By Ashley Reyes

Being a woman in the automotive aftermarket requires its own set of skills. Whether you're already leading, being asked to lead more or preparing for what's next in your career, taking time to invest in your development can help you reach your goals faster while providing you with tools to make more meaningful contributions to your organization.    

Women in the automotive aftermarket are invited to attend the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Women's Leadership Forum, March 3-5, 2026, in San Diego, California, to gain these five qualities of successful leaders:  

1. Resilience 

Leaders face unique challenges that demand mental strength and adaptability. The Forum will teach attendees how to cultivate resilience as a foundation for leadership success.  

2. Emotional Intelligence 

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is an advantage when balanced with authenticity. The Forum will explore ways to harness EQ to lead with empathy, manage conflict and build trust without compromising your unique voice. 

3. Clear Communication 

Effective leaders know that how you communicate is just as important as what you say. The Forum will help attendees develop an executive presence and speak with clarity, confidence and influence.  

4. Influence 

True leadership is not about the title; it's about influence, impact and the ability to inspire action in others. The Forum will challenge the traditional notions of authority and deliver tools to help attendees lead with authenticity and purpose, no matter their role.  

5. A Trusted Network 

Leadership is stronger with support. Attendees will leave the Forum with a trusted network of women who can offer advice, encouragement and mentorship long after the event ends. 

Seize Your Moment  

The SBN Women's Leadership Forum is the only event of its kind designed to accelerate the growth of women leaders in the automotive aftermarket. Don't miss this opportunity to build the skills, confidence, and connections that move your career forward. Explore the full program and register now at www.sema.org/sbn-wlf. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Industry members are invited to participate in the 2026 SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, taking place in our nation's capital on May 5-6, 2026. 

• The SEMA and PRI Washington Rally is one of our industry's most important events. The Washington Rally provides an opportunity for SEMA and PRI member companies to come together and advocate on behalf of the specialty-automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries with members of Congress. 

With the 2026 mid-term election in November and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for SEMA and PRI members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry. Whether it's protecting the right to modify vehicles, creating tax certainty for race tracks, expanding motorized access to federal government lands or another policy issue that's important to your business, there are many important issues facing SEMA and PRI members in the nation's capital.  

While in Washington, D.C., you will have the opportunity to network with your colleagues in the automotive aftermarket industry, meet with your members of Congress and their staff to discuss critical issues and advocate for policies that will benefit our industry. Your participation helps ensure that our industry's concerns are heard and that we can continue to innovate and grow. 
 

2026 Washington Rally Itinerary (All times EDT) 

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 

SEMA and PRI PAC Reception 

5:30-6:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C. Capitol Hill, Sapphire Room and Terrace (Penthouse Level) 

• A PAC contribution for the suggested amount of $250 per individual is required to attend this event. If you have already made your 2026 SEMA and PRI PAC contribution, this event may be complimentary as a part of your PAC membership benefits. Please direct questions to Eleanor Rollings, SEMA director of PAC development, at eleanorr@sema.org. 

Washington Rally Congressional Dinner 

6:30-8:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 

Breakfast and Welcome Briefing 

7:30-8:30 a.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Morning Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 
 

Congressional Luncheon 

12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Capitol Hill Club 
 

Afternoon Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 

Hotel Accommodations 

There are a limited number of rooms available in a SEMA/PRI block at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill, for $409 per night, plus tax. A link to book a room is provided upon completion of the registration process. 

For more information on the SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA senior director for federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Industry members are invited to participate in the 2026 SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, taking place in our nation's capital on May 5-6, 2026. 

• The SEMA and PRI Washington Rally is one of our industry's most important events. The Washington Rally provides an opportunity for SEMA and PRI member companies to come together and advocate on behalf of the specialty-automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries with members of Congress. 

With the 2026 mid-term election in November and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for SEMA and PRI members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry. Whether it's protecting the right to modify vehicles, creating tax certainty for race tracks, expanding motorized access to federal government lands or another policy issue that's important to your business, there are many important issues facing SEMA and PRI members in the nation's capital.  

While in Washington, D.C., you will have the opportunity to network with your colleagues in the automotive aftermarket industry, meet with your members of Congress and their staff to discuss critical issues and advocate for policies that will benefit our industry. Your participation helps ensure that our industry's concerns are heard and that we can continue to innovate and grow. 
 

