Sponsored by Idemitsu 

 

When Honda revived one of its most iconic nameplates for 2026, the response from enthusiasts was immediate––and divided.

The return brought unmistakable style, modern technology and a hybrid-only powertrain. But for many Honda fans, one question remained: What could this car have been with more power, more performance and the kind of driver-focused experience that made the original an icon?

Idemitsu Lubricants America and Throtl heard the conversation. Then they decided to answer it.

Now entering the second year of their partnership, Idemitsu and Throtl have spent the past year creating a one-of-a-kind Honda build inspired by what enthusiasts have been asking for. The finished vehicle will make its world premiere at SEMA Show 2026 on Tuesday, November 3, at 10:00 a.m. PST, live from Idemitsu Booth #23753 in the Racing & Performance section of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Exactly which Honda model has been transformed––and what is hiding beneath its hood––will remain a closely guarded secret until the cover comes off.

But if last year's collaboration is any indication, the reveal will be worth the wait.

 

Taking the Conversation From Online to the Show Floor

The absence of a manual transmission and the decision to offer the revived coupe exclusively with a hybrid powertrain gave Honda enthusiasts plenty to debate. Idemitsu and Throtl saw an opportunity to take that conversation beyond comment sections and online forums.

Rather than simply imagining what might have been, they set out to build it.

The project reinterprets the new Honda with the power, performance, and personality enthusiasts have been craving. While the full specifications remain under wraps, Throtl promises a dramatically reimagined vehicle built to push the platform––and its supporting components––to the limit.

"Our partnership with Throtl has become one of the most anticipated parts of our SEMA presence," said Alexandre Moreira, Marketing Manager at Idemitsu Lubricants America. "Last year's reveal drew huge crowds and media attention at our booth, and this year we wanted to top it by tackling a car that’s on every Honda fan’s mind right now."

The build is designed to do more than attract attention. It also demonstrates what becomes possible when bold aftermarket thinking is supported by more than a century of lubrication expertise.

"Idemitsu has been engineering lubricants purpose-built for Japanese engines for generations," Moreira added. "This build is a perfect showcase of what our oils can do when a car is pushed to its absolute limit."

 

A Partnership Built for JDM Fans

Idemitsu and Throtl first joined forces at SEMA 2025, bringing bold, unmistakably Japanese performance builds to an audience that lives and breathes automotive culture.

The collaboration was a natural fit.

Founded in 2015 by brothers Evan and Rick Beckerman, Throtl has grown into a leading automotive media brand and e-commerce platform. Its massive catalog includes more than 400,000 performance and aftermarket parts, while its automotive content reaches a community of more than four million followers.

Behind those numbers is a genuine enthusiasm for car culture. Throtl has built its reputation by taking ambitious ideas, finding the right platforms, and transforming them into finished vehicles that feel exciting, surprising, and authentic to the enthusiast community.

"Last year we showed up and showed out at SEMA," said Throtl Co-Founder Evan Beckerman. "This year, we’re taking on the build every Honda fan has been arguing about online for months."

That makes the latest collaboration more than another custom-car debut. It is a direct response to the fans who looked at Honda’s revived icon and imagined an entirely different kind of performance machine.

"We can't say what it is or what's under the hood just yet," Beckerman added, "But once people see it, they will be absolutely amazed. Idemitsu has been with us every step of the way, and without their oil, this build wouldn’t survive what we’re about to put it through."

 

More Than 110 Years of Japanese Lubrication Expertise

For Idemitsu, supporting a radically transformed Japanese performance car is backed by generations of experience.

Since 1911, Idemitsu has developed premium lubricants engineered to meet exacting performance requirements. Today, Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. is recognized as one of the world's top lubricant manufacturers, with products supporting everything from everyday transportation to high-performance automotive applications.

Idemitsu has also served as a trusted factory-fill supplier to leading Japanese automakers for more than 65 years. Its original-equipment relationships have included brands such as Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Acura, Subaru, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Infiniti.

That experience provides an intimate understanding of Japanese engines, transmissions and drivetrains––and of how the correct lubricant can help protect their performance.

Idemitsu's full line of synthetic motor oils is formulated specifically for the demands of Japanese engines, from stock daily drivers to extensively modified performance builds. That is especially important when a vehicle is pushed beyond its original specifications, where increased power, heat and mechanical stress place even greater demands on every component.

It is also what makes the partnership with Throtl feel authentic. Throtl brings the vision, creativity and connection to enthusiast culture. Idemitsu brings the lubrication technology and Japanese original-equipment expertise needed to support that vision.

Together, they are building the Honda enthusiasts wished for.

 

See the Vehicle Revealed at SEMA 2026

The speculation ends November 3.

Visit Idemitsu Booth #23753 at 10:00 a.m. PST during the 2026 SEMA Show to witness the world premiere, meet the Throtl team, explore Idemitsu's racing and performance lineup, and see what happens when more than 110 years of Japanese lubrication expertise meets one of the most debated new vehicles in the enthusiast community.

