First Time in Audi History: RS-Propelled Q5 Sportback
The Volkswagen Group wants to halve its massive portfolio to cut costs drastically, but obviously that won't happen overnight. Before it starts swinging the axe at vehicles that don't make enough money, the Audi arm of the automotive giant is planning to roll out two models it has never offered before. While the three-row Q9 is no longer a secret, some will be surprised to learn an RS Q5 is also on the way – in hatchback and Sportback guise.
Audi has been selling the Q5 for nearly 20 years, yet it has never given the SUV the RS treatment. The first-ever spy shots of the Sportback RS Q5 were taken outside the German Nürburgring today. It's not just the double oval exhaust finishers that give away the vehicle's identity. We can also clearly spot the flared wheel arches concealing meaty tires and possibly wider front and rear tracks.
As if that wasn't enough, the high-voltage yellow sticker indicates we're looking at a plug-in hybrid. Given that the Q5 is closely related to the A5, the high-performance versions should follow the same formula. The RS Q5 is likely to borrow the plug-in hybrid V6 from the RS5, which produces 630 horsepower and 609 pound-feet of torque.
Audi Sport's first plug-in hybrid comes with a chunky 25.9-kWh battery, a major reason why the RS5 Avant tips the scales at a hefty 5,225 pounds. We wouldn't be surprised if the RS Q5 ends up even heavier, given that SUVs typically weigh more than equivalent sedans or wagons.
The RS Q5 is important not just for Audi but for Porsche as well. Zuffenhausen retired the first-generation Macan at the end of July and will launch a direct successor in 2028. Once again, it'll be closely related to the Q5, so it's reasonable to expect similarities between Porsche's range-topping version and the upcoming RS-badged Q5.
The two Volkswagen Group brands are working more closely together to spread development costs and accelerate new projects, including Porsche's 718 Boxster/Cayman EVs and Audi's Concept C. Additionally, the upcoming Q9 we mentioned earlier could share some of its underpinnings with Porsche's three-row SUV.
Spotted With Less Camouflage: Mercedes-AMG Electric SUV
Mercedes-AMG has finally named the day it will pull the camouflage off its most unusual SUV. The fully electric GT SUV will make its world debut on October 17 at The 140 Festival by the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany. The first cars are expected to reach customers in early 2027.
For AMG, this is far more than just another premiere. The project was officially announced back in November 2024: the full-size electric SUV will become the second vehicle on the dedicated AMG.EA platform and the first SUV whose architecture the Affalterbach specialists developed entirely on their own. At the time, the company kept the exact debut date secret. Now the countdown is on.
But the numbers around the new GT SUV still require caution. The 1,169-hp output, up to 1,475 lb.-ft. of torque, 106-kWh battery, 800-V architecture and charging at up to 600 kW officially belong to the electric Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4-Door Coupé. That version uses no fewer than three axial-flux electric motors. The technology is spectacular, but Mercedes-AMG has not given anyone permission to simply copy those figures onto the upcoming SUV.
The technical relationship between the two models, however, is hardly in doubt: both are built around the AMG.EA architecture. Mercedes-Benz's Sindelfingen plant has already been converted for EVs on this platform and produces the new GT 4-Door. Mercedes-Benz Automobil AG also lists Sindelfingen as the future production site for the GT SUV.
So, one date is now circled in red: October 17. That is when Mercedes-AMG is expected to reveal the production GT SUV's specifications, range and final configuration. Only then will we know how close the electric crossover has come to the outrageous numbers of its four-door relative.
Demand for truck and off-road products continues to drive growth across the automotive aftermarket, and the 2026 SEMA Show will bring the industry's leading manufacturers, innovators and buyers together to showcase the latest advancements in capability, performance and customization.
With hundreds of exhibiting brands and a growing footprint dedicated to trucks, off-road and adventure-driven products, the Show offers an unmatched opportunity to discover new parts, technologies and business opportunities shaping one of the aftermarket's largest and most influential segments.
Located in the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, the SEMA Show's dedicated Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road section is a must-visit destination for professionals seeking the latest innovations for pickups and work vehicles. From rugged off-road upgrades to fully equipped overlanding systems, attendees will experience a comprehensive range of products engineered for durability, capability and customization. The section will be adjacent to the expanded Powersports, SxS & Lifestyle section, showcasing brands across the adventure lifestyle category.
