From the Washington, D.C., office

SEMA, on behalf of the nation's automotive aftermarket industry and millions of automotive enthusiasts across the U.S., issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives' 246-164 vote to overturn California's Clean Air Act waiver for the state's Advanced Clean Cars II policy (a.k.a. electric-vehicle ((EV)) mandates or internal combustion engine ((ICE)) vehicle ban): 

If you're going to force 40% of the nation to do your bidding, you better deliver a stronger policy than California's Advanced Clean Cars II, which will cripple the economy, force families into vehicles they can't afford, and saddle communities with an untenable, impractical edict with which to contend. California would have you believe there is a pot of gold at the end of the EV rainbow, in the form of millions of jobs installing chargers and expanding the grid, but in truth California would have on their hands the blood of an entire, legacy automotive industry that Americans have grown to rely upon and trust. 

Lawmakers in the House on both sides of the aisle see through these lies and understand what's at stake, and we thank them for slamming the door on EV mandates by voting in favor of a Congressional Review Act resolution to strike down California's Clean Air Act waiver. Their bipartisan vote will preserve vehicle choice nationwide, particularly at a time when people are keeping vehicles longer, using them to transport their families, and kickstart businesses and careers. 

We're on to the Senate. It's time for Senate Republicans and Democrats to stand up, declare that California does not speak for our nation, that the Golden State's policies are not solutions to our country's issues, and that it is not partisan to say, "I believe in American ingenuity, not mandates." The Senate must now vote to reclaim what California has stolen: our nation's ability to bring all options to the table in service of solving the carbon emissions conundrum. 

HOW YOU CAN HELP

ACT NOW: SEMA made it easy for industry members to make their voices heard on this crucial matter with just a few clicks. Learn more ⁠here or click below to support automotive technology innovation.

BACKGROUND  

SEMA represents the automotive aftermarket industry, a third of which are businesses that are entirely dependent on products for ICE vehicles. To enact an ICE vehicle ban through EV mandates would represent a significant hit to the nation's economy by causing irreparable harm to an industry that annually delivers a $337 billion economic impact and supports more than 1.3 million American jobs through domestic manufacturing and sales.  

• 33% of the nation's automotive aftermarket industry is ICE-dependent, representing more than $100 billion in economic impact to the U.S. economy, and impacts roughly 330,000 jobs.  

SEMA is not anti-EV; rather, it champions a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity. The association will continue efforts to preserve Americans' rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry's ability to design, manufacture, and bring to market products that help solve the emissions challenge.  

SEMA and a coalition of 335 small businesses from the automotive aftermarket in early April urged House of Representatives and Senate leadership to hold votes to put an immediate stop to the implementation of the Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation.  

During the 2024 presidential campaign, SEMA, through its Driving Force Action SuperPAC, educated voters about the damaging impact of EV mandates, and the profound importance of empowering the automotive aftermarket to develop innovative solutions to carbon emissions using American ingenuity.  

SEMA serves as a leading voice for the worldwide car culture, representing over 7,500 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, 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. 

By SEMA News Editors

Every year, the SEMA Show in Las Vegas brings the automotive aftermarket world together to see the latest products, innovations and technology that are shaping the future of the industry. The SEMA Show is where trends are born, connections are made and deals happen. For savvy exhibitors, one of the smartest moves they can make is to participate in the SEMA Show New Products Showcase--the No. 1 destination for SEMA Show buyers and a value-packed program designed to maximize visibility and drive booth traffic. And with the first product entry always free of charge, there's no excuse not to participate in this program that gets your products in front of media members, buyers, builders, business owners and more professionals.

"Nowhere else can we get to this many of our dealers and our consumers and show them new products that they get to touch and feel. Because on the internet, you just don't get that experience," said John Myers of KICKER Stillwater Designs.

Submissions are now at semashow.com/newproducts, and all exhibitors are encouraged to review the rules and submit early.

In addition to the product display on-site at the SEMA Show, every product is professionally photographed, promoted across official SEMA Show channels, and listed in a year-round online gallery that continues to generate exposure long after the Show ends. Even better, the 2025 SEMA Show app gives attendees and buyers the ability to scan items in the New Products Showcase (using the Product Scanner feature) and instantly map out where to find each exhibitor on the SEMA Show floor.