The model is still a secret. The performance will speak for itself.

You wished it. Idemitsu and Throtl built it.

Visit idemitsulubricants.com for more information.

 

Mercedes-AMG Electric SUV Spotted With Less Camouflage

 

Mercedes-AMG has finally named the day it will pull the camouflage off its most unusual SUV. The fully electric GT SUV will make its world debut on October 17, 2026, at The 140 Festival at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. The first cars are expected to reach customers in early 2027.

For AMG, this is far more than just another premiere. The project was officially announced in November 2024: the full-size electric SUV will become the second vehicle on the dedicated AMG.EA platform and the first SUV whose architecture the Affalterbach specialists developed entirely on their own. At the time, the company kept the exact debut date secret. Now the countdown is on.

 

But the numbers surrounding the new GT SUV still require caution. The 1,169-hp output, up to 2,000 Nm of torque, 106-kWh battery, 800-volt architecture and charging at up to 600 kW officially belong to the electric Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4-Door Coupé. That version uses no fewer than three axial-flux electric motors. The technology is spectacular, but Mercedes-AMG has not given anyone permission to simply copy those figures onto the upcoming SUV.

The technical relationship between the two models, however, is hardly in doubt: both are built around the AMG.EA architecture. Mercedes-Benz’s Sindelfingen plant has already been converted for EVs on this platform and produces the new GT 4-Door. Mercedes-Benz Automobil AG also lists Sindelfingen as the future production site for the GT SUV.

 

So one date is now circled in red: October 17. That is when Mercedes-AMG is expected to reveal the production GT SUV’s specifications, range and final configuration. Only then will we know how close the electric crossover has come to the outrageous numbers of its four-door relative.

 

Electric AMG: The Mercedes-AMG E-Class EQ

 

Our photographer at the German Nürburgring has caught a less camouflaged prototype of an AMG-powered variant of the Mercedes E-Class EQ. The next-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class is also in the pipeline with EQ Technology, following the Mercedes GLC and the upcoming C-Class, both with EQ Technology. The new E-Class EQ will also debut as an AMG — possibly based on the next-generation AMG.EA dedicated platform used by the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé.

 

For now, all we know is that the all-new Mercedes E-Class Electric has been undergoing testing since last year and is set to launch as a fully electric vehicle to replace the unsuccessful Mercedes EQE Sedan. The AMG variant is recognizable by its funky AMG wheel designs, wider fender flares, the lower section of the front bumper and the spoiler lip at the rear.

As for performance, the rumor mill suggests the new Mercedes-AMG E-Class EQ will use a detuned version of the AMG.EA platform and arrive with 800 to 900 hp, though it will also be quite heavy due to the battery pack.

 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

By SEMA News Editors

 

Seven leading automotive and powersports original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will showcase new vehicles, concept builds, performance products and customization experiences at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas.

Ford Motor Company, Harley-Davidson, Honda Racing Corporation, Mitsubishi Motors, Mopar/Stellantis, Nissan, and Toyota will connect with the automotive aftermarket and demonstrate how performance, personalization and emerging product opportunities are shaping vehicles across street, track, off-road and powersports applications.

"When an automaker is ready to debut a vehicle, the SEMA Show offers a combination of industry influence, media attention and enthusiast energy that is difficult to match," said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. "Manufacturers are not simply unveiling vehicles here. They are introducing them to the people who will customize, promote and help define what those vehicles can become."

 

Ford Motor Company

Booth #20000 in Central Hall
Booth #55033 in West Hall

Ford Motor Company is returning to the SEMA Show in a big way, with a showcase celebrating performance, personalization and the creativity of the builder community. From some of its most iconic enthusiast vehicles to a broad range of accessories and performance parts, Ford builds on that passion by giving customers more ways to make their Ford their own. Attendees can expect plenty of inspiration, hands-on experiences and one very big surprise when the Show opens. And when Ford says big, it means big.

"People don't just buy a Ford; they make it their own," said Matt Simpson, executive director of Ford Customization. "SEMA celebrates the ingenuity of people who see a vehicle not as a finished product but as a starting point. That spirit has always been part of Ford, and we're excited to return to the Show under the Blue Oval, alongside the builders, creators and enthusiasts who continue to push what's possible."

That focus on personalization will also carry into the Ford booth, where attendees can take part in the Ford Custom Garage Ultimate Build Competition.

Ford at SEMA: Design It. Build It. Make It Yours. 

Visit the Ford Booth #55033 in the West Hall to take part in the Ford Custom Garage Ultimate Build Competition. Showgoers can submit their Ultimate Ford Bronco Big Bend build using the Ford 3-D configurators straight in the booth.

Washtenaw Community College students will bring the winning design to life in the Ford booth with Genuine Ford Accessories and Ford Racing Parts for those who enter by 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3.

Missed the competition deadline? Showgoers can still create a design throughout the week and stop by the Ford booth to see the winning build come to life––just note that late entries won't be eligible to win.   