The strength of the segment is reflected in the recently released SEMA Market Report, which found that pickup trucks are the largest vehicle segment in the automotive aftermarket, generating $15.0 billion and accounting for 30% of all specialty-equipment spending, making trucks the single biggest driver of aftermarket demand.
Among the largest truck and off-road product categories identified in the report are suspension products ($3.15 billion) and off-road/oversize tires ($2.23 billion). Located in South Hall Lower, these categories continue to fuel demand for lift kits, leveling systems, shocks, tires and related products that enhance vehicle capability both on- and off-road.
The SEMA Market Report also highlights the growing influence of the lifestyle movement. Products such as racks, cargo-management systems, roof-mounted carriers and rooftop tent platforms represent an expanding segment of the market as consumers increasingly outfit vehicles for outdoor recreation, travel and adventure.
The Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road section is anchored by brands that have helped define the category and have exhibited at the SEMA Show for many years, including ARB 4X4 Accessories, FOX, Lippert Automotive, RealTruck, Westin and Yakima. These industry leaders return year after year, introducing new products while reinforcing the Show's reputation as the epicenter for truck innovation.
"The truck and off-road segment is a cornerstone of the SEMA Show and one of the most dynamic areas of growth in the aftermarket," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "From hardcore off-road performance to fully outfitted overlanding builds, this section showcases how brands are pushing the limits of what trucks can do. The continued presence of legacy manufacturers alongside new innovators highlights both the heritage and the future of this market."
Overall, exhibitor commitments for the 2026 SEMA Show have surpassed 1 million net square feet of indoor exhibit space, with more than 2,000 brands preparing to connect with a global audience Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas. The Show continues to rank among the largest and most influential trade events in the country, reflecting sustained growth across the automotive aftermarket.
In addition to the Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road section, the 2026 SEMA Show will feature strong representation across performance, powersports, mobile electronics, restyling, tools and emerging technologies. Major OEMs, including Toyota, Ford, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Stellantis, will also return, further strengthening the connection between factory engineering and aftermarket innovation.
Attendees can also explore signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders, ADAS Showcase and FutureTech Studio, all of which provide insight into the trends, craftsmanship and technologies shaping the next generation of vehicles, including those built for off-road and overland adventures.
Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, 2026, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.
Attendees at the 2026 SEMA Show, held November 3–6 in Las Vegas, can develop new skills, connect with industry leaders and gain practical insights to help grow their businesses through this year's SEMA Education Program. More than 90 sessions will take place Tuesday, November 3, through Thursday, November 5, covering key topics and trends impacting professionals across the automotive and powersports industries.
Sessions will cover business, technical and industry-specific subjects, including leadership, emerging technologies, off-road, powersports and career development. The Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) will present Driving Change: Women Shaping the Future of Off-Road, bringing together women leaders to discuss leadership, innovation, mentorship and opportunities ahead. In the Emerging and Executive Leadership track, Dale Carnegie sessions will cover practical listening and leadership skills, along with how leaders can use AI while maintaining trust and engagement.
"Time away from your business must deliver real value. The SEMA Show Education Program gives attendees practical insights and strategies they can apply immediately to make smarter decisions about where to invest and how to grow," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "SEMA Education, combined with the opportunity to discover products and connect with suppliers, makes the Show an essential business-planning tool."
As part of the broader SEMA Education offering, marquee partners will offer targeted education for a variety of aftermarket communities. For the first time, the Auto Film Mastery Conference will take place at the Show. Designed for window tinters, paint protection film installers, automotive detailers and other restyling professionals, the one-day conference will be held Monday, November 2, in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, one day before the official SEMA Show opens.
Other partner-led programs from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), Tire Industry Association (TIA) and Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will provide specialized training for collision repair and installation professionals. The Collision Repair Stage (booth No. 32145) in South Hall Upper, along with learning centers such as the FutureTech Studio (Central Hall No. 24401) and ADAS Showcase (South Hall Upper No. 31200), will highlight the latest in repair, ADAS, alternative propulsion and mobility.
