From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

A recent shift in federal enforcement policy is bringing clarity to the automotive aftermarket and enthusiast communities.

SEMA is applauding the Jan. 21 announcement by the U.S. Department of Justice that it will exercise its enforcement discretion for Clean Air Act violations related to tampering with onboard diagnostic (OBD) devices on vehicles and no longer pursue criminal charges in such cases.

This announcement only reflects the enforcement discretion of the current administration. The statutes of limitation for such violations go beyond the term of any single president or administration, and future administrations may view such enforcement differently.

"This is a welcome end to overly harsh penalties for violations that are otherwise addressed through civil enforcement," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA believes in following the law, and federal law is clear with regard to tampering of emissions systems or profiting from the sales of products that enable such behavior. SEMA remains committed to working with federal regulators at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to ensure our industry has a voice in the development of policies impacting compliance with federal and state laws with regard to emissions and safety, and creating a path for our industry to continue its innovation."

BACKGROUND

OBD tampering involves altering a vehicle's electronic systems or software, primarily to defeat emissions controls or commit mileage fraud, both of which are illegal under federal and state laws in the U.S.

Violators are subject to significant civil penalties (up to $37,500 for each part or component) and, until this announcement, even criminal prosecution, with the potential for prison terms.

SEMA has invested heavily through its SEMA Garage program to provide its members with pathways to navigate federal and state emissions.

The SEMA Certified Emissions (SC-E) program is a documented pathway for demonstrating that an aftermarket part doesn't increase the emissions of a vehicle on which it's installed. The program was designed around the guidance of the EPA's Tampering Policy as a means to offer aftermarket companies:

• An accelerated path to emissions compliance, allowing products to be legally sold in 49 states prior to receiving a California Air Resources Board (CARB) EO.
• Create an industry-wide standard for "reasonable basis."
• Create a centralized database for compliant products.
• Provide legitimacy to the claim "EPA compliant."
• Establish a path to compliance for certain products that are unable to receive a CARB EO.

ABOUT SEMA

SEMA (the Specialty Equipment Market Association) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell, and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun, and even like new again. Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy and more. The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates $52.3 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Scharfsinn

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

A recent shift in federal enforcement policy is bringing clarity to the automotive aftermarket and enthusiast communities.

SEMA is applauding the Jan. 21 announcement by the U.S. Department of Justice that it will exercise its enforcement discretion for Clean Air Act violations related to tampering with onboard diagnostic (OBD) devices on vehicles and no longer pursue criminal charges in such cases.

This announcement only reflects the enforcement discretion of the current administration. The statutes of limitation for such violations go beyond the term of any single president or administration, and future administrations may view such enforcement differently.

"This is a welcome end to overly harsh penalties for violations that are otherwise addressed through civil enforcement," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA believes in following the law, and federal law is clear with regard to tampering of emissions systems or profiting from the sales of products that enable such behavior. SEMA remains committed to working with federal regulators at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to ensure our industry has a voice in the development of policies impacting compliance with federal and state laws with regard to emissions and safety, and creating a path for our industry to continue its innovation."

BACKGROUND

OBD tampering involves altering a vehicle's electronic systems or software, primarily to defeat emissions controls or commit mileage fraud, both of which are illegal under federal and state laws in the U.S.

Violators are subject to significant civil penalties (up to $37,500 for each part or component) and, until this announcement, even criminal prosecution, with the potential for prison terms.

SEMA has invested heavily through its SEMA Garage program to provide its members with pathways to navigate federal and state emissions.

The SEMA Certified Emissions (SC-E) program is a documented pathway for demonstrating that an aftermarket part doesn't increase the emissions of a vehicle on which it's installed. The program was designed around the guidance of the EPA's Tampering Policy as a means to offer aftermarket companies:

• An accelerated path to emissions compliance, allowing products to be legally sold in 49 states prior to receiving a California Air Resources Board (CARB) EO.
• Create an industry-wide standard for "reasonable basis."
• Create a centralized database for compliant products.
• Provide legitimacy to the claim "EPA compliant."
• Establish a path to compliance for certain products that are unable to receive a CARB EO.