Ford has also released a teaser video offering an early look at its 2026 SEMA Show plans, with additional details expected closer to Showtime.

 

Harley-Davidson

Booth #60217 in West Hall (Powersports | SXS| Lifestyle)
Booth #70050 in Diamond Lot (outside West Hall)

For its 2026 SEMA Show activation, Harley-Davidson will immerse guests in the culture of self-expression through engaging customization experiences, including custom motorcycle showcases and an elevated garage environment that celebrates the craftsmanship behind custom builds. Anchored by a storytelling installation highlighting Harley-Davidson's racing and performance heritage, the experience connects the brand's iconic past with the creativity and individuality that define it today.

"Customization through parts and accessories is core to the Harley-Davidson brand and ownership experience, making the SEMA Show a natural fit," said Bryan Niketh, chief operating officer of Harley-Davidson Inc. "We're excited to be part of the expanded Powersports section and look forward to connecting with riders there."

 

Honda Racing Corporation

Booth #24789 in Central Hall 

The Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) booth at the 2026 SEMA Show will bring together the worlds of two-wheel and four-wheel performance in a dynamic showcase of HRC's racing heritage and future. Attendees will get an up-close look at championship-winning performance, new original merchandise for sale and authentic HRC Performance Parts developed for street, track and off-road enthusiasts.

The display highlights HRC's growing product business, including performance products, merchandise and memorabilia. Interactive experiences and special appearances will give fans even more ways to connect with the people, engineering and competitive spirit behind HRC. Attendees can expect a few surprises that demonstrate how HRC continues to turn lessons learned through racing into new possibilities for customers.

"SEMA brings together the people who are most passionate about performance, innovation and personalization, making it the perfect place for HRC to share what we learn through racing," said Jon Ikeda, senior vice president of Honda Racing Corporation USA. "The HRC display celebrates our championship heritage while offering a glimpse at how that experience can inspire new products and possibilities for Honda and Acura customers."

Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) will showcase new developments in off-road competition and performance parts at the 2026 SEMA Show. The company will unveil a new trophy truck developed for the 2027 SCORE World Desert Championship, as detailed in its trophy truck announcement. HRC will also introduce HRC Performance Parts, with sales scheduled to begin in March 2027.

 

Mitsubishi Motors North America

Booth #52249 in West Hall 

"Mitsubishi is back, with our bold Momentum 2030 business plan providing the roadmap for our future," said Mark Chaffin, president and CEO, Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc. "The plan calls for at least one all-new or significantly revised vehicle every year through fiscal-year 2030, while building a bolder, more distinctive Mitsubishi brand with a stronger identity and presence. At the heart of that future is our four-wheel-drive heritage and an unmatched record of success in the Dakar Rally and World Rally Championship, a legacy that will help inspire the exciting new models to come. Our return to the SEMA Show, with our first official presence since 2012, is more than a return––it's a stake in the ground for the future of Mitsubishi Motors in America." 

Mitsubishi Motors will return to the SEMA Show for the first time since 2012, with the world debut of the '28 Outlander Diamond Trail Edition. The adventure-focused SUV features 18-inch all-terrain tires, an updated Super-All Wheel Control system and an exclusive Rock drive mode. Mitsubishi will display six vehicles at booth 52249 in the West Hall.

 

Mopar/Stellantis

Booth #59119 in West Hall 

"Mopar is shifting the West Hall into high gear with an all-new home, bold concept vehicles, head-turning builds and a few unexpected surprises, all showcasing the creativity, innovation and performance engineering that powers our brands," said Darren Bradshaw, senior vice president of Mopar North America. "There is no stage like the SEMA Show to ignite our passion for customization and performance, connect with enthusiasts and demonstrate the impressive breadth and depth of our quality-tested, factory-backed portfolio of parts and accessories."

Mopar will also mark its upcoming 90th anniversary with the debut of the Mopar '27 Dodge Charger, a limited-edition package featuring distinctive styling, carbon-fiber components and performance enhancements. Available for the 2027 Dodge Charger R/T and Scat Pack Plus, the package will be limited to 270 units. The Charger will join customized Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles and a range of factory-backed performance parts and accessories at the Mopar booth in the West Hall.

 

Nissan

Booth #21521 in Central Hall 

Nissan's 2026 SEMA Show display celebrates the passion of the enthusiast community with a collection of concept vehicles that blend creativity, capability and customization. Spanning heritage-inspired performance builds, off-road adventurers and motorsports-driven projects, the lineup showcases the spirit of customization that continues to inspire Nissan enthusiasts on and off the road.

 

Toyota

Booth #22200 in Central Hall 

"SEMA is where creativity, performance and possibility come together," said Owen Peacock, general manager of Toyota Marketing. "It's the perfect venue to showcase the versatility of Toyota vehicles and explore what's possible when imagination meets capability. From everyday driving to the next big adventure and beyond, these builds demonstrate how Toyota vehicles and its portfolio of powertrains and accessories can meet a wide range of needs while inspiring new ways for customers to make them their own."