2026 Washington Rally Itinerary (All times EDT) 

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 

SEMA and PRI PAC Reception 

5:30-6:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C. Capitol Hill, Sapphire Room and Terrace (Penthouse Level) 

• A PAC contribution for the suggested amount of $250 per individual is required to attend this event. If you have already made your 2026 SEMA and PRI PAC contribution, this event may be complimentary as a part of your PAC membership benefits. Please direct questions to Eleanor Rollings, SEMA director of PAC development, at eleanorr@sema.org. 

Washington Rally Congressional Dinner 

6:30-8:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 

Breakfast and Welcome Briefing 

7:30-8:30 a.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Morning Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 
 

Congressional Luncheon 

12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Capitol Hill Club 
 

Afternoon Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 

Hotel Accommodations 

There are a limited number of rooms available in a SEMA/PRI block at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill, for $409 per night, plus tax. A link to book a room is provided upon completion of the registration process. 

For more information on the SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA senior director for federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Industry members are invited to participate in the 2026 SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, taking place in our nation's capital on May 5-6, 2026. 

• The SEMA and PRI Washington Rally is one of our industry's most important events. The Washington Rally provides an opportunity for SEMA and PRI member companies to come together and advocate on behalf of the specialty-automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries with members of Congress. 

With the 2026 mid-term election in November and the balance of power in both the House and Senate up for grabs, it's more important than ever for SEMA and PRI members to come to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the industry. Whether it's protecting the right to modify vehicles, creating tax certainty for race tracks, expanding motorized access to federal government lands or another policy issue that's important to your business, there are many important issues facing SEMA and PRI members in the nation's capital.  

While in Washington, D.C., you will have the opportunity to network with your colleagues in the automotive aftermarket industry, meet with your members of Congress and their staff to discuss critical issues and advocate for policies that will benefit our industry. Your participation helps ensure that our industry's concerns are heard and that we can continue to innovate and grow. 
 

2026 Washington Rally Itinerary (All times EDT) 

Tuesday, May 5, 2026 

SEMA and PRI PAC Reception 

5:30-6:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C. Capitol Hill, Sapphire Room and Terrace (Penthouse Level) 

• A PAC contribution for the suggested amount of $250 per individual is required to attend this event. If you have already made your 2026 SEMA and PRI PAC contribution, this event may be complimentary as a part of your PAC membership benefits. Please direct questions to Eleanor Rollings, SEMA director of PAC development, at eleanorr@sema.org. 

Washington Rally Congressional Dinner 

6:30-8:30 p.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 

Breakfast and Welcome Briefing 

7:30-8:30 a.m., Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill, Crown Ballroom (Penthouse Level) 
 

Morning Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 
 

Congressional Luncheon 

12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m., Capitol Hill Club 
 

Afternoon Meetings with Congressional Lawmakers and Staffs 

2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m., House and Senate Office Buildings 

Hotel Accommodations 

There are a limited number of rooms available in a SEMA/PRI block at the Royal Sonesta Washington, D.C., Capitol Hill, for $409 per night, plus tax. A link to book a room is provided upon completion of the registration process. 

For more information on the SEMA and PRI Washington Rally, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA senior director for federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org. 

By SEMA News Editors

T.C.I. Engineering

'69-'72 2WD Blazer Chassis

T.C.I. Engineering has released all three versions (Classic, Pro-Touring and Grounded) of its new '69-'72 2WD Blazer chassis. The Classic chassis, the 5/7 drop chassis, utilizes its Pro-Touring IFS and 4-Link rear suspension. The Pro-Touring chassis utilizes its Pro-Touring IFS and Torque Arm rear suspension with stepped rear frame rails. The Grounded chassis utilizes a narrowed track width version of its Pro-Touring IFS and 4-Link rear suspension with even more aggressive stepped rear framerails.

For more information, read the release here on totalcostinvolved.com.

ICON Vehicle Dynamics

'03-'24 Toyota 4Runner Sway Bar Link Kits

ICON has introduced front and rear Sway Bar Link Kits for '03-'24 Toyota 4Runner and associated Toyota platforms. These sway bar links are engineered to match the stock sway bar link length but feature a more robust construction and maintenance-free ball joints to ensure smooth, consistent movement through the entire range of suspension travel. This results in improved on-road handling and more predictable performance off-road.

iconvehicledynamics.com

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

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.

