By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is hosting a business networking mixer for truck and off-road professionals at The Trail Hero event in Hurricane, Utah. Happening Thursday, October 2, from 5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m. MDT, the mixer will be held at MischiefMaker TV Garage (174 Old Hwy. 91, Unit 2, Hurricane, UT 84737). 

The mixer will provide a great opportunity for attendees to expand their professional network, learn about resources designed to advance their business and hear details about TORA activities scheduled for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas. Attendees will also meet the TORA select committee, explore open volunteer roles and build relationships with leaders across the aftermarket.  

TORA membership is open to all SEMA member companies serving the truck and off-road aftermarket industry. If this sounds like your business, don't miss your chance to enjoy an evening of great company, meaningful connections, and engaging conversation. Light snacks and drinks will be provided. 

Reserve your spot today.  

By Ashley Reyes

There's still time to register for the SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) General Membership Meeting and Panel Discussion happening next Thursday, September 18, at 10:00 a.m. PDT/1:00 p.m. EDT. The first 25 members to register will receive a $25 Uber Eats Voucher to use on the day of the meeting--so don't wait. Register now. 

Taking place virtually, this event will include updates on MPMC's member benefits, followed by a panel discussion on how companies can stay competitive in today's evolving media landscape.  

Attendees will learn:  

• How enthusiasts are discovering events and products in today's media landscape. 
• How to connect authentically with a younger audience across a fragmented media landscape. 
• How AI is impacting media development and consumption. 
• How manufacturers can align and create an effective marketing mix. 
• Why media channel partner collaboration is necessary and how the Media Trade Conference can help. 

Panelists include Mike Galimi, network director at MotorTrend/Hearst; Matt Martelli, CEO at Unlimited Off-Road Racing; and Brian Scotto, co-founder at Hoonigan, and creative director/filmmaker/founder at 321 ACTION ACTION.  

Register here. 

By Ashley Reyes

Nominations are now open for the 2025 SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award, giving builders a chance to spotlight their ingenuity, talents, and impact on the automotive aftermarket industry. Nominations are due on Wednesday, October 29, here. 

Now in its third year, the award honors a featured vehicle at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, that demonstrates exceptional engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or 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 and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle's design and engineering. 

Nominate Today  

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 displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show.  

Learn more and nominate by Wednesday, October 29, at this link. 

The award winner will be announced at the 2025 SEMA Show on Thursday, November 6, in SEMA Central. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Classic Instruments in August welcomed Republican Michigan state Rep. Parker Fairbairn for a tour of its Boyne City, Michigan, facility, to share the impact of the aftermarket industry on the state's economy.

As a member of the Michigan Legislature, Rep. Fairbairn plays an important role in supporting small manufacturers and advancing policies that impact the specialty-equipment and motorsports industries. He is serving his first term representing District 107, containing the cities of Boyne City, Charlevoix, East Jordan, Harbor Springs, Mackinac Island, Petoskey, Sault Ste. Marie and St. Ignace. Rep. Fairbairn sits on the Regulatory Reform Committee as vice chair, the Natural Resources and Tourism, Communication and Technology, and Energy Committees. He is familiar with the industry and has previously attended the SEMA Show. 

A key topic discussed during Rep. Fairbairn's visit was SEMA's top state legislative priority heading into 2026: protecting race tracks from nuisance claims, specifically when tracks were built before nearby development occurred. Preserving race tracks by shielding them from civil lawsuits is essential to sustaining grassroots motorsports and supporting the broader automotive culture. SEMA will continue its advocacy efforts in the next legislative session to ensure racetracks are protected and motorsports can continue to thrive in Michigan and beyond.

A Local Example of the Aftermarket's National Clout 

The visit is part of SEMA's ongoing effort to build strong relationships with lawmakers, educate them on the aftermarket industry's priorities and ensure that the future of automotive innovation, from performance to personalization, remains protected and supported in the state that is the heart of the American auto industry.  

Founded in 1977, Classic Instruments designs, engineers and manufactures custom gauges from its 14,000-sq.-ft. headquarters, where it employs a dedicated team of 25. Classic Instruments is a pillar of the local community and has earned numerous awards for its support of law enforcement, fire departments and local sports organizations. Its reputation and community involvement made it a natural stop to host Rep. Fairbairn. 