"Attendees will find a wide range of manufacturer experiences and where their products are headed into the future, from concept vehicles and custom builds to performance parts, accessories and interactive displays," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "They will be able to compare approaches, talk with manufacturer representatives and gather ideas they can apply to their own businesses and projects."

Toyota has also unveiled its Snowhunter concept family, a five-vehicle lineup featuring the Tundra, Tacoma, 4Runner, Land Cruiser and Sequoia. Designed for winter exploration, the concepts combine snow-ready equipment, off-road capability and adventure-focused accessories to show how Toyota trucks and SUVs can be customized for travel beyond plowed roads.

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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.   

By SEMA News Editors

 

For SEMA Show exhibitors looking for a different way to entertain clients, connect with customers or bring teams together after a long day on the show floor, F1® Arcade Las Vegas offers an experience that combines motorsports, competition, food and nightlife under one roof.

Located inside The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace on Las Vegas Boulevard, F1® Arcade is among the best options for exhibitor and client entertainment during SEMA Week. With 87 racing simulator sunder one roof, F1® Arcade offers full-venue buyouts for 600-plus guests, semi-private spaces and private rooms accommodating up to 220 guests.

 

Turn a Corporate Event Into a Fun Competition

 

Tournaments at the F1® Arcade can turn departments, customers, vendors or industry partners into teams competing against each other for bragging rights. Even better, guests don't need to be experienced sim racers to enjoy the experience, as F1® Arcade offers multiple skill levels so newcomers can compete alongside more experienced drivers.

 

Hospitality With Built-in Entertainment and Networking

 

F1® Arcade Las Vegas is built for networking without feeling like a typical corporate event. The competitive environment creates an easy conversation starter and gives exhibitors, clients and teams something interactive to do together rather than simply meeting at another typical networking venue.

The experience also combines racing with elevated food, cocktails, social spaces and nightlife—making F1® Arcade well suited for post-SEMA receptions, happy hours, client dinners and after-parties.

 

F1® Arcade: A Natural Fit for Automotive Brands

 

SEMA attracts manufacturers, suppliers, performance companies, technology brands and many other types of automotive businesses. F1® Arcade provides an environment where those companies can entertain customers while keeping the experience connected to speed, performance and racing.

Ideal for brand activations, the racing environment creates opportunities for sponsored races, branded leaderboards, customer competitions, product launches, VIP receptions and influencer or creator events.

After spending the day walking the busy SEMA Show floor, Showgoers can transition into an experience that still feels connected to automotive culture without feeling like a regular business environment.

 

Learn More About Hosting an Event at F1® Arcade Las Vegas

For more information about hosting a private event, client gathering or brand activation at F1® Arcade Las Vegas, visit the F1 Arcade Las Vegas website at f1arcade.com/us/las-vegas or visit the Private Events webpage at f1arcade.com/us/private-events/las-vegas.

 

By SEMA News Editors

The 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, serves as the stage for the newest products, technologies and trends shaping the automotive aftermarket.

Recognized as the no. 1 destination for buyers and media at the SEMA Show, the New Products Showcase gives exhibitors a dedicated display for their latest innovations and best-selling products.

Below, preview some of the brand-new products that will debut at the 2026 SEMA show, and get a glimpse at the SEMA Show plans for a few of the industry brands that will have a presence on the Show floor.

 

Klein Tools

Booth #12779

 

Klein Tools will be introducing the KNECT Ratcheting 17-in-1 Interchangeable Low-Profile Socket Wrench Set at the 2026 SEMA Show, where it will be demonstrated at the Klein Tools and featured in the SEMA Show New Products Showcase.

Designed for hard-to-reach fasteners in tight spaces such as engine bays, the set features a super low-profile design and Klein Tools' first KNECT flex-head ratchet, which locks in 11 positions for access to hard-to-reach angles.

The 17-piece set includes eight SAE and eight metric pass-through sockets, with color-coded rings and laser-etched markings for quick size identification. Impact-rated, cold-forged steel construction supports high-torque applications.

See Klein Tools on the SEMA Show floor

 

Camburg Racing

Booth #23143

 

Celebrating the inaugural year of the American Off-Road Racing Championship and its team wins at the Parker 400, Silver State 300 and MINT 400, Camburg Racing will debut an all-new all-wheel-drive race truck design at the 2026 SEMA Show. The new platform represents a step forward in Camburg's race vehicle engineering, applying lessons learned through competition to create the next generation of purpose-built off-road race trucks, company representatives said.

Camburg will also mark the launch of its new aftermarket shock program. Developed from the same design principles and engineering behind Camburg's race-winning shocks, the new lineup brings race-proven technology to off-road enthusiasts looking for increased capability and control from their trucks, the company said.

See Camburg Racing on the SEMA Show floor

 

Tmat Products

Booth #56153

 

Tmat Products is returning to the SEMA Show with its patented modular cargo management system alongside newly released accessories and upcoming innovations that will be on display in its West Hall booth.