Even better, all eligible new product entries are considered for the 2026 SEMA New Product Awards and the SEMA Show Media's Choice Awards, providing even more brand exposure and recognition.

Enter your company's products at semashow.com/newproducts today! 

Exhibitors can continue to maximize their 2025 SEMA Show plans with the Exhibitor Service Manual (ESM), which is now available online. The entire ESM is the official exhibitor's handbook for success, in addition to the relationships they form with their SEMA sales representative, the SEMA media team and the SEMA Show department. 

In addition, exhibitors should consider attending the complimentary 2025 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit. SEMA will provide hotel rooms for up to two employees free of charge from June 25-27, in Las Vegas, and provide proven strategies straight from Show organizers to get the most ROI of the November event. Learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit and register for the program here.

Still have questions? Contact your SEMA Show sales representative at sales@sema.org, 909-396-0289 or semashow.com/contact. Still need booth space for the 2025 SEMA Show? Get started at semashow.com/buyabooth.

Note: Attendee registration is now open for the 2025 SEMA Show here. Exhibitors receive a certain allotment of badges for staff members based on booth size. To register additional staff members, exhibitors can do so for $50 per badge through Friday, June 27. After, the registration price will increase. Register here. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Left to right: West Virginia (WV) State Senator Chris Rose; WV State Senator Mark Maynard; Tierra Hubbard, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs; WV State Senator Ben Queen.

In a major victory for vehicle choice, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey on April 24 signed into law SB 573, a landmark automotive bill strongly supported by SEMA that prohibits the state from limiting the use, sale or purchase of motor vehicles based on their energy source. The bill effectively blocks potential future bans on internal-combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

SEMA's position on electric vehicle (EV) mandates is clear: innovation should be driven by consumer choice and industry ingenuity, not by restrictive government mandates. Government, therefore, should remain technology neutral.

West Virginia's law is a significant win for the specialty equipment industry. It ensures that businesses can continue to develop and sell performance- and emissions-related products for all types of vehicles, including gasoline, diesel, hybrid and electric. It preserves West Virginians' freedom to choose the vehicles that best suit their needs while supporting a diverse, thriving aftermarket industry.

SEMA will continue to advocate for similar laws at both the state and federal levels, protecting consumer rights and promoting an open, competitive landscape for automotive innovation.

For more information, please contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at tierrah@sema.org.

This story was originally published on Thursday, May 1.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Left to right: West Virginia (WV) State Senator Chris Rose; WV State Senator Mark Maynard; Tierra Hubbard, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs; WV State Senator Ben Queen.

In a major victory for vehicle choice, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey on April 24 signed into law SB 573, a landmark automotive bill strongly supported by SEMA that prohibits the state from limiting the use, sale or purchase of motor vehicles based on their energy source. The bill effectively blocks potential future bans on internal-combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

SEMA's position on electric vehicle (EV) mandates is clear: innovation should be driven by consumer choice and industry ingenuity, not by restrictive government mandates. Government, therefore, should remain technology neutral.

West Virginia's law is a significant win for the specialty equipment industry. It ensures that businesses can continue to develop and sell performance- and emissions-related products for all types of vehicles, including gasoline, diesel, hybrid and electric. It preserves West Virginians' freedom to choose the vehicles that best suit their needs while supporting a diverse, thriving aftermarket industry.

SEMA will continue to advocate for similar laws at both the state and federal levels, protecting consumer rights and promoting an open, competitive landscape for automotive innovation.

For more information, please contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at tierrah@sema.org.

This story was originally published on Thursday, May 1.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

The next-generation Jeep Compass has been spotted in full camouflage while testing in public, according to SEMA News sources.

The SUV will likely include a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) variant when it launches in Europe later this year, hinted at by the fully camouflaged Compass with a closed-off front grille, a clear indicator of its electric powertrain, as well as no clear tailpipe.