Michigan's specialty equipment aftermarket and performance racing industries make a significant contribution to the state's economy. The specialty-equipment market generates $34.67 billion in total economic impact, supports 116,186 jobs, provides $9.46 billion in wages and benefits and contributes $3.53 billion in taxes paid. Moreover, Michigan's racing industry accounts for $6.95 billion in total economic impact, supports 24,643 jobs, provides $1.86 billion in wages and benefits and contributes $791.75 million in taxes paid annually. 

Host Your Own Tour 

Hosting local lawmakers at your facility is a valuable opportunity to highlight your business, introduce your team and build stronger connections with those shaping public policy. These visits are especially impactful when elected officials witness the skill, dedication and pride that go into the work at small, family-owned operations which serve as the heart of the automotive aftermarket. Seeing your shop in action puts a human face on the policies they consider. It reinforces that behind every regulation are real people, quality jobs and local communities. 

If you are interested in hosting a lawmaker at your facility, SEMA's Government Affairs team is here to help make it happen. Contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs, at tierrah@sema.org.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Classic Instruments in August welcomed Republican Michigan state Rep. Parker Fairbairn for a tour of its Boyne City, Michigan, facility, to share the impact of the aftermarket industry on the state's economy.

As a member of the Michigan Legislature, Rep. Fairbairn plays an important role in supporting small manufacturers and advancing policies that impact the specialty-equipment and motorsports industries. He is serving his first term representing District 107, containing the cities of Boyne City, Charlevoix, East Jordan, Harbor Springs, Mackinac Island, Petoskey, Sault Ste. Marie and St. Ignace. Rep. Fairbairn sits on the Regulatory Reform Committee as vice chair, the Natural Resources and Tourism, Communication and Technology, and Energy Committees. He is familiar with the industry and has previously attended the SEMA Show. 

A key topic discussed during Rep. Fairbairn's visit was SEMA's top state legislative priority heading into 2026: protecting race tracks from nuisance claims, specifically when tracks were built before nearby development occurred. Preserving race tracks by shielding them from civil lawsuits is essential to sustaining grassroots motorsports and supporting the broader automotive culture. SEMA will continue its advocacy efforts in the next legislative session to ensure racetracks are protected and motorsports can continue to thrive in Michigan and beyond.

A Local Example of the Aftermarket's National Clout 

The visit is part of SEMA's ongoing effort to build strong relationships with lawmakers, educate them on the aftermarket industry's priorities and ensure that the future of automotive innovation, from performance to personalization, remains protected and supported in the state that is the heart of the American auto industry.  

Founded in 1977, Classic Instruments designs, engineers and manufactures custom gauges from its 14,000-sq.-ft. headquarters, where it employs a dedicated team of 25. Classic Instruments is a pillar of the local community and has earned numerous awards for its support of law enforcement, fire departments and local sports organizations. Its reputation and community involvement made it a natural stop to host Rep. Fairbairn. 

Michigan's specialty equipment aftermarket and performance racing industries make a significant contribution to the state's economy. The specialty-equipment market generates $34.67 billion in total economic impact, supports 116,186 jobs, provides $9.46 billion in wages and benefits and contributes $3.53 billion in taxes paid. Moreover, Michigan's racing industry accounts for $6.95 billion in total economic impact, supports 24,643 jobs, provides $1.86 billion in wages and benefits and contributes $791.75 million in taxes paid annually. 

Host Your Own Tour 

Hosting local lawmakers at your facility is a valuable opportunity to highlight your business, introduce your team and build stronger connections with those shaping public policy. These visits are especially impactful when elected officials witness the skill, dedication and pride that go into the work at small, family-owned operations which serve as the heart of the automotive aftermarket. Seeing your shop in action puts a human face on the policies they consider. It reinforces that behind every regulation are real people, quality jobs and local communities. 

If you are interested in hosting a lawmaker at your facility, SEMA's Government Affairs team is here to help make it happen. Contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs, at tierrah@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Neon Trees, known for their chart-topping anthems like "Animal" and "Everybody Talks," will bring their signature mix of infectious pop-rock and vibrant stage presence to SEMA Fest 2025 in Las Vegas on Friday, November 7. With their dynamic sound and high-energy live show, they’re set to deliver a performance for the ages to help close out the 2025 SEMA Show alongside headliners Queens of the Stone Age and southern rock royalty The Black Crowes.

