Thu, 05/07/2026 - 11:39

By SEMA News Editors

 

An image of the Exhibitor Summit graphic.

 

Registration is now open for the SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, which returns to Las Vegas in June, at the Las Vegas Convention Center South Hall Skybridge. View the agenda and register at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit.

 

The Exhibitor Summit--which takes place Wednesday, June 10 and Thursday, June 11, with hotel check-out Friday, June 12--is an exhibitor's strategic head start. Whether a company is a first-timer or a seasoned exhibitor, this event is where exhibitors can refine their plan, cut unnecessary costs and unlock true SEMA Show success. The program will cover how to:

  • Boost ROI: Work directly with experts to plan, budget and optimize SEMA Show investments.
  • Drive Traffic: Learn proven strategies to attract buyers and generate leads.
  • Save Money: Learn insider strategies to cut costs on drayage, electrical and rigging.
  • Perfect Your Launch: Get a step-by-step roadmap for product launches and media engagement.
  • Promote Your Brand: Explore sponsorship and marketing opportunities to increase brand visibility.
  • Network: Build direct relationships with the SEMA team and fellow industry leaders.

 

Preview the New LVCC

 

In addition, this year's Summit delivers an all-access preview of the newly remodeled Las Vegas Convention Center, now featuring a modernized campus designed to elevate the exhibitor and attendee experience with:

 

  • A reimagined Central Hall Grand Lobby that features a striking glass curtain wall and abundant natural light.
  • New digital signage creating high-visibility branding opportunities in the Grand Lobby.
  • A climate-controlled concourse that connects the North and South Halls.
  • A new East entrance, state-of-the-art boardroom and modern administrative offices redefine the South Hall.
  • The extended West Hall ribbon roof brings bold cohesion across the campus.

 

Register to join this event in Las Vegas this June, and the SEMA team will have the rest covered. Exhibitors enjoy complimentary event registration, a two-night hotel stay (for up to two representatives from each exhibiting company) and select meals--all courtesy of SEMA.

 

View the agenda and register at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit.

 

Have questions about the Exhibitor Summit? Contact SEMA Show Management at 909-396-0289 or email regmgr@sema.org.


If you haven't heard, SEMA has launched a new customer management system ahead of this year's SEMA Show, November 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas. Read more about that here, or visit semashow.com/exhibitor.

 

Thu, 05/07/2026 - 06:43

By Ashley Reyes

Graphic for MPMC Company spotlight subject Holland Communications.

 

The SEMA Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) named Holland Communications as the council's newest member spotlight company.  

Get to know the company's story in the SEMA News interview with Holland Communications President Bill Holland below.
 

SEMA News: Tell us about your company. 

Bill Holland: Holland Communications Inc. is a full-service advertising and public relations agency specializing in the performance aftermarket. It was founded in 1974 and has been a SEMA member since 1975. We are very self-reliant and do virtually everything from creating ads to producing videos in-house.
 

SN: What makes your business stand out?  

BH: As hands-on enthusiasts ourselves we "walk the walk and talk the talk." This gives us the ability to communicate well with the market on their level.
 

SN: Tell us about your business now in 2026 and what you're focused on?  

BH: We have seen a paradigm shift over the years in how marketing messages are delivered and consumed. Where print ads in enthusiast publications once sufficed, today there is huge emphasis on social media. We're also exploring the benefits of AI.
 

SN: Tell us about a project you are proud of.  

BH: Currently I'm building a restomod '74 TVR 2500M sports car powered by a 5.0L Ford Coyote engine. It will be street legal but built to compete in a variety of venues (autocross, drags, speed trials, etc.). It's extremely gratifying to see something grow from an idea into a tangible product.
 

SN: What advice do you have for young professionals contemplating a career in the automotive aftermarket? 

BH: I spent many years on the SEMA Scholarship Committee and helped raise a considerable amount of money to help young professionals in our industry. Accordingly, I've encouraged young people to take advantage of SEMA's scholarship and loan forgiveness programs. Early on I served as a crew member on several race teams--starting as a proverbial "tire wiper" and advancing in responsibilities. Ultimately, I became a partner in several race cars. Through racing, I made many valuable connections. It's a great way to advance one's career in the aftermarket.

 


 

Fill out an MPMC member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the motorsports industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on MPMC's social media, SEMA News and future MPMC member updates. 

Thu, 05/07/2026 - 06:14

By SEMA News Editors

SBN Booth Experience graphic.

 

To help deliver an empowering 2026 SEMA Show experience--November 3-6, Las Vegas--for women in the automotive aftermarket, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is inviting companies, brands and women-owned businesses to apply to become booth partners for 2026. The deadline to apply is Sunday, May 10.