"SEMA Show Education reflects the breadth of the automotive aftermarket and the wide range of professional fields that make up this industry," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "Whether attendees are looking for business strategies, technical information, leadership development or insights into the future of the industry, our education program gives them another way to make the most of their time at the Show."
Most sessions are first come, first served and free of charge. Attendees can build a customized schedule and register for paid sessions through the Show Planner tool. Explore the full 2026 SEMA Show Education Program at www.semashow.com/education.
The SEMA Show, this year November 3-6, in Las Vegas, may be familiar to many in the automotive aftermarket. (Still need to register? Do so here.) But the Show is just one part of what comes with being part of the industry's largest community of automotive professionals, builders and enthusiasts.
SEMA connects the people who make the automotive aftermarket what it is. From manufacturers and retailers to builders, technicians and enthusiasts, SEMA brings together a global community united by a passion for cars, trucks and everything in between.
Being part of the SEMA community means connecting with the people, ideas and opportunities shaping the industry all year long. The 2026 SEMA Show offers one of the biggest opportunities to experience that community in person.
From industry-leading competitions and educational programming to art exhibits, livestream coverage and emerging vehicle technologies, the following activations are among the highlights planned for this year's SEMA Show.
2026 SEMA Show Features and Activations
New for 2026: Powersports/Side-by-Side (SxS)/Lifestyle Section
The Powersports/SxS/Lifestyle section will be anchored in the West Hall, with access to adjacent parking lots for dynamic outdoor activations and vehicle demonstrations.
The Show floor will undergo an evolution to group trucks, off-road and powersports together, reflecting the "total package" approach enthusiasts take toward their adventure builds. The section will highlight a diverse range of categories, including:
Motorcycles and dirt bikes
Side-by-sides
Related adventure lifestyle gear and accessories
New and returning manufacturers are already showing excitement for the expanded section. "We're proud to represent KYT Helmets at SEMA 2026," said TJ Jira, CEO of KYT Americas. "We believe it's an opportunity to elevate powersports and bring more visibility to our brand in the market."
From the Toyo Tires Treadpass to hundreds of booth and feature vehicles across the campus, the creativity and craftsmanship set for display this year will inspire and impress any automotive aftermarket enthusiast.
SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers High Performance Car Care
Now in its 13th year, the famed SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB) Presented by Mothers High Performance Car Care competition continues to stand as the automotive aftermarket's premier platform for custom builders exhibiting at the SEMA Show.
New for 2026: The SEMA Battle of the Builders will expand to include motorcycles, introducing an additional set of awards recognizing the Top 3 standout bike builders and an overall motorcycle champion with the new SEMA BOTB: Bike Builder Shootout category.
For 2026, the competition will again feature its four core automotive competition classes: Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and BFGoodrich Young Guns.
Class winners will advance through the competition, with one ultimately named overall BOTB champion.
SEMA Education offers Showgoers a dynamic experience that complements the high-energy learning environment found throughout the Show floor. Attendees can develop new skills, connect with industry leaders and gain practical business insights through sessions covering emerging trends, technical advancements, workforce development and business growth strategies.
The SEMA Collision Repair Stage will serve as a hub for industry engagement, bringing together collision-repair professionals for education, discussion and networking throughout the SEMA Show.
Through dedicated programming from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), attendees can participate in collision-repair-focused educational sessions and special industry events designed to address the latest trends, technologies and business challenges facing the collision-repair market. The stage offers valuable opportunities to learn from industry experts, gain practical insights and connect with peers across the collision-repair community.
The SEMA FutureTech Studio is a real-world reflection of today's advancements and opportunities available to aftermarket businesses.
Located in booth #24401, this featured exhibit brings together experts and cutting-edge technologies from across the mobility landscape, with innovations in alternative fuels, electric vehicle (EV) and powertrain development, advanced manufacturing and advanced vehicle safety systems.
The New Products Showcase is the world's largest display of new automotive aftermarket products and remains one of the top destinations for buyers and media at the SEMA Show.
Featuring thousands of newly introduced products from across the industry, the Showcase offers attendees a firsthand look at the innovations shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket, returning to the Lower South Hall near the main registration.