SEMA Fest, of course, is more than just a concert--it's a full-throttle celebration where music meets motorsports. Between sets, fans can check out wild custom builds, jaw-dropping drifting demos and burnouts, lifestyle vendors, and the kind of festival vibes you can only find among like-minded enthusiasts during SEMA Show week in Las Vegas.

This is your chance to lock in your spot at one of the most unforgettable nights of the year. SEMA Fest 2025 tickets start at just $70 (including taxes and fees; as of 9/9/2025). SEMA Fest ticket provider Tixr offers payment plans, where guests will pay the full ticket price in recurring payments until a final date determined when purchasing the tickets. Tickets must be paid for by the final payment date to be valid at the event. Complete payment plan details and an agreement are available on semafest.com when purchasing tickets.

🔗 Visit semafest.com for tickets, updates and full event details.

📩 Have questions? Email info@semafest.com.

🤝 For sponsorship or partnership inquiries, contact partnership@semafest.com.

This article was originally published on September 8, 2025. Prices subject to change.

By SEMA News Editors

Ford Performance Relaunches as Ford Racing 

The new global identity unifies motorsports and production vehicle development under one banner.

Ford has announced that its performance division will now operate under the name Ford Racing, marking a renewed commitment to aligning motorsports programs with the development of production vehicles, the company said.

The transition to Ford Racing reflects a global strategy that integrates engineering, design and technology from Ford's racing efforts directly into its consumer lineup. Aerodynamic and performance innovations proven in competition will influence future production vehicles, including the Mustang and F-150 Raptor.

"The technology we validate in the world's most demanding racing environments will inform the vehicles we deliver to customers," said Will Ford, general manager, Ford Racing. "This is a direct line from the track to the driveway."

Ford Racing will debut its first production vehicle born from this new approach in January 2026. The launch coincides with Ford's participation in high-profile events including the Dakar Rally, the Rolex 24 at Daytona, and the FIA World Endurance Championship season opener.

The division will also expand customer engagement through racing schools and off-road driving experiences, designed to showcase the real-world applications of Ford Racing technologies.

Ford Racing will continue competing at the highest levels of global motorsport, including Formula 1, the World Rally Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

For more information, visit the Ford website.

Mercedes-AMG Unveils GT2 Edition W16

Limited to just 30 units, the track-only GT2 Edition W16 blends Formula 1® technology with GT racing DNA.

The Mercedes-AMG Motorsport portfolio is expanding to include a new, highly attractive model: the Mercedes-AMG GT2 Edition W16, a limited-production track car delivering up to 818 hp--the most powerful customer racing car ever built by the brand.

Inspired by the Mercedes-AMG F1 W16 E PERFORMANCE, the model features a Push2Pass system, drag reduction system (DRS), lightweight magnesium wheels and a hand-painted livery accented in PETRONAS green. Only 30 units will be built, each signed by F1 driver Kimi Antonelli. Deliveries will take place at a European race track, where owners will also enjoy a meet-and-greet with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Designed exclusively for track use, the GT2 Edition W16 is positioned as both a performance benchmark and an exclusive ownership experience.

Read more information, including technical specs, on the Mercedes-Benz USA website.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

It was another newsworthy series of days for international trade and tariffs. Here's the latest:

A major court ruling. A federal appeals court ruled that the tariffs President Trump imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) are unlawful and exceed IEEPA's authority. The 7-4 ruling takes effect on October 14, giving the Trump administration time to appeal the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court.

If upheld, the ruling could:

• Require the federal government to repay businesses for IEEPA tariffs previously collected. Click here for a link to country-by-country tariff rates.
• Impact trade deals that the Trump Administration has struck with the European Union, Japan, South Korea and other major trading partners that provide reduced reciprocal tariff rates on their imports (compared to the tariff rates the President first proposed in April).
•  
• Impact IEEPA tariffs imposed on China, Canada and Mexico.
  • Canada (EO 14193) and Mexico (EO 14194): 25% tariff for goods that do not claim or qualify for USMCA duty-free preference, and a 10% tariff for energy and potash imports that do not claim or qualify for USMCA duty-free preference. 
  • China (EO 14195): 20% tariff for all goods from China. 