Adopting a new, more modern, rugged appearance, the new images of the Compass prototype show squared-off headlights and a bolder, more aggressive stance. Utilizing Stellantis' STLA Medium platform, the SUV is expected to grow slightly in size, providing additional interior space for passengers and cargo. The lineup will include both single-motor and dual-motor BEV configurations, with power outputs ranging from 213 hp to 350 hp.

Jeep will still offer an internal-combustion engine (ICE) version with a turbocharged 1.2L mild hybrid engine producing 136 hp. Additionally, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will pair a 1.6L inline four-cylinder engine with a 125 hp electric motor, delivering a combined 195 hp.

Stellantis has confirmed that the new Compass will debut in Europe this spring, followed by a mid-year launch in South America and a late-year reveal for North America. European models will be exclusively electrified, with the BEV 4xe version offering the only all-wheel-drive (AWD) option at launch. Production for the North American version is set to begin in 2026. The ICE-powered model will reportedly priority in the United States and Canada, according to sources.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Garage continues to host engaging, hands-on events in partnership with AUTEL. These two-day training sessions focus on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and help participants gain valuable knowledge on fundamentals, calibration techniques and necessary reporting practices. As the number of ADAS-equipped vehicles continues to grow, mastering the proper calibration of these systems is becoming increasingly vital. 

SEMA Garage Detroit will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, May 20, and Wednesday, May 21, at the facility located at 14655 Jib St., Plymouth, MI 48170.

RSVP for the upcoming session on the Autel website here (simply navigate to the "Detroit" tab under the first event), and keep an eye out for additional sessions later this calendar year.

For more information, contact academy@autel.com or visit the Autel website here.

By Ashley Reyes

Applications for women-owned businesses and organizations to host an activation at the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) booth at the 2025 SEMA Show close on Saturday, May 10.  

The SBN booth is the go-to destination for all women at the SEMA Show to network, learn, and engage with other female professionals in the aftermarket community. Partnering companies will host educational and networking activations throughout the four-day trade event, connecting their brand with thousands of industry professionals, enthusiasts and media members.  

To be eligible, companies must be a SEMA member business, be women-owned or operated (51% owned and involved in the day-to-day decisions and long-term decision-making) and support the advancement of women in the automotive aftermarket. 

SBN aims to feature multiple partner activations to provide an engaging and inclusive experience for attendees. Learn more and apply here.  

Contact SBN Council Director Nicole Bradle at 909-323-2149 or nicoleb@sema.org with any questions.

By SEMA News Editors

Motor State Distributing Announces 17th Annual Motor State Challenge, July 24-26

Motor State Distributing, the Watervliet, Michigan-based wholesale distributor of racing and performance parts, will host the 17th annual Motor State Challenge on July 24-26.

The three-day Pro-Touring event will test drivers' skills on the street, track and skidpad, and serve as a wildcard qualifier for the Optima Search for the Ultimate Street Car Finals in Las Vegas, held November 2-7.

Competing in everything from vintage muscle cars to modern sports car, and even a few modified trucks—participants will take to the track at GingerMan Raceway in southwest Michigan, then at the Tire Rack headquarters in South Bend, Indiana.

The event will feature multiple classes, including vintage, late model and manufacturer, as well as the QA1 #goDRIVEit class, which encourages racers to drive their vehicle to the event, race it and then drive it home.

For more information or to register for the event, visit motorstatechallenge.com.

Unser and Herzog Galleries Open at Museum of American Speed

The Museum of American Speed in Lincoln, Nebraska, recently celebrated the opening of the Unser and Herzog galleries in its newly expanded facility.

The new addition to space allowed the museum to add enhanced displays for NASCAR, off-road racing and grow the museum's already established land-speed, drag-racing and custom show-car displays, according to Curator Tim Matthews.

 "We've had a longtime relationship with the Unser and Herzog families and are honored to welcome their collections to the Museum of American Speed," Matthews said. "Over the last few years, we've worked closely with these amazing families to curate the exhibits and are excited to announce the opening of the galleries to the public."

Local dignitaries including Governor Jim Pillen, Mayor Lierion Gaylor Baird, members of the Unser and Herzog families, and Lisa Haight of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb were among those that shared remarks and participated in the ribbon cutting, held at the museum on April 25.