Canepa

Body-Paint Restoration Manager in Scotts Valley, California

Canepa is seeking an experienced individual for its body-paint restoration manager position with a minimum of 10 years of related restoration, paint and detail experience and an extensive background in concours-level vehicle restoration and preparation. Strong management experience is also required.

AWE

Catalog Manager in Horsham, Pennsylvania

This position will be responsible for strategically managing product data workflows, vehicle application updates and dealer data integration. The role will also require the selected candidate to conduct research and prepare business cases to support product decisions and strategic initiatives, and draft complete, presentation-ready sales training materials for new product releases.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Mpohodzhay

By SEMA News Editors

Turn 14 Distribution Announces Winner of Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro SEMA Show Build Giveaway

Turn 14 Distribution has announced the winner of its T14 and SuperPro Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Giveaway, marking the conclusion of the build and testing program capped with a dealer-exclusive promotion.

The '23 Solar Octane Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro was developed in partnership with SuperPro and a network of industry brands. Customers who placed orders for brands featured on this build during the promotional period earned points toward becoming one of the finalists to win the Sequoia.

Team Beefcake Racing, located in Moscow, Ohio, will be the official recipient of the fully built and tested Toyota Sequoia.

Following its SEMA Show debut, the Sequoia was put to the test through a post-show desert shakedown and extensive travel, including Australian off-roading ventures during its visit to SuperPro's headquarters in Brisbane. A complete SuperPro suspension system and King Shocks' 2.5-in. remote-reservoir coilovers delivered improved stability and ride control across demanding conditions. Supporting upgrades included braking, wheel and tire, power, exhaust, lighting and protection components from Hawk Performance, Weld Racing, Mickey Thompson, aFe Power, MagnaFlow, Firestone Airide, LIQUI MOLY, Baja Designs, sPOD, BantamX and Rally Armor.

With every Turn 14 Distribution customer eligible, eight finalists were selected based on a points tally, and the final winner was chosen at random during a private live announcement.

For more information, visit turn14.com.

Got company news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia 

In production since 2021, the Volkswagen T7 multipurpose vehicle is preparing for a refresh. Due in the latter half of 2026 as a '27 model, a prototype has been spotted testing in California specification.

Pictured with Ocean decals on the quarter panels, the camouflaged prototype is undergoing cold-weather testing in Sweden with completely new headlights that are slightly larger than the T7's outgoing units.

Following the camouflage pattern, a continuous light strip is also on the menu, and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles may further make a case for an illuminated Volkswagen logo. The heavily camouflaged front bumper also shows reworked intakes. On the other hand, thermal management is a must for any manufacturer reengineering Euro 6 powerplants to comply with Euro 7 regulations. Going into effect for all new type approvals on November 29, 2026, the latest standard includes very short trips and extreme cold.

Emissions are measured from the moment the key is turned, and many onboard sensors continuously estimate nitrogen oxides and particulate matter during every trip. Given the above, superior thermal management is one of the pillars of achieving Euro 7 compliance.

Volkswagen has also positioned the T7's turn signals higher up. While there are no visible changes at the rear of this prototype, the series-production model is expected to feature different taillights.

Criticized for shoddy infotainment, the T7 Multivan and plusher California should receive new MIB4 systems for '27. The MIB4 designation stands for Modular Infotainment Matrix 4, a standardized hardware and software architecture that includes an Intelligent Digital Assistant with ChatGPT integration, backlit sliders, menu shortcut bars and a more powerful chipset.

When it comes to engine choices, don't expect any big changes from the current 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TSI and 1.5 eHYBRID. Similarly, the manual transmission is unlikely to return to the Multivan and California because Volkswagen's dual-clutch transaxle is more efficient.

The 1.5 eHYBRID uses a six-speed transmission referred to as the DQ400e, whereas the 2.0 TSI and its diesel counterpart are paired with seven-speed units Volkswagen calls the DQ381. Both transmissions feature wet clutches for improved heat management, smoother low-speed gear shifts and increased torque capacity.

Capable of towing up to 3,500 lbs. as a plug-in hybrid or 4,400 lbs. without any sort of electric assistance, the T7 Multivan and California are available with 4MOTION all-wheel drive only if you pay extra for the plug-in hybrid.