Canada Acts on Retaliatory Tariffs on United States Exports

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in late August announced that Canada will remove many of its retaliatory tariffs on American goods in an effort to align Canada's tariff regime with United States exemptions under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The changes were effective September 1, although tariffs on American steel, aluminum and automobiles remain in place. However, automotive parts that comply with USMCA remain tariff free.

Canada continues to apply a 25% tariff on non-USMCA-compliant American vehicles. In addition, even vehicles that qualify under USMCA can face a 25% duty on non-Canadian or non-Mexican content. These tariffs were adopted as countermeasures to American trade actions earlier this year and remain in force pending further negotiations.

On the United States side, automobiles and certain categories of auto parts imported from Canada and Mexico are subject to a 25% tariff unless they qualify under USMCA. USMCA-compliant parts remain tariff-free, but the U.S. Department of Commerce has indicated that tariffs may eventually be calculated only on the non-United States content within otherwise compliant goods.

The announcements followed a phone call between President Trump and Prime Minister Carney, during which both sides discussed trade, security and the potential for renewed negotiations. Canada's move was described as an effort to de-escalate tensions and preserve a framework for future talks.

More Clarity on Derivative Tariffs, Stacking

The U.S. Department of Commerce recently expanded Section 232 to cover 407 additional steel and aluminum derivative products, which are subject to a 50% tariff on their metal content. When looking at the potential impact of this increased tariff, it's important to look at "tariff stacking," which outlines below how it works. Executive Order 14289 (April 2025) and subsequent CBP guidance created a hierarchy to reduce overlap on Section 232 duties--especially in autos and metals--while leaving most other tariffs cumulative.

1. Automobiles and Auto Parts: Highest priority; if these tariffs apply, no other Section 232 or IEEPA duties attach to the same product.
2. Aluminum: Applies only to the aluminum content; non-aluminum components can still face lower-tier tariffs.
3. Steel: Same principle as aluminum: duty covers steel content only, with other materials potentially subject to additional tariffs.
4. IEEPA Canada and Mexico
   • These tariffs only apply if the auto/auto parts, aluminum and steel tariffs do not.
   • USMCA-qualified articles are exempt from IEEPA tariffs.

Outside this hierarchy, rates, global surcharges, Section 301 (China) and reciprocal tariffs generally stack, often pushing cumulative duties for China-origin goods above 40–70. Accurate HTS classification, supply-chain mapping and mitigation strategies (e.g., tariff engineering or shifting origin) are now essential to control landed costs.

HTS Codes Related to Automobiles Impact by Derivative Item Tariffs

Below is a running list of Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) codes in the motor vehicle space that are subject to derivative tariffs. Note: some vehicular tariffs are for agricultural equipment components.

This article was originally published on September 4, 2025

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

It was another newsworthy series of days for international trade and tariffs. Here's the latest:

A major court ruling. A federal appeals court ruled that the tariffs President Trump imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) are unlawful and exceed IEEPA's authority. The 7-4 ruling takes effect on October 14, giving the Trump administration time to appeal the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court.

If upheld, the ruling could:

• Require the federal government to repay businesses for IEEPA tariffs previously collected. Click here for a link to country-by-country tariff rates.
• Impact trade deals that the Trump Administration has struck with the European Union, Japan, South Korea and other major trading partners that provide reduced reciprocal tariff rates on their imports (compared to the tariff rates the President first proposed in April).
•  
• Impact IEEPA tariffs imposed on China, Canada and Mexico.
  • Canada (EO 14193) and Mexico (EO 14194): 25% tariff for goods that do not claim or qualify for USMCA duty-free preference, and a 10% tariff for energy and potash imports that do not claim or qualify for USMCA duty-free preference. 
  • China (EO 14195): 20% tariff for all goods from China. 

Canada Acts on Retaliatory Tariffs on United States Exports

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in late August announced that Canada will remove many of its retaliatory tariffs on American goods in an effort to align Canada's tariff regime with United States exemptions under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The changes were effective September 1, although tariffs on American steel, aluminum and automobiles remain in place. However, automotive parts that comply with USMCA remain tariff free.

Canada continues to apply a 25% tariff on non-USMCA-compliant American vehicles. In addition, even vehicles that qualify under USMCA can face a 25% duty on non-Canadian or non-Mexican content. These tariffs were adopted as countermeasures to American trade actions earlier this year and remain in force pending further negotiations.