ABOUT SEMA

SEMA (the Specialty Equipment Market Association) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell, and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun, and even like new again. Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy and more. The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates $52.3 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Scharfsinn

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

A recent shift in federal enforcement policy is bringing clarity to the automotive aftermarket and enthusiast communities.

SEMA is applauding the Jan. 21 announcement by the U.S. Department of Justice that it will exercise its enforcement discretion for Clean Air Act violations related to tampering with onboard diagnostic (OBD) devices on vehicles and no longer pursue criminal charges in such cases.

This announcement only reflects the enforcement discretion of the current administration. The statutes of limitation for such violations go beyond the term of any single president or administration, and future administrations may view such enforcement differently.

"This is a welcome end to overly harsh penalties for violations that are otherwise addressed through civil enforcement," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA believes in following the law, and federal law is clear with regard to tampering of emissions systems or profiting from the sales of products that enable such behavior. SEMA remains committed to working with federal regulators at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to ensure our industry has a voice in the development of policies impacting compliance with federal and state laws with regard to emissions and safety, and creating a path for our industry to continue its innovation."

BACKGROUND

OBD tampering involves altering a vehicle's electronic systems or software, primarily to defeat emissions controls or commit mileage fraud, both of which are illegal under federal and state laws in the U.S.

Violators are subject to significant civil penalties (up to $37,500 for each part or component) and, until this announcement, even criminal prosecution, with the potential for prison terms.

SEMA has invested heavily through its SEMA Garage program to provide its members with pathways to navigate federal and state emissions.

The SEMA Certified Emissions (SC-E) program is a documented pathway for demonstrating that an aftermarket part doesn't increase the emissions of a vehicle on which it's installed. The program was designed around the guidance of the EPA's Tampering Policy as a means to offer aftermarket companies:

• An accelerated path to emissions compliance, allowing products to be legally sold in 49 states prior to receiving a California Air Resources Board (CARB) EO.
• Create an industry-wide standard for "reasonable basis."
• Create a centralized database for compliant products.
• Provide legitimacy to the claim "EPA compliant."
• Establish a path to compliance for certain products that are unable to receive a CARB EO.

ABOUT SEMA

SEMA (the Specialty Equipment Market Association) serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell, and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer, fun, and even like new again. Business member benefits include product development resources, market research, networking, education, legislative advocacy and more. The Association organizes the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, and actively supports the career and business opportunities that the aftermarket generates. The industry contributes nearly $337 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, supports 1.3 million jobs nationally, and generates $52.3 billion in parts sales annually. For more information, visit sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Scharfsinn

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

British Statement: Rolls-Royce's All-Electric SUV
 

Rolls-Royce began sales of its first electric vehicle in 2023 with the launch of the Spectre coupe. It has proven to be a major success, with order books filled through 2025 even before production began.

The automaker is not resting on its laurels. According to Automotive News, Rolls-Royce is already developing two additional EVs: a sedan and an SUV. The latter was recently snapped by our photographer braving frigid conditions near the Arctic Circle in Sweden.

The news comes as little surprise. During the Spectre's reveal in 2022, Rolls-Royce announced plans to transition exclusively to electric vehicles by the end of 2030. That said, several automakers that made similar pledges have since backtracked due to slower-than-expected EV demand growth, and Rolls-Royce could ultimately follow suit.

Automotive News reports that the electric SUV is slated to launch in early 2027. It will reportedly be smaller than the current Cullinan but still occupy the full-size segment. The sedan is expected to arrive in late 2028, replacing the Phantom.

It remains unclear whether the new EVs will ride on a dedicated electric platform or continue using Rolls-Royce's aluminum space-frame architecture, which underpins both its gas-powered models and the Spectre. What does seem likely is a notable range increase over the Spectre's 425-km rating, driven by ongoing advancements in battery technology. Parent company BMW Group recently launched the iX3, the first model in a new generation of BMW EVs, delivering a 30% range improvement thanks to cylindrical battery cells instead of current prismatic designs.
 