Organized by the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), the PRO Cup Challenge celebrates creativity, craftsmanship and innovation within the restyling industry while demonstrating the value of dealer-ready accessory packages.
Finalists are challenged to design an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience while meeting real-world dealership requirements. Entries are evaluated on marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity and profitability, while attendees also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite build through the People's Choice Award.
Sponsored by the Tire Industry Association (TIA), the Global Tire Expo serves as a comprehensive showcase for the tire industry, featuring the latest products, technologies and services from leading manufacturers and suppliers. The exhibit attracts tire dealers, retailers, distributors and automotive professionals from around the world while providing valuable opportunities for networking and business development.
SEMA Industry Honors
One night. One stage. Celebrating the people and stories driving our industry forward––only at the 2026 SEMA Industry Honors in Las Vegas.
On Thursday, November 5, the 2026 SEMA Industry Honors takes over the BleauLive Theater at Fontainebleau Las Vegas for an unforgettable evening celebrating the people, companies and innovators driving the specialty-equipment industry forward. From SEMA Content Creator of the Year to SEMA Person of the Year and other prestigious honors, this is the industry's premier night of recognition.
A longstanding SEMA Show tradition, the Kickoff Breakfast brings together the aftermarket community before the Show officially opens. The event celebrates the innovators and entrepreneurs driving the industry forward and includes the presentation of the New Product Showcase Awards, Manufacturer of the Year and Channel Partner of the Year honors.
The SEMA Show opens its doors to a worldwide audience, for the third year in a row, via a livestream available on YouTube and Facebook. Throughout Show week, SEMA Live is set to feature 31 hours of up-close SEMA Show coverage across four days.
Attendees can see how it all comes together in person at the SEMA Live Studio in its Central Hall location, booth #20341.
Visit any of the SEMA Gear locations throughout the Show floor to purchase the official branded apparel and merchandise for the SEMA Show. Hurry, as these limited edition and collector items can sell out quickly. Search "SEMA Gear" at SEMAShow.com/floorplan and on the SEMA Show app to see all locations available, or click below.
Photographer Larry Chen, pictured above, has spent two decades documenting the people, vehicles and moments that define automotive culture. As the Featured SEMA Show Artist, Chen's photography will be incorporated throughout the Show's visual identity, appearing in signage, marketing materials and special installations. Chen is the first photographer selected as Featured SEMA Show Artist and the fifth creative to receive the honor since the program's inception.
Art Walk
Get immersed in automotive lifestyle and culture at the SEMA Show Art Walk, where some of the industry's premier artists will showcase their latest creations and celebrate the creativity that drives car culture.
Keep an eye on SEMA News for additional updates, announcements and programs set for the 2026 SEMA Show. Register here.
Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, 2026, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.
SEMA and the automotive aftermarket recently lost two longtime industry leaders, Joan Weiand and Bill Wagner, whose careers spanned decades of service to the industry.
Joan Weiand, SEMA Hall of Fame, 1995
Joan Weiand, the SEMA Hall of Famer and longtime leader of Weiand Automotive Industries, has reportedly passed away. Weiand was inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame in 1995, which was 20 years after her husband, Phil Weiand, was inducted in 1975.
Joan Weiand joined her husband's business, Weiand Automotive Industries, after they married in 1964. She left her job as a keypunch operator to work part-time in the company office, where her responsibilities quickly grew. She eventually became involved in nearly every aspect of the business, including advertising, production, product development and manufacturing scheduling.
When Phil passed away in 1978, Joan took over the company and served as its president for 20 years. Her experience and knowledge of the business positioned her to carry on the company's legacy while navigating the challenges of leading an automotive aftermarket manufacturer.
"You find yourself in a situation where you must go forward," she once said. "It's sink or swim, and I am not one to sink."
Beyond Weiand Industries, Joan was a dedicated supporter of the automotive aftermarket and SEMA. In 1984, she established the SEMA Scholarship Fund in memory of Phil with a $10,000 donation. The fund reflected her commitment to encouraging young people to pursue careers in the industry.
Phil founded Weiand Automotive in the early days of hot rodding, producing cylinder heads and intake manifolds for Flathead V8s before expanding into a broad range of speed equipment. A racer himself, Phil continued pursuing his passion for cars despite being paralyzed by polio.
