Thu, 10/29/2026 - 07:41

Sponsored by Race Ramps

Race Ramps
 
After their facility was destroyed by a blaze in October 2025, Race Ramps was forced to rebuild from the ground up. They emerged stronger, sharper and ready for action.

 

In the fall of last year, Race Ramps faced one of the greatest challenges in their history when a devastating fire took out their manufacturing facility in Escanaba, Michigan. The loss had a significant impact.

Although it was the end of a long chapter, it was not the closing of the book. The fire forced them to reforge every part of their business, and it quickly became apparent that there was one factor that could not, and would not, be affected: Their commitment to quality, innovation and the customers who have supported them every step of the way.

More than 20 years ago, Race Ramp pioneered the product category for lightweight solid foam ramps and was proud to set the standard with their award-winning automotive loading and service solutions.

The commitment to building products that customers trust wasn't extinguished by the fire; it became the foundation for the decisions that followed.

 

Race Ramps Fire

 

"The fire didn't consume us. It tempered us."

Much like steel, Race Ramps tempered under the intense heat of adversity and came out stronger and more determined than ever. They weren't simply replicating their old business; they were forging a better one.

Race Ramps took on the challenge of rebuilding from the ground up and asked themselves the question, "What can we improve?" The answer: modernizing their manufacturing operations and strategically relocating closer to their headquarters in Germantown, Wisconsin, for faster, more efficient shipping.

The new manufacturing process allowed them to invest in even higher quality materials and refine every step of production, all with the goal of delivering better performance, refined craftsmanship, and the durability that their customers have come to expect. They didn't want to merely come back. They wanted to continue being the leader that customers depend on for premium solid foam automotive solutions.

 

Race Ramps manufacturing

 

Today, Race Ramps remains committed to American manufacturing and thoughtful engineering. They continue to deliver quality products that make loading, lifting and working around vehicles safer and more efficient.

Most importantly, Race Ramps remains committed to the people who helped them get here. Their customers, dealers, partners and supporters stood with them through an incredibly difficult part of their story. Their encouragement gave the team another reason to keep moving forward and reminded them why the work matters.

 

Partnering With Mac's Custom Tie-Downs at the 2026 SEMA Show
Race Ramps and Mac's Tie-Downs

 

Mac's Custom Tie-Downs is joining the Race Ramps booth this year at SEMA. A natural fit for auto customers looking for the best tie-down solutions for the vehicles they load and transport, Mac's has more than 30 years of experience in the automotive and powersports industry. In fact, many exhibitors have used Mac's straps in their booths at SEMA in previous years. Mac's Custom Tie-Dowms hand-sews straps for customers all over the United States and has the same pride in their workmanship that is visible in all Race Ramps products.

 

Come check out their products in action at 2026 SEMA Show

Experience the next chapter of Race Ramps firsthand at the 2026 SEMA Show! Visit them in Central Hall, Booth #20047, to see innovative products in action and discover how they are coming back stronger than ever to help you load, lift and protect the vehicles you love. The company can't wait to reconnect with the automotive community and show you what's ahead!

Built for professionals. Trusted by everyone.

 

Thu, 10/29/2026 - 07:18

By SEMA News Editors

Attendees at SEMA

 

The 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) in Las Vegas, is nearly here. Before heading to the automotive aftermarket's premier industry event, attendees can use a variety of tools and resources to plan their schedules, find exhibitors, discover new products and prepare for arrival. (Still need to register for the 2026 SEMA Show? Get started here).

 

Download the Official 2026 SEMA Show Mobile App

SEMA Show mobile app schedule

The SEMA Show mobile app is a must-have for exhibitors and attendees looking to maximize their time at the Show. The app puts essential information at users' fingertips, including:

  • Interactive floorplans and turn-by-turn directions: Find exhibitor booths and navigate the LVCC without GPS or a cellular signal.
  • Exhibitor listings: Search companies by name, Show section or product category.
  • Personalized schedules: Keep track of education sessions, networking events, vehicle reveals and other activities.
  • New Products Showcase: Preview new products, review photos and details, and identify where products and their manufacturers are located.
  • Show updates and transportation information: Access official SEMA Show social media accounts and information about getting to and from the LVCC.