The plug-in hybrid is the punchiest T7, producing a combined 242 hp. In all-electric mode, Volkswagen advertises driving ranges of 55 to 59 miles. With a bit of luck, the '27 facelift will crack into the 60s.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

U.S. Representative Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23) recently visited the world-famous King of the Hammers (KOH) off-road race in Johnson Valley, California. This SEMA-coordinated visit brought Rep. Obernolte to the event in his Southern California district, where he met with organizers and key stakeholders to go behind the scenes at Hammertown and discuss some of the most pressing issues facing the off-road and aftermarket communities. Rep. Obernolte's visit also included an aerial tour of Johnson Valley via helicopter. 

Rep. Obernolte is leading the way to ensure that Johnson Valley remains a shared-use area for motorized recreation. Of note, the U.S. military released a proposal in August 2025 that would greatly expand its access to the airspace above KOH, which is used for medevac and for drone footage of events like KOH. The Congressman has led the fight to ensure the airspace above Johnson Valley continues to be shared by engaging the U.S. military and the Federal Aviation Administration leadership on the issue.  

(From left to right) Dawn Rowe, Chair of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors; Dave Cole, co-founder of King of the Hammers; U.S. Representative Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23); Shannon Welch, vice president of the Blue Ribbon Coalition Board of Directors; and Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs.

Rep. Obernolte is also the co-lead sponsor of the "ADAS Functionality and Integrity Act," or H.R. 6688. This bipartisan bill is critical to ensuring that aftermarket businesses have the information needed to properly calibrate ADAS after a vehicle has been modified by requiring the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to create guidelines outlining when ADAS must be calibrated and procedures clarifying the procedures for calibrating these systems. Click here to send a letter to your U.S. Representative requesting that they support this important bill. 

"King of the Hammers is more than a world-class off-road event--it is a showcase of the innovation, craftsmanship, and community that define the High Desert," said Rep. Obernolte. "Every year, it brings jobs, tourism, and national attention to our region, supporting local businesses and highlighting the deep connection between motorsports and American manufacturing. It was a pleasure to join organizers, competitors, and fans at this year’s event and to witness that impact firsthand." 

For additional information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org.  

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

U.S. Representative Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23) recently visited the world-famous King of the Hammers (KOH) off-road race in Johnson Valley, California. This SEMA-coordinated visit brought Rep. Obernolte to the event in his Southern California district, where he met with organizers and key stakeholders to go behind the scenes at Hammertown and discuss some of the most pressing issues facing the off-road and aftermarket communities. Rep. Obernolte's visit also included an aerial tour of Johnson Valley via helicopter. 

Rep. Obernolte is leading the way to ensure that Johnson Valley remains a shared-use area for motorized recreation. Of note, the U.S. military released a proposal in August 2025 that would greatly expand its access to the airspace above KOH, which is used for medevac and for drone footage of events like KOH. The Congressman has led the fight to ensure the airspace above Johnson Valley continues to be shared by engaging the U.S. military and the Federal Aviation Administration leadership on the issue.  

(From left to right) Dawn Rowe, Chair of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors; Dave Cole, co-founder of King of the Hammers; U.S. Representative Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23); Shannon Welch, vice president of the Blue Ribbon Coalition Board of Directors; and Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs.

Rep. Obernolte is also the co-lead sponsor of the "ADAS Functionality and Integrity Act," or H.R. 6688. This bipartisan bill is critical to ensuring that aftermarket businesses have the information needed to properly calibrate ADAS after a vehicle has been modified by requiring the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to create guidelines outlining when ADAS must be calibrated and procedures clarifying the procedures for calibrating these systems. Click here to send a letter to your U.S. Representative requesting that they support this important bill. 

"King of the Hammers is more than a world-class off-road event--it is a showcase of the innovation, craftsmanship, and community that define the High Desert," said Rep. Obernolte. "Every year, it brings jobs, tourism, and national attention to our region, supporting local businesses and highlighting the deep connection between motorsports and American manufacturing. It was a pleasure to join organizers, competitors, and fans at this year’s event and to witness that impact firsthand." 

For additional information, contact Eric Snyder, SEMA's senior director of federal government affairs, at erics@sema.org.