Joan remained active in SEMA after her retirement and continued attending the annual SEMA Banquet (now known as Industry Honors).
Weiand Industries is now owned by Holley Performance Products.
Bill Wagner, Former SEMA Board Member and SEMA Show Chairman
W.S. "Bill" Wagner, a longtime automotive aftermarket sales and marketing executive and former SEMA Show chairman, has passed away. His career in the aftermarket spanned more than four decades, including 16 years with Winfield Consumer Products/Husky Liners.
Wagner entered the aftermarket in 1976 after working in the corrugated packaging industry. He joined Deflecta-Shield Corp. as a sales manager and helped grow the company from less than $1 million in sales to more than $28 million. He later served as vice president of sales and marketing for DFM Corp., Deflecta-Shield's parent company.
After becoming a marketing consultant in 1988, Wagner worked with companies including Auto VentShade and EGR Inc., developing sales and marketing programs. He later focused on the lifted off-road vehicle market before returning to plastic products and joining Husky Liners in 1994.
Wagner served on the SEMA Board of Directors and various committees, and was also chairman of the SEMA Show. He was also a U.S. Army veteran who served with NATO forces in Europe during the late '60s.
Wagner was known throughout the industry for his expertise in sales and marketing and his longstanding commitment to SEMA and the aftermarket.
SEMA sends its condolences to the Weiand and Wagner colleagues, friends and families.
SEMA Show exhibitors have an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the future of the automotive aftermarket by participating in the 2026 SEMA Show Student Program, taking place on Thursday during the November 3-6 event in Las Vegas.
Each year, the Student Program invites more than 1,000 college students to the SEMA Show to explore the wide range of aftermarket career paths from manufacturing and R&D to engineering, marketing and sales, business ownership, finance and more. Exhibitors who participate in the SEMA Show Student Program will help cultivate the next generation of industry leaders, educate students about the size and opportunities of the industry and build relationships that may lead to future hires.
Opportunities to get involved include:
SEMA Show Student Program Networking Breakfast
Thursday, November 5 | 8:00 AM-9:30 a.m. PST | LVCC, West Hall, W326
Meet hundreds of students pursuing automotive careers during the SEMA Show Student Program Networking Breakfast. This event gives exhibitors a chance to meet face-to-face with emerging talent, build brand awareness and share industry knowledge with students who are passionate about contributing to the future of the industry.
Participation is free; the event simply requires 90 minutes from a company representative. No setup time or marketing materials are required.
Gear-Up Girl Networking Event (Reserved for Women)
Thursday, November 5 | 11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. PST | West Hall, W256
Many female students are seeking guidance, encouragement and insight as they begin their careers. The Gear Up Girl Networking Event gives female aftermarket professionals an opportunity to share their career journey, provide mentorship and help inspire the next generation of female leaders in the industry.
During the event, SBN will honor one student with the Jessi Combs Rising Star Award, presented by SBN and the Jessi Combs Foundation.
Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.
With the Japanese Classic Car Show (JCCS) just around the corner, the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) is looking forward to joining vehicle builders, restorers, manufacturers and industry professionals at Marina Green Park in Long Beach, California, on Saturday, October 3, 2026.
Recognized as the premier gathering for kyusha enthusiasts and fans of classic Japanese automobiles, JCCS celebrates the vehicles, craftsmanship and culture that continue to inspire generations of enthusiasts worldwide. As part of its ongoing commitment to support the restoration industry, ARMO will be on-site with a booth to connect with attendees and share valuable industry resources.
Booth Vehicle Spotlight: Bob Russell's '73 Datsun 240Z
Each year, ARMO selects a builder to showcase a vehicle in its booth at JCCS. This year, ARMO selected Bob Russell and his award-winning, beautifully restored '73 Datsun 240Z.
Russel is the Datsun's original owner and purchased it new following his return to the US from his 1972 Navy deployment to Vietnam. The vehicle's history includes:
1973-1990: Served as Russel's daily driver.
2018-2019: Went through a ground-up, bare-metal home garage restoration.