Button to apply for SBN booth experience.


 

If your organization is dedicated to advancing women in the automotive aftermarket, the SBN Booth Experience is your chance to take those efforts to the next level. If selected as a booth partner, you'll receive dedicated space within the booth to host engaging activations, hands-on-workshops, live demonstrations and meaningful networking opportunities throughout the week.   
 

Why Become a Partner?   
 

  • Boost Brand Visibility: Gain exposure for your women-owned brand at the world's premier trade show for the automotive aftermarket. (Manufacturing companies must be exhibitors at the SEMA Show.)
  • Network with Women Leaders: Connect with influential women across market segments and foster meaningful relationships. 
  • Highlight Your Women-Driven Initiatives: Host interactive experiences, educational workshops or discussions that showcase your company's expertise and industry contributions. 
  • Champion a Positive Cause: Demonstrate your company's commitment to advancing women in the automotive aftermarket. 
  • Engage With Top Talent: Meet skilled women in the automotive industry and possibly recruit your next great hire.


Is Your Brand a Good Fit?
 

To amplify SBN's mission of providing education, networking and recognition opportunities to professional women in the specialty-equipment industry, partnering organizations must be:
 

  • An active SEMA member company
  • Female-owned or -operated
  • Dedicated to supporting women in the automotive aftermarket
  • Available during all Show hours to represent your company/organization at the booth


If this sounds like you, don't miss this opportunity to position your brand alongside a community committed to driving progress and expanding opportunities for women across the industry. Apply today.
 

To learn more about SBN, visit www.sema.org/sbn.

Thu, 05/07/2026 - 01:21

By SEMA News Editors

 

V8 Speed & Resto Shop Opens New Engine and Machine Shop

 

A wide shot of the new V8 Speed and Resto Shop engine and machine shop.

 

V8 Speed & Resto Shop, a classic and musclecar restoration shop located in Red Bud, Illinois, has opened a new in-house engine and machine shop facility as it enters its 22nd year of operations. 
 

This addition transforms the award-winning restoration shop into a comprehensive, one-stop destination for automotive enthusiasts, offering everything from factory-original engine rebuilds to 1,000-plus hp custom powerplants, company representatives said. 
 

The new engine machine shop was designed to provide total quality control over every stage of the engine-building process. By bringing machining, assembly and testing entirely in-house, V8 Speed & Resto shop ensures that every component meets stringent specifications and aesthetic standards that match the high quality of their entire organization. 
 

"By controlling the process from the first sonic check of the block to the final dyno-tuning session, we deliver a level of precision and reliability that is sometimes lost when outsourcing," stated V8 Speed & Resto shop CEO Kelle Oeste. "And having a top-level body and paint shop in-house, we can deliver custom engines, run-in and baseline tuned, show-quality finished, and ready to drop into restorations or show cars. This makes us a great B2B outsource for high-end shops building SEMA Show cars that need a one-stop custom engine solution."  
 

Beyond complete engine builds, the facility provides à la carte machining services, including flywheel surfacing, valve jobs, block boring and parts cleaning. A key feature of the V8 Speed & Resto process is the focus on the customer journey; clients receive regular photo and video updates of milestone moments, including the first startup and leak-verification sessions on a dedicated test stand. 
 

This expansion solidifies V8 Speed & Resto Shop's position as a leader in the classic car and muscle car industry, combining traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge performance engineering, the shop said.
 

For more information, visit v8speedshop.com.

 

Fat Fender Garage Launches Dedicated Chassis Division

 

Fat Fender Garage welder working on a chassis.

 

Fat Fender Garage, the Gilbert, Arizona, custom truck builder and parts manufacturer, has launched Fat Fender Chassis, a new division under the Fat Fender Garage umbrella dedicated to engineering and crafting complete two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive chassis.
 

The chassis packages are designed for classic Ford trucks and engineered to handle modern performance with the same level of detail and craftsmanship Fat Fender Garage is known for, the company said.
 

"We've spent over a decade building custom chassis for classic trucks, and with this move, we're bringing all of that knowledge in-house," said Jason Noel, CEO of Fat Fender Garage. "With Fat Fender Chassis, we're vertically integrating our process to engineer and manufacture our own foundations, ensuring every build meets our exact standards." 
 

To meet the growing demand, Fat Fender Garage has invested heavily in state-of-the-art manufacturing tools and technologies, including a 4,000-watt CNC laser cutter and four fully equipped fabrication stations, to ensure the precision, reliability and unmatched craftsmanship Fat Fender Garage is known for. 
 