Download the SEMA Show app.

 

SEMA Show Floorplan: Find Exhibitors and Booths

The SEMA Show website is the central hub for planning and navigating the event. Attendees can use the interactive floorplan to locate exhibitors and booth on the Show floor.

 

Registration Resource Center: Manage SEMA Show Itineraries

Registered attendees can use the Registration Resource Center to update contact information, print registration receipts, add a spouse's registration, register for education sessions and purchase tickets to special events. Attendees can also print a custom SEMA Show itinerary to organize their schedules.

 

Know Before You Go: SEMA Show Badge Pickup

Attendees can pick up their 2026 SEMA Show badges at the West Hall Express Registration or Lower South Hall Main Registration (on the East side of the building) of the LVCC.

What to bring and know before arriving:

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID: A driver's license or passport is acceptable. Copies, photos and digital versions of IDs will not be accepted.
  • Match your registration: The name on your ID must match the name on your badge. Attendees may only collect their own badges.
  • Already received your badge by mail? If you lose your mailed badge, you can get it reprinted on-site for a fee. Standard attendee and buyer badges are $100.
  • Not registered yet? On-site registration is available at the Main Registration area in the Lower South Hall of the LVCC. Lines may be lengthy, so online registration is encouraged. Attendees registering on-site must also bring qualification documentation and a government-issued photo ID.

For additional details, visit the 2026 SEMA Show Attendee FAQ.

 

Bessie: The 2026 SEMA Show AI Chatbot

Ask Bessie chat thread.

Need help finding Show information? Bessie, the SEMA Show's AI-powered chatbot, is available 24/7 to answer frequently asked questions and help attendees access information throughout the event.

Connect with Bessie by texting 833-338-3101, using the SEMA Show mobile app, visiting SEMAShow.com or scanning a QR code located throughout the LVCC campus.

Before arriving at the 2026 SEMA Show, download the mobile app, review the interactive floorplan and save the Registration Resource Center for quick access to registration and itinerary tools.


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 is open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, the Registration Resource Center, or the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan.  

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.  

Tue, 10/27/2026 - 16:22

 By SEMA News Editors

Image of an unveiling at the SEMA Show.

 

With the 2026 SEMA Show approaching November 3-6 in Las Vegas, exhibitors are announcing new automotive products, vehicle builds, partnerships and other company news ahead of the event.

The SEMA Show Exhibitor Press Release portal brings these announcements together in one place, helping attendees, buyers and media discover the latest news before the Show.

Read the latest from 2026 SEMA Show exhibitors at semashow.com/press.

 

Latest 2026 SEMA Show Exhibitor News and Product Announcements

Visit the SEMA Show Exhibitor Press Release portal for additional product announcements, company news and updates as the 2026 SEMA Show approaches.

 

Exhibitors: Want to Announce Company News?

Exhibitors can submit press releases to the SEMA Show Online Media Center to share product launches, company announcements and other Show-related news with journalists and industry media.

Submit a press release at semashow.com/press-release.


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 is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, the Registration Resource Center, or the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan.  

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.   

Tue, 10/27/2026 - 13:57

Small But Rugged: Land Rover 'Baby' Defender

Land Rover Baby Defender prototype

 

Land Rover has quite a few novelties that have just arrived or are on the way, and the 'baby' Defender with an all-electric powertrain is one of the major ones. For the Land Rover Defender series, which is actually the top-grossing model line ahead of the Range Rover series, the British automaker has big plans: It will push back the full-size Defender EV until the next decade, introduce the new Defender-based military vehicles collectively called the Wolf Series II and reportedly include a Land Rover Defender pickup truck as the first collaborative creation in the JLR-Stellantis deal to build its models in the United States.

Meanwhile, the rumor mill and our spy photographer are also busy figuring out what to expect from the upcoming 'baby' Land Rover Defender, allegedly named the Defender Sport or Defender 80. The British carmaker initially devised the new model, a compact five-door take on the popular nameplate, as an all-electric-only model but has since changed its mind and will also launch it as a hybrid, albeit potentially later, just as it plans to do with the Range Rover GT.