2021: First Place Stock Class Winner, ZCON
2022: First in Class, Hillsborough Concours d'Elegance
2025: First Place, Huntington Beach Concours d'Elegance
Attending JCCS? Visit the ARMO Booth to see the Datsun up close, connect with ARMO leaders and discover resources designed to support automotive restoration shops and manufacturers.
With thousands of media members from around the world looking for the latest automotive trends, technologies and products at the 2026 SEMA Show––November 3-6 in Las Vegas––exhibitors still have time to connect with journalists and build awareness ahead of the event.
Below are no-cost tools and resources available to SEMA Show exhibitors:
Post press releases in the SEMA Show Online Media Center: By posting news releases in the SEMA Show Online Media Center, exhibitors can ensure reporters looking for Show-related news do not miss important announcements. Posting to the Online Media Center can also generate coverage through SEMA publications and social media channels. Releases can be submitted at semashow.com/press-release.
Host a press conference: Exhibitors announcing a new product, vehicle or service at the SEMA Show can generate additional media interest by hosting a press conference in their booth. Press conference requests can be submitted through the Exhibitor Dashboard.
Vehicle Reveal (New for 2026): Exhibitors unveiling a vehicle build can submit a Vehicle Reveal Form through the Exhibitor Dashboard to have their reveal included in a schedule shared with credentialed media.
Promote participation on social media: Exhibitors can access free graphics, copy templates, logos and promotional tools––all sized and ready to post––at semashow.com/digital-tools.
Create a press release or press kit: In addition to distributing materials in their booths, exhibitors can place physical press kits and news releases in the SEMA Show Media Center, located in Room S219 on the Skybridge between South and Central Halls, at no cost.
Additional exhibitor resources are available in the Exhibitor Service Manual at semashow.com/esm.
Questions about public relations opportunities can be directed to the SEMA Show Public Relations team at pr@sema.org.
Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.
PRO Series II Rear Bumper for '24-'26 Toyota Tacoma
Body Armor 4x4 has introduced the new PRO Series II rear bumper for '24-'26 Toyota Tacoma applications. Featuring a modular design with provisions for optional swing-outs and tire carriers and made with high-strength steel, the Pro Series II provides Tacoma owners with a versatile rear bumper solution built for both daily driving and off-road adventures.
Eibach SPECIAL EDITION PRO-KIT springs aims to maintain the factory look and fit of the factory equipment while delivering enhanced performance. By lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity, the springs improve steering response, handling and overall vehicle dynamics while reducing ground clearance and fender gap for a sportier appearance, the manufacturer said. Precision-wound from high-tensile steel alloy and finished with a matte black coating, the springs are engineered to work with factory electronic or standard dampers.
FiTech Fuel Injection has released its all-new Go EFI Vintage 97 EFI Systems, bringing modern electronic fuel injection technology to enthusiasts who want the appearance of traditional Stromberg Style 97 bolt pattern multi-carburetor induction while benefiting from modern electronic fuel injection technology, the manufacturer said. Each system features remote ECU architecture, remote IAC, timing control capability, Tri-Sensor technology and a matte black finish for an authentic look.
TOPDON USA, a provider of automotive diagnostic tools, has introduced the TC001 Mini plug-in thermal camera. The TC001 Mini features a native 96×96 infrared sensor and uses patented Thermal Image Super Resolution (TISR) technology to enhance thermal images to a 384×384 resolution. The TC001 Mini is supported by iOS, Android and Windows for flexible and easy plug-in operation, and is compatible with the TopInfrared app and TopView PC software for analysis and reporting, the manufacturer said.
PRI Announces Programming for Motorsports Engineering Symposium at 2026 PRI Show
PRI has announced the session schedule for the inaugural PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium, taking place Thursday, December 10, during the 2026 PRI Show at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
To register and learn more about the PRI Show, visit PRI2026.com/Attend.
The PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium will bring race engineers, motorsports professionals, manufacturers, educators and emerging engineering talent together for technical discussions focused on the challenges shaping modern motorsports. Sessions will examine the engineering challenges that impact on-track performance, from simulation and powertrain development to materials, manufacturing and workforce development.
The technical sessions will feature perspectives from leaders across motorsports and engineering, including experts from INDYCAR, Purdue University and Motor State Distributing.