The chassis will be available in two- and four-wheel-drive configurations, as well as bare-metal frames for those looking to tailor the chassis to their exact specifications. Rollout will start with classic Ford trucks before expanding to Chevy trucks, with options for ABS, traction control and active suspension available later. Designations and offerings include: 
 

Two-Wheel Drive:

  • FF Street--Coilover Chassis: A subtle ride height adjustment, keeping your vehicle's classic charm intact, while offering a smoother ride and sharper driving dynamics. 
  • FF Sport--Coilover Chassis: An aggressive drop in ride height for high-performance driving and aesthetics. 
  • FF Air--Air Suspension Chassis: The ultimate in low, customization and a smooth ride. 


Four-Wheel Drive 

  • FF 4x4: Standard (six-lug) 
  • FF 4x4: Heavy Duty (eight-lug)


Each chassis is engineered for specific model years and powertrain configurations.


For more information, visit FatFenderGarage.com.

 

I-CAR Opens Call for 2026 Board of Directors Candidates

 

I-CAR is now accepting applications for its 2026 Board of Directors election, the organization announced.


"Strong governance is vitally important to the future of I-CAR and the industry we serve," said I-CAR President and CEO Kyle Thompson. "We invite experienced, mission-driven leaders to consider bringing their perspective to the I-CAR Board of Directors and hope to be in the fortunate position of providing our voting members with a strong slate of diverse candidates."


Board members serve three-year terms and play a critical role in guiding I-CAR's strategic direction. The board is committed to advancing strategies that realize its vision of ensuring every person in the collision repair industry has the information, knowledge, and skills required to perform complete, safe and quality repairs.


The board seeks a slate of candidates that reflect diversity and a broad range of industry perspectives. Candidates should demonstrate proven leadership, industry influence and a strong understanding of and commitment to I-CAR's mission and inter-industry model, organization representatives said.
 

For more information on open board seats, how to apply and more, visit i-car.com/governance.

 

Kahn Media Receives Creative, Business Awards

 

Kahn Media Hermes Awards

 

Kahn Media, a marketing agency specializing in the automotive, outdoor and lifestyle markets, received two Hermes Creative Awards: a Platinum Award for its content creator-led coverage of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering and a Gold Award for its white paper on how firearms brands can be discovered without advertising. A Stevie American Business Award was also granted to Kahn Media for its extensive email marketing campaign with Heidts.
 

"We are extremely pleased to receive these honors from the Hermes Creative Awards and the Stevie American Business Awards," said Kahn Media President and CEO Dan Kahn. "In 2026, we have worked tirelessly to build our teams with the best employees, expand our innovative services and deliver even more value to our clients. These prestigious awards validate those efforts, and I look forward to even further growth this year."
 

Kahn Media's received the Hermes Creative Awards Platinum Awar, in the Social Media and Creator Content/Social Campaign category for its influencer-led coverage of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. As an exclusive events at Monterey Car Week that is limited to 6,000 in-person guests, the Kahn Media campaign expanded the event's reach far beyond the physical venue, the company said. Kahn Media developed and executed a comprehensive social media campaign that combined strategic creator partnerships, real-time event coverage and collaborative content with automotive brands and participants. The results significantly expanded The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering's digital footprint, organically adding more than 10,000 social media followers in three weeks and generating more than 40 collaboration posts with multiple creators and brands.
 

Kahn Media was also honored with a Stevie American Business Award for its email marketing efforts for Heidts, a manufacturer of chassis and suspension components for hot rods and musclecars. After performing a full audit of Heidts' marketing efforts, Kahn Media developed a scalable, data-driven email marketing campaign to create a new owned channel to drive direct sales, foster repeat purchases and strengthen customer relations. Using a combination of automated and bespoke emails modernized Heidts' marketing efforts, resulting in a 700% month-to-month increase in online revenue and a 2,000% ROI. Email marketing also accounted for 80% of the company's total revenue.
 

For more information, visit kahnmedia.com.

 

Tue, 05/05/2026 - 22:59

By SEMA News Editors

 

An image of the SEMA Fest stage and big crowds.

 

SEMA Fest––which has featured chart-topping headliners Imagine Dragons, Cage the Elephant, Sublime and Queens of the Stone Age––returns to Las Vegas on Friday, November 6, for a high-energy night of motorsports, music and car culture. Tickets are now on sale.

 

"You combine the drifting and the music, you have a perfect event," said Pilar Colmenero of La Oxidada, Saladillo, Argentina. 

 

Yes, it's the ultimate "exclamation point" to your SEMA week.

 

Industry members can purchase tickets now at the lowest available price before the 2026 lineup is announced.

 

An image of drifting at SEMA Fest.

 

Non-industry friends and family can purchase tickets now at SEMAFest.com, along with passes for the one-day "SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public," a bucket-list experience for automotive enthusiasts.

 

On Friday, November 6, SEMA Fest will combine live music with high-impact motorsports activations on the SEMA Show campus, delivering a one-of-a-kind experience that blends performance, entertainment and car culture.

 

Beyond the entertainment, SEMA Fest connects the industry with the enthusiast public, giving builders and manufacturers a platform to engage directly with consumers who influence trends and purchasing decisions.

 

It also reflects SEMA's commitment to evolving its events––blending business, culture and community to keep the aftermarket at the forefront of innovation.

 

An image of the Globe of Death at SEMA Fest.

 

Bands will be announced in summer 2026.

 

Buy tickets now through the SEMA Registration Resource Center or at SEMAFest.com. Sign up there for updates on the 2026 lineup. For partnership opportunities, contact info@semafest.com.

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6 in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration opens on May 4; to sign up for notifications, visit semashow.com.

 

Tue, 05/05/2026 - 20:36

By Ashley Reyes

Graphic for the SBN virtual wine tasting.

 

There's still time for women in the automotive aftermarket to sign up for the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Virtual Wine Tasting & Networking Night taking place Thursday, May 7, at 4:00 p.m. PT/7:00 p.m. ET.

Button to register for SBN Wine Tasting.

 

SBN is committed to delivering engaging programming that supports the professional growth of its members. Designed as a relaxed, interactive networking event, this session will help women build their professional connections while taking part in meaningful conversations and learning the basics of wine in a simple, accessible format.  
 

Reasons to join:

  • Engage in authentic networking with women of various careers.
  • Build your networking skills in a social and professional setting.
  • Learn about wine tasting techniques, wine etiquette, grape varieties and flavor profiles that you can utilize in real-world scenarios.
  • Gain career insights from a supportive network focused on helping women grow and succeed.


The wine tasting will be led by Kelsy Hill, owner of KelsyKate, LLC, co-owner at blipshift, chief marketing officer of Raglan Motors and head of operations at HyperFest; and Cora Jokinen, president of Torq-Masters Industries.
 

Whether you're already an SBN member or curious about joining, this event will open the door to valuable career insights from a women-led, passion-driven network.
 

SBN will provide a list of wines for attendees to purchase ahead of time. The list will include wines that are readily available nationwide and that are under $20 each.
 

Secure your spot.

Tue, 05/05/2026 - 13:02

By SEMA News Editors

Brembo

Sensify by Brembo

 

Brembo by Sensify rendering in a vehicle.

 

Brembo has announced that Sensify has entered production for a leading global vehicle manufacturer. Sensify is fitted as standard on 100% of the vehicles in the program, confirming the platform's readiness for full industrial deployment.

 

Designed as a scalable and adaptable solution, Sensify is engineered to support a wide range of advanced vehicle architectures, from next-generation driver-assistance systems to fully autonomous applications.

 

Sensify was born as a fluid-free architecture that distributes intelligence at the wheel level, removing hydraulic circuits and centralized actuation. This innovative approach enables accurate and continuous modulation of braking forces, supporting stable and control-led vehicle behaviour in complex and highly variable driving conditions, enhancing peace of mind.

 

brembo.com/en/sensify

 

 

Perfect Carbon

Perfect Carbon Ceramic Wash

 

An image of the Perfect Carbon Ceramic Wash on a vehicle spoiler.

 

Perfect Carbon has introduced the new Perfect Carbon Ceramic Wash, a premium car shampoo specifically engineered to maintain, protect and enhance the performance of a Perfect Carbon ceramic coating.

 

Designed for enthusiasts and professionals alike, this advanced formula is designed to deliver a superior clean while actively reinforcing the protective properties that define the Perfect Carbon finish.

 

Key Benefits:

  • SiO₂-Infused Protection – Boosts your coating with every wash, restoring water-beading performance and enhancing gloss and slickness.
  • Coating-Safe Formula – pH-balanced and residue-free, designed to clean without stripping or dulling ceramic protection.
  • Rich Foaming Action – Thick, lubricated suds safely encapsulate contaminants, minimizing the risk of swirl marks and wash-induced marring.
  • Hydrophobic Enhancement – Revives the signature Perfect Carbon water-shedding effect after every wash.
  • Versatile Application – Ideal for both traditional bucket washes and foam cannon use, delivering a professional-grade detailing experience anywhere.

 

Perfect Carbon Ceramic Car Wash is available now through authorized Perfect Carbon distributors and online retailers.

 

perfectcarbon.com

 

Tue, 05/05/2026 - 12:26

By SEMA News Editors 

 

An image of a drifting Mustang at the SEMA Show.

 

Attendee registration for the 2026 SEMA Show is officially open

 

Set for November 3-6 in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show delivers an attendee experience unlike any other, bringing together thousands of world-class vehicle displays alongside even more of the newest automotive aftermarket products from both emerging and established exhibitors.  

 

The SEMA Show floor serves as the ultimate destination for automotive professionals of all experience levels, backgrounds and areas of focus to convene, share insights and ideas and conduct business for four days straight. 

 

How to Register for the 2026 SEMA Show 

 

Approved attendees can register for a SEMA Show badge at the lowest available rate ($50 per badge) until pricing increases (to $75 per badge) after June 26.

 

In short, the sooner an attendee registers for the SEMA Show, the more they save. But, early registrants can also get a head start on their SEMA Show plan, with access to the Registration Resource Center to print receipts, register a spouse, book hotels, reserve a spot in one of dozens of educational sessions, purchase tickets to events like SEMA Fest, the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, SEMA Industry Honors and more.

 

REGISTER button.

 

 

How to Save on Your 2026 SEMA Show Hotel Reservations 

 

Hotel reservations are open through SEMA's only official housing partner, onPeak. Bookings made in the official SEMA Show block are eligible for hotel loyalty and member programs and are guaranteed to be the lowest possible prices available. That's right: organizers will price-match if you happen to find a lower rate, so there's no downside to booking within the official SEMA Show hotel block at semashow.com/hotel

 

Book Here button.

 

How to Save on Airfare to Las Vegas for the SEMA Show

 

SEMA Show organizers know travel costs can add up, which is why they've partnered with several airlines to offer exclusive discounts for attendees heading to the 2026 SEMA Show. 

 

With these deals from exclusive SEMA Show partners––detailed at the link below––attendees can take advantage of airfare savings while planning their trip to the industry's premier automotive aftermarket event. 

 

Get Discounts button.

 

SEMA Fest is Back in 2026

 

SEMA Fest, which has featured headliners Imagine Dragons, Cage the Elephant, Sublime and Queens of the Stone Age, will return to Las Vegas on Friday, November 6, with motorsports, music and car culture. 

 

Tickets are available now for industry members at the lowest available price ahead of the 2026 lineup announcement. Qualified SEMA Show attendees can add SEMA Fest tickets directly through the Registration Resource Center when securing a Show badge.

 

Non-industry friends and family can purchase tickets now at SEMAFest.com, along with passes for the one-day "SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public," a bucket-list experience for automotive enthusiasts.

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee, buyer and media registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com

 

Tue, 05/05/2026 - 12:08

By SEMA News Editors

 

An image of Mike Anderson and an image of Jeff Hermann.

 

The following candidates are vying for a seat on the SEMA Board of Directors:

 

Board Seat Candidates (1 Seat)

  • Mike Anderson, Collision Advice
  • Jeff Hermann, MagnaFlow Group

 

Voting will take place online now through May 26 and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company's primary contact. Details on the upcoming election will be sent to the member company's designated primary contact. Winners will be announced by June 9.

 

Learn more about the candidates.

 

Want to vote but not yet a SEMA member? Learn more at sema.org/membership-business.

 

Got a Question? Reach Out

Call: 240-ASK-SEMA (240-275-7362)
Email: customercare@sema.org

 

Tue, 05/05/2026 - 11:50

By SEMA News Editors

An aerial view of Las Vegas hotels.

 

Housing reservations are now open for the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas, including several new hotels, available at the lowest possible rates through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak

Button to book SEMA Show hotel.


When securing your SEMA Show stay, there are plenty of ways to save. If you're driving to Vegas for the aftermarket's premier industry event, you can cash in on free parking at these hotels when you book through onPeak:

Hotel Nightly Rate
Downtown Grand $172
Golden Nugget $190
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Strip $282
Palace Station $167
Palms $264
Plaza $166
Rio $172
Sahara $278

 

SEMA Show and onPeak offer attendees and exhibitors the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas, as well as numerous other benefits for Showgoers. Skip the hours of searching online and book directly through onPeak--but don't wait! Visit semashow.com/hotel as early as possible to lock in the best available rates. 

 


 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee, buyer and media registration is now open. For more information, visit semashow.com