renault is closer to unveiling its latest innovation in the electric-vehicle (EV) market, according to new spy photos of the '26 Renault Twingo EV driving on a country road.

The distinctive round headlights, the wedge-shaped hood and rounded shapes of the doors and vertical tailgate match those of the concept car teased late last year, according to SEMA News sources, and show that the new Renault Twingo is at a very advanced stage of development and that its launch is imminent.

This fourth-generation Twingo will feature an interior more similar to the one launched in the '90s, according to sources, but will have a front electric motor with a maximum power output of up to 110 hp and a battery with a capacity of 40 kWh, enough to offer a maximum range of around 217 miles.  

DS Automobiles' Flagship DS7 Snapped in Public

The DS7 has long been a cornerstone of French Manufacturer DS Automobiles' lineup, and its upcoming renewal marks a pivotal moment for the brand, according to industry sources. The second-generation crossover is set to debut within the next couple of months, boasting a full redesign and the latest Stellantis technology--including the option of a fully electric powertrain.

Originally launched as the DS7 Crossback in 2017 and refreshed in 2022, the new DS7 remained unseen in public testing–until now, thanks to new images captured by SEMA News sources.

These exclusive spy shots reveal a sleeker, more dynamic DS7 with a bold hexagonal grille flanked by slimmer, more aggressive headlights and sharper daytime run lights. The profile is more sculpted, with a greenhouse design reminiscent of the compact DS4. At the rear, jewel-like taillights, faux vents and a clean lower bumper reflect a move toward modern minimalism. As per DS's current branding strategy, the signature DS emblem is joined by "DS Automobiles" script, ensuring clear brand identity. The new DS7 is also expected to grow in size, with its wheelbase expected to stretch from the current 107.5 in. to 109.6 in, offering increased space for rear passengers. Inside, the new cabin will focus on luxury, cutting-edge infotainment and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

The entry-level model will likely feature the 1.2L turbocharged three-cylinder paired with a 48v mild-hybrid system and six-speed dual-clutch transmission, producing 134 hp from the gas engine and 28 hp from the electric motor, prioritizing efficiency over performance. For more power, plug-in hybrid and fully electric variants will be available, likely delivering between 207 and 227 hp in front-wheel-drive configuration, and up to 316 hp in all-wheel-drive models.

A Bold New Foundation on the MMA Platform: '27 Mercedes-Benz GLA

The Mercedes-Benz '27 GLA is set to usher in a new era for the manufacturer, as it will be built on the advanced Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA). This versatile platform supports internal-combustion, mild-hybrid and full-electric powertrains, positioning the GLA as a multifunctional SUV ready to adapt across the electrification spectrum, industry news sources said.

Like with the brand's CLA and GLB, there will be two different drivetrains available for the new GLA. The electric Variant, called GLA EQ, will be debuting in late 2026 and will be targeting a 450-mile range thanks to its expected 800v architecture and next-generation battery architecture, according to insiders. The MMA's electric models are also expected to enable rapid recharging, which recharges the battery from 10 to 80% in about 15 minutes, along with support for bi-directional charging.

According to the newly acquired spy shots, design cues suggest the '27 GLA will be sportier and more aerodynamic. Expect a sloping roof, swept D-pillar, streamlined panels and possibly an illuminated grille. Inside, the GLA rides the tech wave with an MBUX Superscreen--a full-width display panel merging the instrument cluster, central infotainment and optional passenger screen, all integrated with AI-driven features.

By SEMA News Editors

Zenata Perez, Mike Cooper Join AACF Board of Trustees

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has added two new members to its board of trustees: Zenata Perez, global head of sales for vehicle management solutions at Sensata Technologies, and Mike Cooper, senior vice president of professional United States/Puerto Rico at Advance Auto Parts.

Perez brings more than two decades of experience in sales, business development and strategic leadership across the automotive sector. At Sensata Technologies, Perez leads global sales and manages key partnerships across multiple regions.

Cooper oversees the professional business segment for Advance Auto Parts across the United States and Puerto Rico.

Both new trustees bring fresh insights and extensive networks that will help AACF expand its visibility, deepen industry engagement and reach even more families in need, according to the organization. Their expertise will be instrumental in guiding strategic initiatives, building partnerships and advancing the foundation's mission to provide vital support during times of crisis.

"We're thrilled to welcome Zenata and Mike to the AACF Board," said AACF Executive Director John Kairys. "They both bring unique strengths, broad industry perspectives and a shared passion for helping people are qualities that will help us continue our mission at an even greater scale."

For more information, visit aftermarketcharity.org

Kahn Media Releases AI Visibility Engine to Help Aftermarket Brands

Kahn Media, a Moorpark, California, marketing agency specializing in the automotive, outdoor and luxury markets, has announced the launch of its new AI Visibility Engine.

The AI Visibility Engine aims to help brands adapt to the emergence of AI-driven search results from LLM platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity and others. It is available now and can be implemented for any new or existing clients.

AI-driven search results are increasingly replacing the importance of traditional search engines like Google and SEO efforts, according to the marketing firm. Appearing in these AI-driven search queries is rapidly becoming critical for brands as more consumers turn to LLM platforms to guide their purchasing decisions. Kahn Media's AI Visibility Engine offers brands a comprehensive AI visibility audit and a detailed strategy to ensure consistent and continued brand visibility, the agency said.

The in-depth audit portion of the AI Visibility Engine utilizes Kahn Media's in-house-developed tools and techniques to give brands a deep understanding of how or if they are appearing in search results across multiple LLM platforms. The AI Visibility Engine also provides a curated AI strategy roadmap individually tailored to each brand.

For more information, visit kahnmedia.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors can expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence through the exclusive Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program, which is now open at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

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 or call 949-373-9210.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is hosting a virtual General Membership Meeting on Wednesday, September 17, at 11:00 a.m. PDT/2:00 p.m. EDT, during which select-committee leaders will share updates about PRO's member benefits. 

The meeting is open to current and prospective members and is an opportunity to discover resources designed to help automotive restylers succeed in the specialty-equipment industry. Attendees will hear about events, volunteer opportunities, and other resources aimed at supporting business and professional growth.  

The meeting will also include updates about the PRO Cup Challenge and other PRO events taking place at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, in Las Vegas.   

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

Register here.  

By Ashley Reyes

Time is running out to submit nominations for the 2025 Council & Network Awards that honor the unwavering passion, dedication and innovative spirit that drives the automotive aftermarket industry.

Presented during the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 4–7, these awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of council and network members and honor leading companies and individuals who have made a significant impact in their respective industry segments.  

Nominations are open in the following categories until Monday, September 1:  

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO): Business of the Year, Person of the Year. 
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN): Engineer of the Year. 
• Future Leaders Network (FLN): Professional of the Year Award, Vanguard Award.  
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA): Business of the Year, Hall of Fame, Industry Recognition Award. (Entries for HRIA's Design and Engineering Award and Evolution of Hot Rodding Award will open closer to the SEMA Show). 
• Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC): Hall of Fame
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO): Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement Award, Manufacturer of the Year, Nat Danas Person of the Year, Restyler of the Year.  
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN): Member Impact Award, #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year Award. 
• Truck & Off-Road Industry Alliance (TORA): Hall of Fame, Jessi Combs Ambassador Award, Retailer of the Year.  
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC): Business of the Year, Hall of Fame, Person of the Year.  

Award winners will be announced at each council and network's respective SEMA Show reception, which brings together influential industry leaders and members within each segment of the automotive aftermarket. Nominate today!