The museum now offers 240,000 sq.-ft. of exhibit space following its expansion.

For more information, visit museumofamericanspeed.org.

New ARC2 Rally2 Car Set to Be Unveiled at 2025 PRI Show

Braselton, Georgia-based rally car manufacturer JRD Motorsport is currently developing an all-new, American-built Rally2 car designed to compete in the American Rally Association (ARA) RC2 class, and will debut the new car at the 2025 PRI Show, December 11-13, downtown Indianapolis.

Built to a mixture of FIA RC2 technical specification and ARA Open Class regulations, the vehicle serves a growing need for cars that are as fast and spectacular as their European counterparts, JRD Motorsport representatives said, but at a purchase and maintenance cost more suited for the American market. The car will be powered by a bespoke spec engine prepared to match the performance of FIA Rally2 cars.

The company has been working alongside the ARA to develop the class, the car manufacturer said. 

Two-time World Rally Champion Marcus Grönholm is assisting in the development of the car as JRD's test driver.

For more information, visit JRD Motorsport.com.

For more information on the 2025 PRI Show, visit here. Attendee registration for the show opens in July.

By SEMA News Editors

RANDYS Worldwide Acquires BulletProof Hitches

RANDYS Worldwide has acquired BulletProof Hitches, a manufacturer of trailer hitch products, to strengthen RANDYS offerings to include towing solutions and accessories.

"With BulletProof Hitches joining the RANDYS family of brands, we are bringing together two companies that share the same passion for quality, innovation, and customer service," said Kevin Kaestner, president and CEO of RANDYS Worldwide. "Their industry-leading towing products perfectly complement our mission to provide top-tier solutions for truck and off-road enthusiasts."

BulletProof Hitches will continue to operate from its Bradenton, Florida, headquarters while utilizing the expanded reach of the RANDYS Worldwide supply chain, distribution network and engineering expertise.

For more information, visit randysworldwide.com or bulletproofhitches.com.

Classic Motorsports Monterey Kickoff Returning to Pacific Grove in 2025

The Classic Motorsports Monterey Kickoff will again be held in Pacific Grove, California, for 2025.

Kicking-off the Monterey Car Week festivities with a welcome party in downtown Pacific Grove, the event features numerous classic cars on display, as well as free admission for spectators, as is currently scheduled for Tuesday, August 12, from 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. PDT.

Limited to 200 pre-registered cars, the entry fee for vehicles is $95. No registrations will be accepted at the gate.

Click here for more information or to register a vehicle for the event.

Overland Expo West Shares Details for Flagstaff Event

Overland Expo is returning to Flagstaff, Arizona, for the annual Overland Expo West event on May 16-18.

The annual expo will feature more than 400 exhibitors and 300 hours of educational programming, including 150-plus classes on everything from vehicle recovery techniques to backcountry culinary skills.

"Overland Expo West is where this entire community began," says Jessica Kirchner, VP of consumer events and show director for Overland Expo. "From the very first gathering in 2009, we've grown into a global series—but Flagstaff remains our flagship. It's where overland legends gather, where gear debuts, and where lifelong adventure dreams take shape."

Other event highlights include the Overland Expo Film Festival, the Women Who Wander networking event and more.

For more information, visit overlandexpo.com.

Report: Chattanooga Motorcar Festival Canceled for 2025

The Chattanooga Motorcar Festival has been canceled for 2025, according to published reports.

The event would have been the sixth Chattanooga festival, which included auctions from Mecum and Broad Arrow held alongside the downtown event.

For more information, read the full report at classicmotorsports.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) invites SEMA members under 40 to its Pizza and Professionals Networking Reception. The event will take place following the FLN Professional Development Program (PDP) at the SEMA Garage Detroit in Plymouth, Michigan, on May 9, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. EDT.

FLN networking events are a great opportunity to grow one's professional network in a relaxed setting, as well as discover resources designed to help young professionals succeed in the industry. FLN select committee leaders will be on-site to share information about the network's current projects, resources for members and ways to get involved. 

Pizza and refreshments will be provided. Registration is required.

Register here.