The Tmat display will feature a '25 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road and a custom-built overlanding trailer, giving attendees an opportunity to see the system demonstrated in practical truck, outdoor and everyday-use applications. Visitors will be able to experience firsthand how Tmat transforms cluttered truck beds into organized, functional cargo spaces using a modular grid and adjustable blockers, the company said.

See Tmat on the SEMA Show floor

 

Vapor Trapper

Booth #24665

 

Vapor Trapper, the patented billet aluminum charcoal canister designed to help eliminate raw fuel odors from classic cars, hot rods, trucks, boats and specialty vehicles, will return to the SEMA Show to highlight not only the Vapor Trapper product line, but also the vehicles, builders and companies using the technology throughout the industry.

Vapor Trapper will feature multiple custom vehicles representing different segments of the automotive aftermarket from classic Volkswagens and hot rods to trucks and a custom ice cream truck, in addition to its expanded product lineup, which now includes Low-Profile and High Performance configurations, along with new installation solutions and accessories designed to make installation easier across an even broader range of vehicles.

The brand will also present special Vapor Trapper Awards at the 2026 SEMA Show, honoring select vehicles on display at SEMA that feature outstanding Vapor Trapper installations. Award recipients will be recognized at their vehicles during the Show and featured across Vapor Trapper's social media channels following the SEMA Show.

See Vapor Trapper on the SEMA Show floor

 

Landscape Durable Tires

Booth #48225

Visitors to the Landscape Durable Tires booth will see its eight-pattern lineup, Aegis High-Durability Technology and Purple Diamond Pledge, together with test data and field experience supporting the company's focus on long wear, lasting strength and dependable performance.

At the SEMA Show, dealers, distributors, media and industry professionals can examine the tire line, discuss the testing approach and see how Landscape is engineering durability across passenger, SUV and light-truck applications, the company said. In-booth durability presentations will occur at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. daily.

See Landscape Durable Tires on the SEMA Show floor

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Exhibitors can post press releases--free of charge--at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness, as well as possible inclusion in association publications and promotion to media attendees. To find more relevant news quickly and efficiently, visit semashow.com/press and sort by type of announcement and/or market segment.

Attendee registration for the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, is now available online here. Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $100 per person, with badge pickup on site on the SEMA Show campus. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX.

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 2026 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com. Sign up for updates on SEMA Fest at semafest.com.

By SEMA News Editors

 

More seats have been added to Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) education programs at the 2026 SEMA Show, giving attendees another opportunity to take advantage of the organization's business and technical programming (more on SCRS sessions below).

Along with SCRS, SEMA Show partners I-CAR and the Tire Industry Association (TIA) will bring high-level education to the SEMA Show, November 3–6, in Las Vegas. (Not yet registered for the 2026 SEMA Show? Get started here).

From hands-on technical training and collision-repair business education to tire service, TPMS and ADAS programming, the three partners offer opportunities for professionals to build skills and stay current with the technologies and business practices shaping their industries.

 

SCRS Adds More Seats to Repairer and Collision Education

 

More seats are now available for SCRS programs, giving attendees another opportunity to register for the organization's expanded slate of education, technology programming and industry events taking place throughout SEMA Week.

SCRS returns with its Repairer Driven Education (RDE) classroom program Tuesday, November 3, and Wednesday, November 4. The program addresses the business, technical and operational challenges facing modern collision-repair facilities, with sessions covering digital marketing, repair planning, technical authority, training effectiveness, mechanical labor, estimator capacity, financial management, leadership, communication and auto glass integration.

The 2026 RDE program combines established industry experts with new voices and perspectives. Eleven professionals will make their first appearance as RDE classroom presenters, joining returning RDE alumni from across the collision-repair industry.

Several sessions have also been intentionally developed to give attendees opportunities to explore connected subjects at greater depth. For example, "Capturing Mechanical Labor: Being Intentional About the Opportunity" examines mechanical operations that collision shops may already be performing––or should be identifying––during blueprinting and repair planning. Later Tuesday, "Bringing Mechanical Repairs In-house" will explore the investments, staffing, equipment, workflow changes and business considerations involved in developing those capabilities internally.

On Wednesday, presenters Tony Adams and Melissa Wolfe of LeadersWay will deliver two sessions that approach leadership and team performance from complementary directions: "Own It: The Difference Between Responsibility and Accountability" and "Speak Their Language: Communication That Actually Works in a Body Shop."

SCRS will also host the IDEAS Collide Showcase Wednesday, November 4, from 2:30 p.m.–4:00 p.m. PST. The fast-paced format gives presenters about 10 minutes to challenge conventional thinking and introduce ideas with the potential to change an individual business or the industry itself. The 2026 lineup spans artificial intelligence, legal and financial issues, diagnostics and calibration, business growth, future vehicle technology, marketing and workforce development.