2026 PRI MOTORSPORTS ENGINEERING SYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE (all times Eastern)
10:00 a.m. — Opening Statements
10:15 a.m. — From Simulation to Track: Closing the Performance Gap
11:15 a.m. — Powertrain & Thermal Limits: Where Performance Breaks
1:30 p.m. — Building the Next Race Engineer: Closing the Talent Gap
2:30 p.m. — Materials & Manufacturing: Speed to Track
3:30 p.m. — The Future of Motorsports Engineering
4:30 p.m. — Closing Remarks
"The PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium is designed to bring different areas of motorsports engineering into the same conversation," said PRI Managing Director Doug Bresnahan. "From simulation and powertrain development to materials, manufacturing and developing the next generation of engineers, these are issues that affect the future of the industry. Bringing the right people together to share knowledge and experience is an important part of PRI's commitment to technical education and industry advancement."
"The technical demands of motorsports continue to evolve, and the companies supporting the industry have to evolve with them," said Motor State Distributing Vice President of Marketing Daryl Sampson. "This program creates an opportunity to share knowledge, explore new technologies and connect with the engineers and professionals who are solving these challenges every day."
"Developing the next generation of motorsports engineers requires more than classroom learning," said Purdue University Director of Motorsports Engineering Chris Finch. "It requires opportunities to connect students and emerging engineers with the people, technologies and challenges shaping the industry. The program provides a valuable forum for that exchange."
"Engineering decisions are ultimately about finding performance, and that requires bringing together data, technology and experience," said INDYCAR Vice President of Competition and Engineering Mike O'Gara. "Creating a forum where engineers and industry professionals can discuss those challenges and share what they are learning is valuable for the entire motorsports community."
The PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium is open to all registered PRI Show attendees. A valid PRI Show badge is required for entry. There are no additional registration requirements or fees to attend.
The 2026 PRI Show takes place December 10-12 at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, bringing together motorsports professionals from across the globe.
Register today to connect with more than 1,000 exhibiting companies across more than 370,000 net sq. ft. of exhibit space, explore new products and technologies, attend education sessions, network with industry professionals and experience everything the PRI Show has to offer.
To register and learn more, visit PRI2026.com/Attend. PRI membership is no longer required to attend.
Autobahn Country Club Unveils Expanded North Track
Autobahn Country Club, the Joliet, Illinois, private motorsports club, has unveiled its newly expanded North Track, part of the facility's "Drive to 2035" long-term development plan.
The $3-million expansion of Autobahn's North Track marks one of the track's most significant investments since opening in 2004, according to track officials.
"When we created Autobahn, the idea was simple but radical: car enthusiasts deserved a community of their own," said Mark Basso, co-founder of Autobahn Country Club. "More than two decades later, this expansion shows that the idea is still evolving. We are enhancing the experience on a track they already know and love while preserving the character of the original circuit and staying true to what makes this community so special."
The expansion adds approximately half a mile of new track, featuring a 21-ft. elevation change, an 11% grade and a technical series of esses. The longest North Track configuration will now measure 1.5 miles with 12 turns, compared with the original nine-turn circuit. New connection points also allow the North Track to be driven in five distinct configurations, bringing Autobahn's total road-course configurations to 11.
The new track was designed by Tilke Engineers and Architects, the international firm behind Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, and the Bahrain International Circuit.
The North Track expansion is the first major project within Drive to 2035, Autobahn's broader vision to evolve its 330-acre campus and enhance the member and guest experience for years to come, track officials said, building on more than two decades of operational experience that has transformed Autobahn from a private road-course concept into a comprehensive automotive destination.
Autobahn is home to more than 560 members and a Member Racing Series that hosts 51 car races annually across open wheel, prototype and GT classes. Beyond its North and South road courses, the campus includes Kart Circuit Autobahn, the Autobahn Driver Academy powered by Toyota, Teen Driver Academy powered by Toyota, the Toyota TRD Pro Off-Road Experience Center, autocross, a 3-acre skid pad, corporate and group programs as well as hospitality experiences.
The new North Track will be unveiled at a special event on October 7 and will officially open during Autobahn's OktoberFast weekend, October 16–18.