Same Same but Different: The VW ID.4 Becomes the ID.Tiguan

The next-generation Volkswagen ID.4 has been spotted sporting a dramatically revised look ahead of its official debut later this year. In fact, the changes are said to be so extensive that the model may receive an entirely new name: ID.Tiguan. Volkswagen has yet to confirm what its midsize electric SUV will ultimately be called.

The nearly all-new model will compete with major EV rivals, including the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Skoda Enyaq and new Chinese entries such as the BYD Sealion 7. Pricing is expected to start just under $47,000. The rumored renaming aligns with a completely new body design, though the ID.4's core proportions appear to remain intact.

The prototype reveals a fresh design language characterized by cleaner surfaces and sharper lines. One criticism of the current ID.4 is its bulky appearance, which some argue clashes with VW's traditional emphasis on solidity and stability. That perception appears to be addressed here. Beneath the camouflage, flatter door sills and more angular lower bumpers are visible, giving the vehicle a stronger, more grounded stance.

Up front, the ID.Tiguan features an entirely new fascia, with headlights set within a distinctive frame. As seen on the ID.Polo and ID.Cross, this lighting element is expected to span the vehicle's width and be accented by a large, illuminated VW badge at the center.

At the rear, the lighting signature mirrors that of the ID.Polo and ID.Cross, housed within a gray surround. The unusual fins flanking the license plate are merely camouflage elements and will not carry over to production. Beyond the exterior, the ID.Tiguan is also expected to receive a refreshed interior. A VW insider confirmed updates consistent with recent brand changes, including a return to physical buttons for key functions such as climate and steering wheel controls, moving away from touch-sensitive interfaces.

Details surrounding battery and motor configurations remain under wraps. Currently, the ID.4 is offered with 52-kWh and 77-kWh battery options, paired with either a single rear-mounted motor or a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup.

VW is expected to introduce lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for the ID.Tiguan, a move that could significantly reduce costs and help lower entry-level pricing across future ID models. While LFP batteries are less energy-dense than nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) units, VW plans to offset this with a new cell-to-pack design that allows more cells to be packaged within the vehicle.

It is unlikely the ID.Tiguan will receive the smallest 38 kWh LFP battery slated for the upcoming ID.Polo. However, increased capacity could allow the SUV to achieve a range of nearly 250 miles (400 km) or more on a single charge.

This layout eliminates the need for a battery frame. Three rows of prismatic cells are positioned side by side, with a cooling plate mounted atop the pack, helping reduce overall costs. Longer-range versions of the ID.Tiguan are expected to retain NMC batteries, delivering an estimated range of around nearly 342 miles (550 km) for top-tier variants.

Just a Few Changes: The Mercedes CLE Coupe Receives a Facelift

Our spy photographers captured a prototype of the refreshed Mercedes CLE Coupe during on-road testing in Scandinavia.

Visual differences between the upcoming '27 CLE Coupe and the outgoing '26 model are easy to spot, particularly up front. The updated model features star-pattern headlights, along with a revised grille and what appears to be a redesigned front bumper with new air intakes and trim elements.

The scooped test vehicle may suggest an unchanged rear end, but appearances are deceiving. As an early pre-production prototype, the car is expected to receive visual updates at the back as well, including new taillights likely incorporating the star motif, along with a revised bumper, diffuser and possibly updated tailpipe trim.

Given that the CLE entered production just over two years ago, the interior remains relatively fresh. As a result, major cabin updates are unlikely. Instead, changes may be limited to new software for the portrait-oriented infotainment screen and digital instrument cluster, along with a revised steering wheel and refreshed ADAS features.

Powertrain updates remain uncertain, though sources suggest the facelifted CLE will retain the same engine lineup. Expect pricing to increase slightly when the updated model debuts, likely for the '27 or '28 model year.