Land Rover Baby Defender

 

The smaller version of the iconic Land Rover Defender might directly clash with the upcoming 'baby' Mercedes-Benz G-Class, so it will be interesting to see which one goes on sale first. So far, the new model has been spied testing on multiple occasions, and our latest encounter with the SUV comes courtesy of Land Rover, which is currently testing several 'baby' Defender prototypes at the Nürburgring in Germany.

The prototype wears mind-bending vinyl stickers with pride, aiming to confuse onlookers about its details. The last time the 'baby' Defender was spied, it wore a spare tire on the back, a telltale sign that the smallest Defender yet won't abandon its adventure-SUV roots anytime soon.

Land Rover Baby Defender prototype.

 

As for the design, the 'baby' Land Rover Defender will likely shed more of its camouflage in the coming weeks, as the company might preview it as early as spring 2027.

 

Bigger and More Efficient Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

 

Kia is currently working on the next generation of the Sportage (NQ6), and here is a batch of photos of a spied prototype undergoing testing.

Hyundai and Kia are twin South Korean automakers, and both have been tremendously expanding their lineups, including electrified models. However, their bread and butter remain the best-selling Tucson and Sportage compact crossover SUVs.

Kia Sportage prototype

 

The fifth-generation NQ5 Kia Sportage was introduced in the summer of 2021 and also received a mid-cycle refresh for the '26 model year, which was much more pronounced than the Hyundai Tucson's. But as it turns out, our spy photographer has discovered that Kia is also working on the all-new NQ6 generation. Kia might be in a hurry to have it ready for a reveal sometime next year, potentially during the final months of the year. The best-selling Kia, a "model that enjoys immense global popularity," according to our spy shooter, will also get a completely new design, most likely in line with the latest releases, such as the second-generation Telluride and the all-new Seltos.

Kia Sportage prototype

 

It's also going to be larger and more practical, judging by the boxier profile and the massive rear console. The rumor mill expects Kia to forgo pure internal combustion engine (ICE) models in favor of mild-hybrid (MHEV), hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, at least in Europe.

The next-generation Sportage could also receive Kia's latest hybrid system, which is expected to deliver significant improvements in both performance and fuel efficiency. The goal would be to boost vehicle performance through increased battery capacity and engine output. Additionally, the plug-in hybrid variant could offer an all-electric range of up to 62 miles in a bid to provide greater flexibility for both city and highway driving.

 

 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Tue, 10/27/2026 - 13:32

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show Registration.

 

Attending the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas? Here's what attendees need to know about registration, badge pickup and required identification before arriving at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC).

Where to Pick Up Your SEMA Show Badge

Attendees can pick up their 2026 SEMA Show badges at the West Hall or Lower South Hall (on the east side of the building) of the LVCC.

Before arriving, attendees must:

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID: A driver's license or passport is acceptable. Copies, photos and digital versions of IDs will not be accepted.
  • Make sure registration information matches: The name on the ID must match the name on the badge. Attendees may only collect their own badges.
  • Allow time for badge pickup: Attendees who have already received their badges by mail should bring them to the Show. Lost mailed badges can be reprinted on-site for a fee. Standard attendee and buyer badges are $100.

How to Register On-Site for the 2026 SEMA Show

Not registered yet? On-site registration is available at the Main Registration area in the Lower South Hall of the LVCC. Lines may be lengthy, so online registration is encouraged.

Attendees registering on-site must bring qualification documentation and a government-issued photo ID.

For additional information, visit the 2026 SEMA Show Attendee FAQ.

Still Deciding Whether to Attend? Here's What Awaits at the 2026 SEMA Show

From custom vehicle builds and hands-on demonstrations to industry competitions and education, the 2026 SEMA Show offers four days of automotive innovation, networking and business opportunities.