On Thursday, November 5, the OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit returns with three sessions focused on how evolving vehicles, materials and technologies affect repairability. SCRS is also working with SEMA and I-CAR on an expanded SEMA ADAS Showcase, with greater emphasis on the technology driving repair requirements and opportunities for repairers to interact directly with engineers and technical specialists responsible for vehicle safety systems.

For attendees looking to take full advantage of SCRS programming, the RDE Full Series Pass provides access to RDE classroom education, the IDEAS Collide Showcase, all three OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit sessions and the Thursday night SCRS Sky Villa After-party.

More seats are now available: Registration for all SCRS sessions, including a "best value" full-series pass, is available when registering for the SEMA Show. Already registered for SEMA? Visit the Registration Resource Center and click "Add/View Education and Events."

The organization is also working with SEMA and I-CAR on an expanded SEMA ADAS Showcase, which will bring repair professionals closer to the vehicle technologies, engineering and repair considerations shaping the collision industry. Additional details on the SEMA ADAS Showcase will also be announced closer to the event.

View the SCRS booth #31147 on the SEMA Show floorplan.

 

I-CAR Brings Practical Training and Expert Insights

 

I-CAR, one of the trusted industry leaders in training, innovation and workforce development, returns to the SEMA Show with practical education and expert insights designed to empower collision repair professionals in meeting the demands of today's increasingly complex vehicles.

I-CAR's 2026 lineup extends beyond traditional bodywork to disciplines shaping the future of repair work across the entire automotive ecosystem, including ADAS calibration and diagnostics, GMA/MIG welding, blueprinting and glue pull repair.

New for 2026 are three courses:

• Introductions to Diagnostics and Scan Tools: Learn the importance of pre-, in-process and post-repair scans, how diagnostic trouble codes relate to calibrations and how different scan-tool options support OEM-aligned repairs.
• Understanding the Blueprinting Process: Examine the blueprinting process––from initial inspection through damage identification––and learn how comprehensive damage analysis can improve repair planning and decrease cycle time.
• Glue Pull Repair (GPR): Discover how this non-invasive exterior-panel repair method differs from traditional paintless dent repair, including its tools, benefits, limitations and potential collision-repair applications.

Returning courses include Requirements and Considerations for ADAS Calibration, GMA/MIG Welding Basics and GMA/MIG Welding Advanced Features. Attendees can also purchase course bundles pairing related sessions. Those who attend both sessions in a bundle and pass the post-test will receive two I-CAR course credits toward annual training, with savings available on each bundle.

Beyond the I-CAR Education Sessions area, attendees can visit I-CAR booth #33139 to learn more about Gold Class recognition, connect with I-CAR experts and see live welding demonstrations. I-CAR experts will also participate in programming on the SEMA Collision Repair & Refinish Stage.

Registration for I-CAR sessions, including more options featuring specially priced bundles, is available when registering for the SEMA Show. Already registered? Visit the Registration Resource Center and click "Add/View Education and Events."

 

 

 

TIA Covers Tire Service, TPMS, ADAS and Business

 

The Global Tire Expo (GTE)––Powered by the Tire Industry Association (TIA)––returns to the LVCC Lower South Hall, bringing together tire dealers, manufacturers, suppliers, retreaders, recyclers and service professionals from around the world.

TIA will also present six educational sessions in the Upper South Hall covering today's most important topics in tire service, tire-pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), commercial tire service, safety, government affairs and business management.

Tuesday, November 3, programming includes "Truck Tires TPMS at 10: TPMS in Commercial Truck Tires,"

"Tires at 10: Passenger and Light-Truck Tire Conditions Analysis" and "Tires at 2: ADAS and the Future of Custom Tire and Wheel Fitments."

Wednesday, November 4, TIA will present "TPMS at 10: Curing the TPMS Pain Points," "Truck Tires at 10: Emergency Road Service Safety" and "Management at 2: Making Customer Service Part of Your Brand."

All six sessions are free and provide opportunities to learn from TIA experts on issues affecting tire service professionals, including TPMS, commercial truck tires, ADAS, emergency road service safety and customer relationships.

Attendees can also visit TIA booths #41067 and #40067 to learn more about the association's industry-leading training programs, government affairs initiatives and member benefits.

TIA will host networking opportunities during Show Week as well, including the Tire Industry Networking Reception Monday, November 2, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino and a TIA Booth Happy Hour Tuesday, November 3, from 3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m. at booth #41067.

View the TIA booth #40067 and the TIA booth #41067 on the SEMA Show floorplan. For complete details on TIA's educational sessions, networking events, hotel accommodations and the latest GTE updates, visit tireindustry.org/events/gte-2026.

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3–6 in Las Vegas. Attendees can add education sessions to their registration during the SEMA Show registration process or in the Registration Resource Center.

 

Explore the Expanded Collision and Tools Space at the SEMA Show

Business growth requires the right tools and the right training. SEMA Showgoers can explore the brand-new dedicated Collision and Tools section alongside the New Products Showcase and the TIA booths in South Hall Lower, then head upstairs to South Hall Upper to join I-CAR, SCRA and TIA for world-class technical education.