By SEMA News Editors

Pictured (Left to Right): John Storms, president and CEO, Madico, Inc.; Scott Davidson, president, Johnson Window Films, Inc.; William Davidson, director of sales and marketing, Johnson Window Films, Inc.; and Lawrence Constantin, vice president sales and marketing, window film, Madico, Inc. Image courtesy of Madico, Inc.

Madico, Inc. and Johnson Window Films, Inc. recently announced that Madico has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Johnson Laminating and Coating and Johnson Window Film.

Madico will assume responsibility for all Johnson Window Film manufacturing, sales, customer service and American and European operations, with a focus on maintaining business continuity. Many Johnson employees will join Madico as part of the transition, including William Davidson, Scott's son, who will continue to lead the Johnson Window Film brand under Madico ownership.

Johnson's distribution operations in California and Memphis will be integrated across Madico's eight North American distribution centers, with primary support from Madico's global headquarters location in Pinellas Park, Florida, and Madico's Huntington Beach, California location to support the Southern California market. Madico is also acquiring Johnson's Amsterdam-based business, ensuring continued support for Johnson customers throughout Europe.

Founded in 1973 by Alan Johnson, the Johnson family of brands--beginning with Johnson Laminating and Coating and later expanding to Johnson Window Films--has produced window films for more than 50 years.

"This transition represents a natural and values-driven next chapter for the Johnson brand," said Scott Davidson, president and second-generation owner of Johnson Window Films. "As the world continues to get smaller and more competitive, we believe the best way to ensure a strong long-term future for our Johnson customers and brand is to team up with Madico. Madico shares the same commitment to quality, integrity and customer satisfaction that my father built this business on and that I have worked hard to maintain for over 30 years. As I look towards the future, I am confident that Johnson Window Films is in excellent hands."

"The business combination brings complementary strengths to both brands," the companies said in a statement announcing the acquisition. "From each brand's strong product lineup and excellent customer service to Madico's well-established 120-year history, eight North America distribution centers, and 250,000-sq.-ft., state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Tampa Bay, Florida, the acquisition will expand opportunities for both customers while preserving the identity and legacy of both brands."

"This acquisition is about alignment--of values, people, and customer-first philosophies," said Lawrence Constantin, vice president of sales and marketing for Madico Window Film. "Johnson Window Films has built something special over the past 50 years, and we are honored to carry the Johnson legacy forward while investing in the brand, the people, and the customers who rely on it."

For more information, visit medico.com.

By Ashley Reyes

It takes more than a passion for cars to succeed as a leader in the automotive aftermarket. Effective leadership is learned from a combination of experience, guidance and opportunities to grow, and thanks to the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Women's Leadership Forum, female professionals will have that opportunity.  

Taking place March 3-5 in San Diego, California, the Forum will provide women in the industry with practical leadership strategies they can apply immediately, ultimately benefiting employers who rely on their leaders to guide teams through change and growth. 

This year's theme is From Insight to Impact and will focus on timely, relevant tools to build confident, capable women leaders.  

Top takeaways:  

• Industry-focused insights: Keynotes and panels focused on leadership, innovation and trends shaping the automotive aftermarket.
• Skill-building workshops: Hands-on sessions that strengthen communication, strategic thinking and decision-making.
• Confidence development: Tools to help women lead with authority, navigate challenges and influence outcomes.
• Networking and mentorship: Connections with peers, executives and industry leaders across the automotive sector. 
• Measurable business impact: Actionable takeaways that enhance leadership performance and organizational effectiveness.

Early registration is just $799 for SBN members and $999 for non-members through February 1. After that, the price increases to $899 for SBN members and $1,099 for non-members up until the day of the conference.  

If you're serious about advancing your career and increasing your impact within your organization, this is the moment to act. Secure your spot, take advantage of early registration pricing and join a community of women committed to shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket 

Explore the full program and register now at www.sema.org/sbn-wlf. 