Highlights include:

  • Powersports/SxS/Lifestyle: Explore the new West Hall section dedicated to powersports, side-by-sides and adventure lifestyle products.
  • SEMA Battle of the Builders: See top custom builds compete, including the new Bike Builder Shootout.
  • New Products Showcase: Discover thousands of newly introduced automotive aftermarket products in the Lower South Hall.
  • SEMA Education: Get practical business insights and learn about emerging trends, technology and workforce development.
  • SEMA Live: Experience the Show in person at the Central Hall studio or follow livestream coverage throughout Show week.
  • SEMA Industry Honors: Celebrate the people and companies shaping the specialty-equipment industry on Thursday, November 5, at Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

These are just a few of the features planned for the 2026 SEMA Show. Explore more features and activations and register online before heading to Las Vegas.


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 is open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, the Registration Resource Center, or the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan.  

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.   

Tue, 10/27/2026 - 12:21

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show SEMA Cruise.

 

 The 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) in Las Vegas, is nearly here. Before heading to the automotive aftermarket's premier industry event, attendees can use a variety of tools and resources to plan their schedules, find exhibitors, discover new products and prepare for arrival.

 

Download the Official 2026 SEMA Show Mobile App

SEMA Show mobile app schedule

The SEMA Show mobile app is a must-have for exhibitors and attendees looking to maximize their time at the Show. The app puts essential information at users' fingertips, including:

  • Interactive floorplans and turn-by-turn directions: Find exhibitor booths and navigate the LVCC without GPS or a cellular signal.
  • Exhibitor listings: Search companies by name, Show section or product category.
  • Personalized schedules: Keep track of education sessions, networking events, vehicle reveals and other activities.
  • New Products Showcase: Preview new products, review photos and details, and identify where products and their manufacturers are located.
  • Show updates and transportation information: Access official SEMA Show social media accounts and information about getting to and from the LVCC.

Download the SEMA Show app.

 

SEMA Show Floorplan: Find Exhibitors and Booths

The SEMA Show website is the central hub for planning and navigating the event. Attendees can use the interactive floorplan to locate exhibitors and booth on the Show floor.

 

Registration Resource Center: Manage SEMA Show Itineraries

Registered attendees can use the Registration Resource Center to update contact information, print registration receipts, add a spouse's registration, register for education sessions and purchase tickets to special events. Attendees can also print a custom SEMA Show itinerary to organize their schedules.

 

Know Before You Go: SEMA Show Badge Pickup

Attendees can pick up their 2026 SEMA Show badges at the West Hall Express Registration or Lower South Hall Main Registration (on the East side of the building) of the LVCC.

What to bring and know before arriving:

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID: A driver's license or passport is acceptable. Copies, photos and digital versions of IDs will not be accepted.
  • Match your registration: The name on your ID must match the name on your badge. Attendees may only collect their own badges.
  • Already received your badge by mail? If you lose your mailed badge, you can get it reprinted on-site for a fee. Standard attendee and buyer badges are $100.00.
  • Not registered yet? On-site registration is available at the Main Registration area in the Lower South Hall of the LVCC. Lines may be lengthy, so online registration is encouraged. Attendees registering on-site must also bring qualification documentation and a government-issued photo ID.

For additional details, visit the 2026 SEMA Show Attendee FAQ.

 

Bessie: The 2026 SEMA Show AI Chatbot

Ask Bessie chat thread.

Need help finding Show information? Bessie, the SEMA Show's AI-powered chatbot, is available 24/7 to answer frequently asked questions and help attendees access information throughout the event.

Connect with Bessie by texting 833-338-3101, using the SEMA Show mobile app, visiting SEMAShow.com or scanning a QR code located throughout the LVCC campus.

Before arriving at the 2026 SEMA Show, download the mobile app, review the interactive floorplan and save the Registration Resource Center for quick access to registration and itinerary tools.


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 is open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, the Registration Resource Center, or the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan.  

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.  

Tue, 10/27/2026 - 12:21

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show SEMA Cruise.

 

 The 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) in Las Vegas, is nearly here. Before heading to the automotive aftermarket's premier industry event, attendees can use a variety of tools and resources to plan their schedules, find exhibitors, discover new products and prepare for arrival.