On the United States side, automobiles and certain categories of auto parts imported from Canada and Mexico are subject to a 25% tariff unless they qualify under USMCA. USMCA-compliant parts remain tariff-free, but the U.S. Department of Commerce has indicated that tariffs may eventually be calculated only on the non-United States content within otherwise compliant goods.

The announcements followed a phone call between President Trump and Prime Minister Carney, during which both sides discussed trade, security and the potential for renewed negotiations. Canada's move was described as an effort to de-escalate tensions and preserve a framework for future talks.

More Clarity on Derivative Tariffs, Stacking

The U.S. Department of Commerce recently expanded Section 232 to cover 407 additional steel and aluminum derivative products, which are subject to a 50% tariff on their metal content. When looking at the potential impact of this increased tariff, it's important to look at "tariff stacking," which outlines below how it works. Executive Order 14289 (April 2025) and subsequent CBP guidance created a hierarchy to reduce overlap on Section 232 duties--especially in autos and metals--while leaving most other tariffs cumulative.

1. Automobiles and Auto Parts: Highest priority; if these tariffs apply, no other Section 232 or IEEPA duties attach to the same product.
2. Aluminum: Applies only to the aluminum content; non-aluminum components can still face lower-tier tariffs.
3. Steel: Same principle as aluminum: duty covers steel content only, with other materials potentially subject to additional tariffs.
4. IEEPA Canada and Mexico
   • These tariffs only apply if the auto/auto parts, aluminum and steel tariffs do not.
   • USMCA-qualified articles are exempt from IEEPA tariffs.

Outside this hierarchy, rates, global surcharges, Section 301 (China) and reciprocal tariffs generally stack, often pushing cumulative duties for China-origin goods above 40–70. Accurate HTS classification, supply-chain mapping and mitigation strategies (e.g., tariff engineering or shifting origin) are now essential to control landed costs.

HTS Codes Related to Automobiles Impact by Derivative Item Tariffs

Below is a running list of Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) codes in the motor vehicle space that are subject to derivative tariffs. Note: some vehicular tariffs are for agricultural equipment components.

This article was originally published on September 4, 2025

By SEMA News Editors

ICON Vehicle Dynamics

Leveling Kit for '24-'25 Ford Ranger Raptor

ICON Alloys' 2.25-in. lift front coilover spacer kit is designed as an easy and inexpensive way to lift the front-end of '24-'25 Ford Ranger Raptor pickup trucks while keeping the OE coilover shock assemblies. Specifically designed to maintain full functionality of the stock electronic shock system, these billet aluminum coilover spacers provide 2.25-in. of front lift over stock for a more aggressive, level stance and easier fitment of larger, more aggressive wheel and tire combinations without overextending the stock front upper control arm ball joints. This spacer kit also prevents over-cycling of the CV joints as the suspension approaches full extension. CNC machined from 6061 billet aluminum with a black anodized finish for corrosion resistance.

iconvehicledynamics.com

Holley

RetroBright LED Forward Facing Light

Holley's RetroBright LED headlights deliver modern performance in a classic design with plug-and-play compatibility, improved visibility and up to six times longer life than traditional sealed beams. The low-profile housings fit most shallow headlight buckets without cutting or drilling, while a built-in PWM LED driver keeps light output consistent during extended use.

Developed in collaboration with Morimoto, the RetroBright lineup produces nearly three times more light than stock headlights--up to 53,000 candela on high beam--and is available in popular 5.75-in. round, 7-in. round, 4x6-in. rectangular, and 5x7-in. rectangular sizes. Options include 3,000K or 5,700K color temperatures, plus yellow lenses for European styling.

holley.com

SmokED Stuff

Tread Lightly! Adventure Rub

Tread Lightly!, a U.S.-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting responsible outdoor recreation through stewardship and educational programs, is announcing the creation of the Tread Lightly! Adventure Rub, a new spice by SmokED Stuff with benefits supporting Tread Lightly! 's mission.

The Tread Lightly! Adventure Rub is a robust blend of ground coffee, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, creating a perfect seasoning for your outdoor grilling adventures.

Florida locals can try the Tread Lightly! Adventure Rub at Jeeptober Fest in Ocala, Florida, October 10-12, or at the Jeepalooza Beach Jam, October 22-25. It can also be purchased online here.

treadlightly.org

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