By Laura Pitts

A sold-out night at the Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles was the perfect backdrop for the launch of WIMNA's SoCal Chapter last week.

Women in Motorsports North America (WIMNA) marked an exciting new chapter last week with the official launch of its Southern California (SoCal) presence. The sold-out event, hosted at the Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles, brought together motorsports professionals, industry leaders and supporters for an evening of networking, recognition and celebration.

Founded in 2022 by motorsports legends Lyn St. James and Beth Paretta, WIMNA is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing, connecting and enabling women across all disciplines of motorsports. The organization has quickly grown its footprint through national summits, mentorship initiatives and regional chapters that provide year-round opportunities for women in local communities.

The WIMNA SoCal launch created space for industry leaders, professionals and enthusiasts to build relationships that drive the future of motorsports.

The launch of the SoCal chapter was spearheaded by WIMNA Executive Director Cindy Sisson and reflects the organization's mission to expand its impact from coast to coast. The sold-out guest list of 110 also underscored the enthusiasm for the group's presence in Southern California, home to a vibrant motorsports market.

"Southern California is home to the best car culture with the best people, and of course, the best weather," said Vicky Martinez, president of the WIMNA SoCal chapter. "Though we may not be Indianapolis or Charlotte, we do have championship racing, impactful industry partners and devoted motorsport enthusiasts here. Together, we will make a positive impact with those we encounter in our region."

F1 Academy driver Courtney Crone was among those recognized at the WIMNA SoCal launch for her impact and dedication to advancing women in the sport.

The evening featured access to Porsche Experience Center amenities, and attendees were encouraged to connect, exchange ideas and share their passion for motorsports. Four outstanding women were recognized for their contributions to the sport:

• Courtney Crone, F1 Academy driver and one of only three Americans to compete in the global development series.
• Erin Vogel, sports car racer turned team owner with AERO Victory Racing.
• Lindsay Brewer, professional driver competing in Lamborghini Super Trofeo with Rafa Racing.
• Melissa Wahe, founder of CarmaCare and recipient of the 2025 SHEro Award.

"When I first came into the industry, there weren't many women to take me under their wing," Wahe said. "That's why I started CarmaCare--to give women the foundation and confidence they need, whether it's adjusting tire pressures, changing a flat or preparing for the race track. My mission is simple: women-led automotive education for everyone."

The Porsche Experience Center offered an inspiring backdrop for the gathering, setting the tone for a night that celebrated progress and possibility. With WIMNA chapters now established across the country, the organization continues to create spaces where women can learn, collaborate and thrive in motorsports.

Porsche heritage set the stage as WIMNA celebrated a new era of opportunity for women in motorsports at the SoCal launch.

"Now that we have launched [the SoCal WIMNA chapter], we will be reaching out to build our team with volunteers, seeking talented leaders from across the region to contribute to the chapter and support this undeniable momentum," said Martinez. "We are also looking forward to the NHRA Winter Nationals in Pomona, [California,] as an opportunity for WIMNA SoCal to bring together friends and fans from across the region to grow our advocacy network." 

As the ribbon was cut and the SoCal chapter officially joined WWIMNA's growing network, the night closed on a note of optimism. The launch served as more than a celebration--it was a statement that events like these drive the industry forward, building pathways for the next generation while strengthening the community of women and allies already making an impact in motorsports.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead with WIMNA is the Women With Drive V - Driven by Mobil 1 Summit, set for December 8-10, 2025, in Indianapolis, where the industry will come together to connect, learn and lead.

WIMNA's momentum continues later this year with Women With Drive V - Driven by Mobil 1 Summit, taking place December 8–10, 2025, in Indianapolis on the PRI Show campus. The annual summit draws highly regarded professionals, collegiate students and industry leaders for two days of panels, networking and career-building opportunities.

"This popular annual event is an industry magnet--not to be missed!" said Martinez.

For more information, visit womeninmotorsportsna.com and womenwithdrivesummit.com.

As the ribbon was cut and the SoCal chapter officially joined WWIMNA's growing network, the night closed on a note of optimism.

By SEMA News Editors 

Attendees of the 2025 SEMA Show--November 4-7, Las Vegas--have a powerful new tool to enhance and streamline their experience: the SEMA Show Registration Resource Center.  

The new online dashboard available here is now available exclusively for registered attendees to manage their Show week, providing yet another benefit to registering for the SEMA Show early, in addition to the significant savings. This one-stop-shop location gives Showgoers options to update your registration record, access services like housing to book your hotels, and even add education and special events (like SEMA Fest!) to your itinerary.  

Just log in using your Badge ID (shown in your SEMA Show attendee confirmation email) and the email address you used to register, and you’ll have immediate access to: 

• Update your contact information.  
• Print a receipt of your registration purchase.  
• Add a registration for your spouse.  
• Book a hotel at the guaranteed lowest rates.  
• Add education sessions to your registration record.  
• Add events, like the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, SEMA Industry Awards Honors and SEMA Fest tickets to your record. 
• Print a custom SEMA Show itinerary. 

Don’t miss any opportunities the SEMA Show has to offer--use the Registration Resource Center here today!  

Online registration for qualified professional attendees is only $75 per registrant. Register soon, because on Saturday, September 27, registration both online and on-site will be $100. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. Attendees: Don't forget to use the attendee registration resource center to prep for the 2025 SEMA Show. Learn more here.

Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

For more information about the 2025 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com. Sign up for updates on SEMA Fest at semafest.com.

For questions and SEMA Show registration assistance, call 508-743-8571, Monday–Friday 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. ET, or email AAPEXSEMA@maritz.com. 

By SEMA News Editors

JEGS

Street Fighter Carburetors

JEGS has introduced the new Street Fighter Carburetor Series, engineered for street machines, musclecars and performance-minded daily drivers, the new line offers a combination of reliability, ease of use and high-performance features, according to the manufacturer.

These four-barrel carburetors feature multiple CFM options, single fuel feed, electric choke and universal linkage. Installation is easy and fits on any intake manifold with a square-bore bolt pattern.

jegs.com

Synergy Manufacturing

'94-Plus Ram Steering Box Brace

Upgrade your steering for your '94-plus RAM 1500, 2500 or 3500 with the new Ram Steering Box Brace from Synergy Manufacturing. Engineered specifically for that model, the new brace ties the front frame horns together and supports the steering box sector shaft with a high-quality sealed pillow bearing, eliminating steering box flex, according to Synergy.

This bolt-on solution significantly reduces play in the steering wheel, improves overall handling and relieves stress on these failure-prone components.

synergymfg.com

Fab Fours

'24 Toyota Land Cruiser Rear Bumper and Matrix Series Front Winch Bumper

The '24 Toyota Land Cruiser Premium Rear Bumper and Matrix Series Front Winch Bumper with Full Guard from Fab Fours are crafted from premium U.S. steel and are made in the United States. The rear bumper delivers aggressive styling and trail-ready durability, while up front, the all-new Matrix Series Front Winch Bumper gives you the peak of style and utility, making your Land Cruiser ready for any adventure, the manufacturer says.

fabfours.com

Overland Vehicle Systems

Wheel Spacers

Overland Vehicle Systems (OVS) has released new wheel spacer to enhance vehicle stance, stability and off-road capability, according to the company.

Manufactured from forged 6061-T6 aluminum, the OVS Wheel Spacers provide superior strength while maintaining a lightweight profile, according to the manufacturer. Each spacer features a Type-II anodized finish for enhanced corrosion resistance and comes equipped with Geomet-coated 4135 chromoly steel wheel studs for maximum reliability in rugged conditions.

overlandvehiclesystems.com

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.