 

Download the Official 2026 SEMA Show Mobile App

SEMA Show mobile app schedule

The SEMA Show mobile app is a must-have for exhibitors and attendees looking to maximize their time at the Show. The app puts essential information at users' fingertips, including:

  • Interactive floorplans and turn-by-turn directions: Find exhibitor booths and navigate the LVCC without GPS or a cellular signal.
  • Exhibitor listings: Search companies by name, Show section or product category.
  • Personalized schedules: Keep track of education sessions, networking events, vehicle reveals and other activities.
  • New Products Showcase: Preview new products, review photos and details, and identify where products and their manufacturers are located.
  • Show updates and transportation information: Access official SEMA Show social media accounts and information about getting to and from the LVCC.

Download the SEMA Show app.

 

SEMA Show Floorplan: Find Exhibitors and Booths

The SEMA Show website is the central hub for planning and navigating the event. Attendees can use the interactive floorplan to locate exhibitors and booth on the Show floor.

 

Registration Resource Center: Manage SEMA Show Itineraries

Registered attendees can use the Registration Resource Center to update contact information, print registration receipts, add a spouse's registration, register for education sessions and purchase tickets to special events. Attendees can also print a custom SEMA Show itinerary to organize their schedules.

 

Know Before You Go: SEMA Show Badge Pickup

Attendees can pick up their 2026 SEMA Show badges at the West Hall Express Registration or Lower South Hall Main Registration (on the East side of the building) of the LVCC.

What to bring and know before arriving:

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID: A driver's license or passport is acceptable. Copies, photos and digital versions of IDs will not be accepted.
  • Match your registration: The name on your ID must match the name on your badge. Attendees may only collect their own badges.
  • Already received your badge by mail? If you lose your mailed badge, you can get it reprinted on-site for a fee. Standard attendee and buyer badges are $100.00.
  • Not registered yet? On-site registration is available at the Main Registration area in the Lower South Hall of the LVCC. Lines may be lengthy, so online registration is encouraged. Attendees registering on-site must also bring qualification documentation and a government-issued photo ID.

For additional details, visit the 2026 SEMA Show Attendee FAQ.

 

Bessie: The 2026 SEMA Show AI Chatbot

Ask Bessie chat thread.

Need help finding Show information? Bessie, the SEMA Show's AI-powered chatbot, is available 24/7 to answer frequently asked questions and help attendees access information throughout the event.

Connect with Bessie by texting 833-338-3101, using the SEMA Show mobile app, visiting SEMAShow.com or scanning a QR code located throughout the LVCC campus.

Before arriving at the 2026 SEMA Show, download the mobile app, review the interactive floorplan and save the Registration Resource Center for quick access to registration and itinerary tools.


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 is open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, the Registration Resource Center, or the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan.  

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.  

Tue, 10/27/2026 - 12:15

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Show student program graphic

 

SEMA Show exhibitors still have time to make a lasting impact on the future of the automotive aftermarket by participating in the 2026 SEMA Show Student Program.

Each year, the SEMA Show Student Program invites more than 1,000 college students to the Show to explore the wide range of career paths in the industry, from manufacturing and research and development 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 are:

SEMA Show Student Program Networking Breakfast

Thursday, November 5 | 8:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m. | 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.

Register here.
 

Gear Up Girl Networking Event (Reserved for Women)

Thursday, November 5 | 11:45 a.m.–12:15 p.m. | 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.

Register here. (Scroll down to "SBN")
 

The SEMA Show will be here before you know it. Add these events to your schedule and help shape the future of the industry. Sign up today.

Tue, 10/27/2026 - 10:51

By SEMA News Editors

Las Vegas Convention Center interior

 

Attending the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas? Attendees can get to the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) using complimentary hotel shuttles, the Las Vegas Monorail, the Vegas Loop and other transportation options. Showgoers should review transportation routes, schedules and off-site parking options before arriving.  (Still need to register for the 2026 SEMA Show? Get started here).

 

How to Get to the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas

The main transportation options for the 2026 SEMA Show include complimentary hotel shuttles, the Las Vegas Monorail, the Vegas Loop, taxis, rideshares and public transportation. Parking at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) will be affected by construction, so attendees who plan to drive should research off-site parking options before arriving.

The official SEMA Show transportation guide at semashow.com/transportation includes shuttle information, transportation schedules, Monorail details, rideshare and taxi options, public transit and nearby parking locations.