By Ashley Reyes

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping how businesses communicate with customers, manage workflows and make decisions. However, many automotive aftermarket professionals are still seeking clarity on how to best apply these tools in ways that benefit their business. 

On February 10, at 12:00 p.m. PST/3:00 p.m. EST, the virtual education session "AI for Beginners -- Session 1: Understanding the Basics and Building Confidence," will help aftermarket professionals demystify what AI does well, where it struggles and how it applies to both small shops and large manufacturing teams. Attendees will gain basic skills for writing effective prompts, explore beginner-friendly tools and see real-world aftermarket applications that can save time, boost productivity and spark new ideas.

Following the webinar, attendees will: 

• Understand what AI is (and isn't) in an aftermarket context.
• Know where AI tools are most effective and where they fall short.
• Have foundational skills in writing simple, effective prompts that generate useful results.
• Be familiar with starter use cases for small businesses (customer communication, invoicing, marketing) and manufacturers (trend analysis, process optimization, documentation).
• Have the confidence to explore AI without needing technical expertise.
• Be aware of high-level data risks.  

This session will be moderated by Kelleigh Shankel, technology and operations executive and founder at Limelight Logic, and feature panelists Annette Bauer, founder and creative director of motorsports marketing and photography at Annette Bauer Creative; Gwen Hawver, founder and CEO at Vision Interface; Lauren McCullough, founder and CEO at Tromml; and Amanda Van Den Elzen, founder at Racer on Demand LLC.

If AI feels important but overwhelming, this session will give you a clear, practical starting point. Register here and gain the foundational knowledge you need to work smarter, make better decisions and stay competitive as AI becomes more common across the industry.

Feed image courtesy of Tadamichi

By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Honda, SEMA Garage is hosting an exclusive measuring session next month for the new '26 Honda Prelude.

Scheduled for February 10-11 at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, the measuring session will give participants an exclusive first-look at the highly anticipated vehicle and access to critical dimensions for product development.

Aftermarket manufacturers can reserve a time slot now, but don't wait because space is limited.

Advance RSVP is required. Only RSVP for one session per company.

SEMA Garage Honda Prelude Measuring Session

February 10 - 11, 2026

1577 Valley Vista Dr.

Diamond Bar, CA 91765

View on Google Maps

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Brandyn Townsend, customer care specialist at Smithers, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

Get to know Townsend in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received? 

Brandyn Townsend: Sacrifice today for a better tomorrow. I decided after earning an associate's degree in automotive to go back to school in my late 20s to get an engineering degree. I am still working on it, and I know once it is complete it will help me in the future. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

BT: I enjoy seeing the advances that this industry has made. I have loved racing, cars and motors since I was 10 years old. Since then, my jobs have always been in the automotive industry. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

BT: I can be found at one of my daughter's sporting events, baseball or hockey game or the local circle track. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

BT: Look over the material a few times and have my notes ready. There is nothing worse than going into an important meeting unprepared. 

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be? 

BT: Dale Earnhardt Jr. 

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates. 

By SEMA News Editors

Expedition Motor Company

6.2L LS3 V8-Powered 620GE Wolf Series G-Wagen

Expedition Motor Company has opened commissions for its 6.2L LS3 V8-powered 620GE Wolf Series G-Wagen. The 430hp LS3 engine option delivers torque and responsiveness, and is supported by an AMG braking system and a six-speed automatic transmission. An enhanced cooling system and double-cardan driveline support the drivetrain, along with proprietary components manufactured by EMC. Additional features include a Harman sound system, wireless Apple CarPlay, air conditioning and heated seats.

expeditionmotorcompany.com

A.E.D. Metal Products

Heavy-Walled Docol Advanced High-Strength Steel Tubes

A.E.D. is now offering .12-in. wall tubes for off-road trucks and buggies. This high-strength steel tube has performance values superior to aircraft-grade 4130 tube with similar fabrication characteristics.

aedmetals.com