 

Get the Complete SEMA Show 2026 Preview in SEMA Magazine

The collision repair and tire education programming highlighted here is just a sneak peek. Read the complete details in The Show Guide issue of SEMA magazine, going to print this November in time for the SEMA Show.

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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.   

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

While there's plenty to do on the SEMA Show floor, the action doesn't stop once Show hours end. Throughout Show week––November 3-6, Las Vegas––you'll find networking events, industry celebrations, live entertainment and unforgettable experiences happening across campus that can help you elevate your business, make long-lasting connections and be a part of the community that drives the aftermarket forward. Take a look at what awaits and start adding your favorites to your SEMA Show schedule.

2026 SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast

 

The official kick-off to the 2026 SEMA Show, the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, Tuesday, November 3, at 7:00 a.m. at the Westgate Las Vegas Paradise Event Center, will feature an exclusive fireside chat with comedian and automotive enthusiast Jay Leno and Harley-Davidson President and CEO Artie Starrs.

The annual event will also feature the presentation of the 2026 SEMA Best New Product Awards across 15 categories, followed by the announcement of the SEMA Manufacturer of the Year and SEMA Channel Partner of the Year awards.

Click here for more information.

2026 SEMA Industry Honors

 

Scheduled for Thursday, November 5, at the BleauLive Theater at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the 2026 SEMA Industry Honors will celebrate the people, companies and innovators making an impact across the automotive aftermarket. The evening begins with a 6:00 p.m. cocktail reception featuring complimentary hors d'oeuvres and an open bar, followed by the awards ceremony at 7:30 p.m., recognizing honorees including the SEMA Content Creator of the Year and SEMA Person of the Year.

Tickets are $50 and include the reception, hors d'oeuvres and open bar. Exhibitor Key Contacts receive two complimentary tickets, with additional tickets available for $50 each. Seating is limited, so attendees are encouraged to secure their spots for one of the biggest nights of SEMA Week.

Click here for more information.

SEMA Show Features

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is packed with attractions that go well beyond the exhibit floor. Attendees can discover thousands of new products in the New Products Showcase, see cutting-edge EV, propulsion and smart-manufacturing technology at SEMA FutureTech Studio and follow the action at the SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers. Feature Vehicle Displays will also put the latest aftermarket products into action on cars, trucks and powersports vehicles throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center.

There's plenty more to explore, from hands-on demonstrations and expert presentations at the SEMA Collision Repair Stage to interviews and vehicle builds at SEMA Central. Attendees can also check out the Toyo Tires Treadpass, RAYS Wheels' first-ever official SEMA Show display, the Art Walk and SEMA Gear, while the NHRA Breakfast and SEMA Members Lounge offer opportunities to connect, recharge and network throughout Show week.

Discover more Show features here.

Special Events, Education and Celebrity Appearances

 

Every year, the SEMA Show draws many famous motorsports and entertainment personalities who are all excited to interact with SEMA Show attendees.

You can check out the full schedule of celebrity appearances here to find out where your favorite builder, racer, influencer or television star will be appearing.

Whether after hours or during the Show, there are plenty of special events to add to your personalized SEMA Show schedule. With hours of education sessions on tap and all varieties of networking events open to industry members, there's no shortage of events to attend to maximize your SEMA Show experience.

See the full schedule of events here.

Registration is open online, with attendee badges currently priced at $100. Register for the 2026 SEMA Show here.

By registering for the 2026 SEMA Show, attendees aren't just planning four days of products, vehicles, education and networking in Las Vegas. They're helping support the work that protects the future of the automotive aftermarket.

U.S.-based SEMA Show attendees: Register by Friday, October 9, to meet the badge mailing deadline. After that date, attendees should plan to pick up their badges on-site in 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.  

By SEMA News Editors

 

Hyundai Transys will invest nearly $560 million to expand its manufacturing capabilities in West Point, Georgia, the company announced.

The company plans to create 320 new jobs as part of its ongoing efforts to support global automotive customers with operations in North America.

"The Hyundai family of brands has been an incredible partner to Georgia, and this decision by Hyundai Transys only reinforces that valued friendship," said Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp. "As the automotive manufacturing industry continues to make historic investments in our state, this facility will further enhance the strength of that ecosystem and allow Hyundai and Kia to grow their already impressive capacity here in Georgia."

Since its founding in 1994, Hyundai Transys has grown into a global automotive parts specialist, focused on advanced technology and powertrains and seats, the company said. The company currently supports roughly 1,250 jobs at its West Point facility.