 

 

SEMA Show 2026 Hotel Shuttles: Routes and Schedule

Complimentary hotel shuttles will operate between participating hotels and the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) during the 2026 SEMA Show. Current schedules include morning service from 7:00–10:30 a.m. PT and afternoon service from 3:30–6:30 p.m. PT Tuesday through Thursday. On Friday, afternoon shuttle service will run from 2:00–5:00 p.m.

An intervenue shuttle will also operate Tuesday through Thursday, November 3–5, from 7 a.m.–6:30 p.m., at 15- to 20-minute intervals. Buses board at the west entrance of Caesars Forum and serve Encore at Wynn Las Vegas, The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino, The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino and Wynn Las Vegas.

To review the latest shuttle schedule and transportation details, including boarding locations, visit the 2026 SEMA Show transportation guide.

 

Vegas Loop at the 2026 SEMA Show: Stations, Tickets and Hours

The Vegas Loop at the LVCC offers fast, free on-campus transportation using Tesla vehicles traveling through underground tunnels. Five passenger stations serve the SEMA Show: South Station, Central Underground Station, Central Plaza Station, West Station and Riviera Station.

Travel between LVCC stations is free.

Rides to public stations outside the LVCC campus require a ticket and, as of October 2026, service is available to Encore, Resorts World, and Westgate hotels.

For ticket prices and purchases, visit lvloop.com/tickets. Operating hours vary by event, so check https://vegasloop.com/?hours=1 for the latest schedule. For group or bulk ticket inquiries, contact ticket-support@lvloop.com.

 

Las Vegas Monorail: Stations, Hours and Discounted Tickets

The Las Vegas Monorail offers a convenient way to reach the LVCC while avoiding street-level traffic. Seven stations connect major Strip destinations with the Convention Center, including MGM Grand, Paris Las Vegas, Caesars Palace, Harrah's/The LINQ, the Convention Center, Westgate and SAHARA.

SEMA Show attendees can purchase discounted fares through the dedicated SEMA 2026 ticket page. Paper tickets are also available at full price from ticket vending machines and customer service desks. Riders can use paperless tickets by scanning their phones at the gate.

The Monorail will operate extended hours during the 2026 SEMA Show week. Current operating hours are (all times PT):

  • Monday: 7:00 a.m.–midnight
  • Tuesday–Thursday: 7:00 a.m.–2:00 a.m.
  • Friday–Sunday: 7:00 a.m.–3:00 a.m.

Monorail riders can also find additional Las Vegas discounts through the system's rider discount program.

 

Where to Park for the 2026 SEMA Show

Attendees who plan to drive should research off-property options in advance. Nearby properties may offer limited parking for a daily fee. Availability, rates and restrictions can change, so contact each property directly before arriving. Oversize vehicle parking should also be confirmed with the property.

Locations listed in semashow.com/transportation include:

  • Piero's Italian Cuisine: 355 Convention Center Drive
  • Westgate: 3000 Paradise Road
  • Residence Inn: 3225 Paradise Road
  • Courtyard Las Vegas: 3275 Paradise Road
  • SpringHill Suites: 2989 Paradise Road
  • Renaissance: 3400 Paradise Road
  • Fontainebleau: 2777 S. Las Vegas Boulevard
  • Embassy Suites: 3600 Paradise Road

Attendees can also check parking apps such as SpotHero and Parkopedia for additional nearby options and potential advance reservations.

 

2026 SEMA Show Transportation FAQs

Is parking available at the Las Vegas Convention Center during the 2026 SEMA Show?

Parking will be impacted by construction at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) during the November 3–6 event. Attendees are encouraged to use hotel shuttles, the Las Vegas Monorail or other transportation options. Limited off-property parking may be available nearby, potentially for a fee.
 

Are hotel shuttles to the SEMA Show free?

Yes. Complimentary shuttle service will connect the LVCC with more than 45 hotels. Visit semashow.com/transportation for the latest schedules, routes and hotel boarding locations.
 

Is the Vegas Loop free during the SEMA Show?

Rides between stations on the LVCC campus are free. Travel to public stations outside the campus, including Encore, Resorts World and Westgate, requires a paid ticket. Visit lvloop.com/tickets for details.
 

Does the Las Vegas Monorail offer discounted SEMA Show tickets?

Yes. SEMA Show attendees can purchase discounted fares at https://tix.lvmonorail.com/SEMA2026. The Monorail will also operate extended hours during Show week.
 

Where can attendees find the SEMA Show transportation and shuttle schedules?

Visit semashow.com/transportation for the latest shuttle schedules, hotel boarding locations, Monorail details, rideshare pickup areas, public transportation information and parking options. Routes, schedules and pickup locations may change, so check the guide before traveling.


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 is open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, the Registration Resource Center, or the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan.  

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.  

Tue, 10/27/2026 - 07:55

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Economic Update graphic.

 

New economic impact data shows substantial three-year growth of the American automotive aftermarket, as the industry continues to cement itself as a significant driver of the nation's economy.  

  • The study, commissioned by SEMA and conducted by John Dunham & Associates based on 2026 United States economic data, offers compelling evidence that the specialty automotive aftermarket––and its domestic manufacturing sector in particular––is robust, resilient and a major source of jobs, spending and revenue, despite economic uncertainty, including pressures from inflation. 

The study shows how the automotive aftermarket is outperforming inflation, expanding its economic footprint and increasingly serving as a domestically rooted manufacturing sector, with growth spreading well beyond traditional automotive states, including: 

  • Total annual economic impact grew to $383 billion (a 14% increase from $336.9 billion). 
  • Industry wages increased to $107.7 billion, (up from $104.3 billion), reflecting continued investment in the workforce.
  • Total jobs are 1.25 million, with manufacturing employment an especially bright spot. 

Manufacturing is a major source of growth for the automotive aftermarket. Direct specialty-equipment manufacturing employment increased 8% since 2023, with nearly 9,000 jobs added, bringing total direct manufacturing employment to more than 118,000. Annual manufacturing wages increased by $3.9 billion to $13.2 billion, while direct manufacturing output rose by more than $29 billion to $82.7 billion. 

"Three years after our first nationwide economic impact study, the data confirms that the specialty-equipment aftermarket remains a major American industry," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "Our industry is still a big deal, contributing $383 billion to the American economy and supporting 1.25 million jobs. This data should give policymakers a clear view of what is at stake and reinforce the importance of policies that enable American businesses to invest, hire and manufacture domestically." 

The aftermarket's 14% overall growth substantially exceeds the general inflation experienced during the period (8-9%), demonstrating real economic expansion, rather than merely price increases. The 2026 study shows fewer retail jobs, a product of how the federal government reclassified some electronic shopping and mail-order businesses (i.e. Amazon) from retail into business services, which fall outside this analysis. However, because of retail sector rebalances, and because of increased productivity and inflation, the overall output impacts and wage impacts are generally larger than the prior study. 

"It's clear that the aftermarket industry remains a source of good-paying jobs and is rife with opportunity for small businesses to bring innovative products to market and play a part in sustaining this American economic driver of growth," said Gavin Knapp, SEMA's director of market research. "It's exciting to see this data, and when the 2026 SEMA Show opens on November 3, in Las Vegas, we'll do so knowing that our industry, and the automotive community it supports, continues to thrive." 

In addition to the national numbers, SEMA has an interactive map that provides the ability to drill down to state-level, congressional and state legislative and Senate data. 
 

Methodology  

This economic impact analysis was developed by John Dunham & Associates based on data provided by SEMA, Data Axle and other government sources. The analysis utilizes the IMPLAN model in order to quantify the economic impact of the specialty equipment industry on the American economy, as well as in the 50 states, congressional, and state legislative and Senate districts. The model adopts an accounting framework through which the relationships between different inputs and outputs across industries and sectors are computed. This model can show the impact of a given economic decision––such as the opening of an automotive restoration business––on a pre-defined geographic region. It is based on the national income accounts generated by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). 

The updated analysis reflects significant changes in how certain occupations are classified by federal statistical agencies. As a result, some positions previously counted within retail segments of the aftermarket are now reported elsewhere in the economy. These methodological changes affect employment comparisons with the 2023 study but do not materially affect estimates of total economic impact.