"Over the past two decades, Hyundai Transys Georgia Powertrain (HTGP) and the State of Georgia have grown together, building a strong relationship of trust through continued capital investment, job creation and talent development. Georgia's exceptional workforce development infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and unique opportunities for growth have provided an ideal foundation for Hyundai Transys to strengthen its future mobility competitiveness and pursue sustainable growth," said Jaekyun Choi, president of Hyundai Transys Georgia Powertrain. "This additional investment marks an important milestone that demonstrates Hyundai Transys' firm commitment to our long-term partnership with the State of Georgia. Moving forward, we will continue to grow alongside the local community and build world-class manufacturing capabilities that place safety and quality at the forefront, delivering greater value to our customers and the communities we serve."

Located at 6801 Kia Parkway in West Point, the expansion will include facility upgrades to plants one and two, as well as the construction of a third plant. The expansion will support added production capacity for electrified powertrains for hybrid vehicles. Hyundai Transys will be hiring for administrative, supervisory and production positions.

For more information, visit hyundai-transys.com/en.

By Ashley Reyes

 

Does your SEMA Show featured vehicle demonstrate quality engineering? If so, SEMA invites you to put your work in the spotlight.

Nominations are closing soon for the 2026 SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award, which honors a SEMA Show featured vehicle that demonstrates exceptional engineering throughout the entire vehicle or in an aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond physical appearance. It also aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

The deadline to enter is Wednesday, October 28.                                   

For builders and engineers, winning the award is an opportunity to showcase their talent, vision and technical expertise to the global automotive aftermarket community. The winner will receive a trophy presented at SEMA Central and will be spotlighted through SEMA communications, including SEMA News, providing additional exposure for the vehicle, the team behind it and their technical capabilities.

 

To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video and description of the engineering content included in the build, as well as the location of the vehicle displayed at the SEMA Show. Entries are being accepted until Wednesday, October 28, at this link.

By SEMA News Editors

 

The countdown to SEMA Fest is officially on, with less than a month until one of the biggest celebrations of music and car culture in Las Vegas on Friday, November 6. 

From incredible builds and automotive attractions to live entertainment and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow enthusiasts, there’s a lot to look forward to––and now is the time to secure your tickets and start planning your experience.

The SEMA Fest schedule is here, making it easier to plan an action-packed Friday, November 6. Check out the full schedule below, then secure tickets––and keep in mind that payment plans remain available through October 9.

For an at-a-glance look at the SEMA Fest lineup, check out the schedule graphic at the end of the article. It's an easy way to see when each performance and attraction takes the stage.

Following a day of exploring on the SEMA Show floor on Friday, November 6, the doors to SEMA Fest open at 3:00 p.m. PST. Enjoy the atmosphere and check out the rare supercars and hypercars from Supercar Saturdays Florida before the high-energy Globe of Death begins its world-famous stunt show from 3:30 p.m.-3:50 p.m. PST.

 

 

Then, from 4:00 p.m.-4:40 p.m. PST, The Alive opens the music lineup with a fresh California rock sound rooted in surf, skate and hard-driving live performance. The band cites influences including Black Sabbath, Nirvana, Rush and Queens of the Stone Age, making them a fitting addition to a lineup built on energy, edge and attitude. 

Heart-pumping, tire-flinging drifting demonstrations will then take place in the Optima Unleashed area from 4:45 p.m.-5:00 p.m. PST.

 

 

From 5:10 p.m.-6:10 p.m. PST, 311 brings its unmistakable blend of rock, reggae, funk and hip-hop influences to the main stage. The band has released 14 studio albums, sold more than 10 million records in the United States and remains known for crowd favorites such as "Down," "Amber" and "All Mixed Up." 

The action continues with fresh demonstrations from Optima Unleashed at 6:10 p.m.-6:30 p.m. PST followed by another round of death-defying stunts from the Globe of Death from 6:30 p.m.-6:50 p.m. PST.

From 6:50 p.m.-8:00 p.m. PST, Jimmy Eat World adds its signature anthemic alternative-rock sound to the lineup. The band broke through globally with "The Middle," which reached no. 1 on Billboard's Modern Rock Tracks chart and became one of the defining rock songs of the early '00s.  

Following another round of Optima Unleashed (8:05 p.m.-8:20 p.m. PST) and the Globe of Death (8:20 p.m.-8:35 p.m. PST), the headliners take to the SEMA Fest stage from 8:40 p.m.-9:55 p.m. PST. Multi-platinum punk-rock icons The Offspring bring decades of Southern California punk-rock energy to SEMA Fest. Formed in Garden Grove in 1984, the band is known for their generation-defining hits such as "Self Esteem," "Come Out and Play," "The Kids Aren't Alright" and "Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)." Widely credited with helping revive mainstream interest in punk rock during the '90s, The Offspring has sold more than 45 million records worldwide.  

Tickets are still available and payment plans remain available through October 9. Non-industry members can also make it a full-day adventure with the "SEMA Show Friday–Open to the Public" ticket at semafest.com. 

For the latest updates, follow @SEMAFestOfficial on social media or visit semafest.com. 

Save the schedule for easy reference as SEMA Fest approaches. The graphic below shows when each act, demonstration and attraction is scheduled to take the stage: