From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

With safety concerns front of mind, SEMA is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Congress to take a long, unflinching look at how the federal government can deliver advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) policies and guidelines that account for the needs of vehicle owners and the aftermarket amid the rapid, unparalleled advance of vehicle safety technology. 

Aftermarket companies manufacture, sell and service popular and widely used products like vehicle wraps, lift kits, bike racks, bumpers, winches and sideview mirrors, which must operate harmoniously with the technology automakers employ to support ADAS features on modern vehicles and thus ensure safety systems continue to operate as intended for the full lifecycle of a vehicle. As a result, correct calibration and recalibration of safety systems are core concerns for maintaining driver and passenger safety after these common modifications are made. 

• Read SEMA's full comment here. 

SEMA's letter is in response to a USDOT request for information on the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill, commonly known as "the highway bill." SEMA focuses on federal policies that would deliver the transparency needed to ensure specialty aftermarket businesses have the information needed to modify, customize and work on vehicles with ADAS safely. SEMA is requesting that USDOT and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) work with Congress to craft a highway bill that addresses the following through rulemaking and the issuance of guidance and industry requirements: 

• Establish modification ranges and tolerances for new vehicles. 
• Develop guidelines that ensure proper calibration of ADAS and create neutral validation protocols. 
• Create either a visible diagnostic indicator to determine ADAS operational status or an electronic diagnostic indicator for ADAS status. 
• Require that automakers make full lifecycle support for ADAS achievable. 
• Provide full access to Vehicle Dynamic Systems and the data needed to maintain compliance and functionality. 

SEMA Says: "Safety is a primary concern and core focus for the automotive aftermarket," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola in the organization's letter to USDOT. "When cars and trucks needed to be safer, the automotive aftermarket was there; when seat belts, backup cameras, sideview and enhanced rearview mirrors were still optional equipment, it was the aftermarket that sparked their popularization and made them widely available. Today, with ADAS offered in most newer vehicles, the aftermarket is developing products that are compatible with the many safety features these vehicles provide, along with providing collision avoidance systems and blindspot monitors for older vehicles." 

BACKGROUND 

• Vehicles' ADAS technologies and modifications must safely coexist, as outlined in SEMA's right to repair/right to modify principles, with safe-and-correct ADAS recalibration necessary for ensuring optimal vehicle performance after basic modifications, such as installing larger tires and wheels, lift kits, lowering kits, bumpers, grills, push bars, light bars, bike racks and winches. 
• The SEMA Garage's ADAS Technology Center in Plymouth, Michigan, helps SEMA member manufacturers develop products from start to finish that maintain the integrity and performance of ADAS and vehicle safety systems after a vehicle has been modified. 

Questions? Contact Matt Daigle, SEMA director, communications for public and government affairs, at mattd@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

The best builds. The boldest customizations. Do you have what it takes to be the next Battle of the Builders champion? There's only one way to find out!

Every year, the best builds and the boldest customizations face off in the industry's leading vehicle competition to see who will be crowned the next Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers champion. 

Applications are open for the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers at semabotb.com. All builders with a vehicle displayed at the 2025 SEMA Show may enter the competition at semabotb.com before the deadline on October 17, 2025.

The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB) will recognize class champions as the best in four categories:

• Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck
• 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road
• Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic
• Young Guns

Only one of the class champions will be crowned the overall BOTB champion during this year's SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas.

Battle of the Builders Young Guns Category

Supporting and inspiring young builders is crucial to the future of the automotive specialty-equipment market. The BOTB Young Guns category is designed to encourage young builders to pursue their passions and shine a light on the up-and-coming builders.

"Young Guns" is a designation within the overall BOTB competition to recognize builders who are under the age of 29 (as of November 7, 2025). Those who meet the criteria and have selected the Young Guns category on the online application are eligible to participate. In addition, all eligible Young Guns applicants who have submitted their online application before August 15, 2025, may be selected to compete in one or more virtual regional Golden Ticket competitions for the chance to win a Golden Ticket SEMA Show prize package. The eligible Young Guns applicants who have been selected for this will be contacted separately by the BOTB operations team via email or phone.

For more information and to apply, visit semabotb.com. For the complete BOTB terms and conditions, visit here.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia
 

Spy photographers have once again caught an upcoming vehicle undergoing testing, giving an early glimpse at what's to come before its official debut.
 

Return of a Small Legend: Renault Twingo Launch Slated for Later This Year

Renault is closer to unveiling its latest innovation in the electric-vehicle (EV) market, according to new spy photos of the '26 Renault Twingo EV driving on a country road.

The distinctive round headlights, the wedge-shaped hood and rounded shapes of the doors and vertical tailgate match those of the concept car teased late last year, according to SEMA News sources, and show that the new Renault Twingo is at a very advanced stage of development and that its launch is imminent.

This fourth-generation Twingo will feature an interior more similar to the one launched in the '90s, according to sources, but will have a front electric motor with a maximum power output of up to 110 hp and a battery with a capacity of 40 kWh, enough to offer a maximum range of around 217 miles.  

DS Automobiles' Flagship DS7 Snapped in Public

The DS7 has long been a cornerstone of French Manufacturer DS Automobiles' lineup, and its upcoming renewal marks a pivotal moment for the brand, according to industry sources. The second-generation crossover is set to debut within the next couple of months, boasting a full redesign and the latest Stellantis technology--including the option of a fully electric powertrain.

Originally launched as the DS7 Crossback in 2017 and refreshed in 2022, the new DS7 remained unseen in public testing–until now, thanks to new images captured by SEMA News sources.

These exclusive spy shots reveal a sleeker, more dynamic DS7 with a bold hexagonal grille flanked by slimmer, more aggressive headlights and sharper daytime run lights. The profile is more sculpted, with a greenhouse design reminiscent of the compact DS4. At the rear, jewel-like taillights, faux vents and a clean lower bumper reflect a move toward modern minimalism. As per DS's current branding strategy, the signature DS emblem is joined by "DS Automobiles" script, ensuring clear brand identity. The new DS7 is also expected to grow in size, with its wheelbase expected to stretch from the current 107.5 in. to 109.6 in, offering increased space for rear passengers. Inside, the new cabin will focus on luxury, cutting-edge infotainment and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

The entry-level model will likely feature the 1.2L turbocharged three-cylinder paired with a 48v mild-hybrid system and six-speed dual-clutch transmission, producing 134 hp from the gas engine and 28 hp from the electric motor, prioritizing efficiency over performance. For more power, plug-in hybrid and fully electric variants will be available, likely delivering between 207 and 227 hp in front-wheel-drive configuration, and up to 316 hp in all-wheel-drive models.

A Bold New Foundation on the MMA Platform: '27 Mercedes-Benz GLA

The Mercedes-Benz '27 GLA is set to usher in a new era for the manufacturer, as it will be built on the advanced Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA). This versatile platform supports internal-combustion, mild-hybrid and full-electric powertrains, positioning the GLA as a multifunctional SUV ready to adapt across the electrification spectrum, industry news sources said.

Like with the brand's CLA and GLB, there will be two different drivetrains available for the new GLA. The electric Variant, called GLA EQ, will be debuting in late 2026 and will be targeting a 450-mile range thanks to its expected 800v architecture and next-generation battery architecture, according to insiders. The MMA's electric models are also expected to enable rapid recharging, which recharges the battery from 10 to 80% in about 15 minutes, along with support for bi-directional charging.

According to the newly acquired spy shots, design cues suggest the '27 GLA will be sportier and more aerodynamic. Expect a sloping roof, swept D-pillar, streamlined panels and possibly an illuminated grille. Inside, the GLA rides the tech wave with an MBUX Superscreen--a full-width display panel merging the instrument cluster, central infotainment and optional passenger screen, all integrated with AI-driven features.

By SEMA News Editors

Zenata Perez, Mike Cooper Join AACF Board of Trustees

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has added two new members to its board of trustees: Zenata Perez, global head of sales for vehicle management solutions at Sensata Technologies, and Mike Cooper, senior vice president of professional United States/Puerto Rico at Advance Auto Parts.

Perez brings more than two decades of experience in sales, business development and strategic leadership across the automotive sector. At Sensata Technologies, Perez leads global sales and manages key partnerships across multiple regions.

Cooper oversees the professional business segment for Advance Auto Parts across the United States and Puerto Rico.

Both new trustees bring fresh insights and extensive networks that will help AACF expand its visibility, deepen industry engagement and reach even more families in need, according to the organization. Their expertise will be instrumental in guiding strategic initiatives, building partnerships and advancing the foundation's mission to provide vital support during times of crisis.

"We're thrilled to welcome Zenata and Mike to the AACF Board," said AACF Executive Director John Kairys. "They both bring unique strengths, broad industry perspectives and a shared passion for helping people are qualities that will help us continue our mission at an even greater scale."

For more information, visit aftermarketcharity.org

Kahn Media Releases AI Visibility Engine to Help Aftermarket Brands

Kahn Media, a Moorpark, California, marketing agency specializing in the automotive, outdoor and luxury markets, has announced the launch of its new AI Visibility Engine.

The AI Visibility Engine aims to help brands adapt to the emergence of AI-driven search results from LLM platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity and others. It is available now and can be implemented for any new or existing clients.

AI-driven search results are increasingly replacing the importance of traditional search engines like Google and SEO efforts, according to the marketing firm. Appearing in these AI-driven search queries is rapidly becoming critical for brands as more consumers turn to LLM platforms to guide their purchasing decisions. Kahn Media's AI Visibility Engine offers brands a comprehensive AI visibility audit and a detailed strategy to ensure consistent and continued brand visibility, the agency said.

The in-depth audit portion of the AI Visibility Engine utilizes Kahn Media's in-house-developed tools and techniques to give brands a deep understanding of how or if they are appearing in search results across multiple LLM platforms. The AI Visibility Engine also provides a curated AI strategy roadmap individually tailored to each brand.

For more information, visit kahnmedia.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors can expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence through the exclusive Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program, which is now open at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list is designed for builders looking to collaborate and seek product offers straight from confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors.

Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly with the provided contact information. All product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder, with each project vehicle on display at the SEMA Show required to be supported by a current 2025 SEMA Show exhibitor.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2025 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

Qualified builders are encouraged to frequently check the 2025 Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, as it is updated when submissions come in.

Note: Submissions appear on a first-come, first-served basis. The Project-Vehicle Builders form must be used by exhibitors to participate in the program; email submissions will not be included in the list. Participation in the list does not guarantee product or vehicle placement at the 2025 SEMA Show. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to confirm the builder is affiliated with and working on a vehicle that will be on display at the SEMA Show. For more information about the list, contact Laura Pitts at projectvehicles@sema.org or call 949-373-9210.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is hosting a virtual General Membership Meeting on Wednesday, September 17, at 11:00 a.m. PDT/2:00 p.m. EDT, during which select-committee leaders will share updates about PRO's member benefits. 

The meeting is open to current and prospective members and is an opportunity to discover resources designed to help automotive restylers succeed in the specialty-equipment industry. Attendees will hear about events, volunteer opportunities, and other resources aimed at supporting business and professional growth.  

The meeting will also include updates about the PRO Cup Challenge and other PRO events taking place at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, in Las Vegas.   

PRO membership is open to all SEMA member companies serving the restyling and accessory markets--including manufacturers, warehouse distributors or restylers and installers. If this sounds like you, don't miss this opportunity to take action in the industry and grow your network by getting more involved.  

Register here.  

By Ashley Reyes

Time is running out to submit nominations for the 2025 Council & Network Awards that honor the unwavering passion, dedication and innovative spirit that drives the automotive aftermarket industry.

Presented during the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 4–7, these awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of council and network members and honor leading companies and individuals who have made a significant impact in their respective industry segments.  

Nominations are open in the following categories until Monday, September 1:  

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO): Business of the Year, Person of the Year. 
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN): Engineer of the Year. 
• Future Leaders Network (FLN): Professional of the Year Award, Vanguard Award.  
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA): Business of the Year, Hall of Fame, Industry Recognition Award. (Entries for HRIA's Design and Engineering Award and Evolution of Hot Rodding Award will open closer to the SEMA Show). 
• Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC): Hall of Fame
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO): Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement Award, Manufacturer of the Year, Nat Danas Person of the Year, Restyler of the Year.  
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN): Member Impact Award, #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year Award. 
• Truck & Off-Road Industry Alliance (TORA): Hall of Fame, Jessi Combs Ambassador Award, Retailer of the Year.  
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC): Business of the Year, Hall of Fame, Person of the Year.  

Award winners will be announced at each council and network's respective SEMA Show reception, which brings together influential industry leaders and members within each segment of the automotive aftermarket. Nominate today!  

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors who will have breaking news announcements at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, and would like to be included in the official 2025 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule can submit a press conference application here.

Exhibitors that do want to be included in the official SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule have until Friday, September 5, to submit an application and be included in all SEMA Show press conference communications.

After submitting an application, exhibitors will receive an automatic email confirming that the application was received. Those who do not receive the automatic email may have experienced a technical problem and are encouraged to email pr@sema.org for assistance.

To learn more about other strategies and tools thar are available to exhibitors to promote their conference and reach media covering the SEMA Show, download the SEMA Show Public Relations Opportunities Guide.

By SEMA News Editors

Mario Andretti to Kick Off 2025 PRI Show

Motorsports icon Mario Andretti will be the featured guest at the 2025 Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show Grand Opening Breakfast, a time-honored tradition that officially kicks off the world's largest gathering of motorsports professionals. The breakfast takes place Thursday, December 11, at the Indiana Convention Center.

The PRI Show is the ultimate marketplace for motorsports innovation, featuring more than 1,000 exhibiting companies and tens of thousands of attendees from across the globe. From manufacturers and builders to track operators and race teams, the Show is a hub for dealmaking, discovery and community.

Andretti will join motorsports broadcaster Ralph Sheheen for a candid Q&A session that promises to inspire and energize the industry. Andretti's attendance is made possible by The MagnaFlow Group.

"The Grand Opening Breakfast is more than a welcome; it's our launchpad," said PRI President Michael Good. "Mario is not only one of the most iconic and accomplished drivers in motorsports history, but he also embodies the passion, innovation and competitive spirit that our industry thrives on. His story will inspire everyone in the room as we kick off the PRI Show."

Andretti's career is a masterclass in excellence, versatility and longevity. From winning the Formula 1 World Championship in 1978 and the IndyCar National Championship four times, to capturing victories at the Indianapolis 500, Daytona 500, the 12 Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of LeMans, his name is etched into the history of nearly every major motorsports discipline. Beyond the track, he has translated his competitive spirit into thriving business ventures that continue to engage fans and fuel the racing community.

"I've spent my life chasing speed and pushing boundaries," said Andretti. "The PRI Show is where the future of racing is shaped, and I'm honored to help officially kick it off surrounded by the very heartbeat of the industry."

Racing fuels economic growth in communities nationwide, as highlighted by the recent "PRI Motorsports Economic Impact Study." This groundbreaking report shows that the motorsports industry generates more than $69.2 billion annually for the U.S. economy, sustains more than 318,000 jobs, and accounts for $22.1 billion in wages and benefits.

The PRI Show is a catalyst for that continued growth, bringing together innovators, businesses and industry leaders from across the motorsports landscape to drive collaboration, showcase breakthrough technologies and reinforce the economic vitality of the sport.

"Mario Andretti's journey mirrors the entrepreneurial spirit we see across the PRI Show floor, from startups to legacy brands," said PRI Show Director Karin Davidson. "His perspective connects with our community in a way that's deeply personal and professionally meaningful."

"With MagnaFlow's heritage in race exhaust and now Camburg's expertise in race suspension, The MagnaFlow Group is proud to have Mario represent us at PRI and speak to the racing community," said Richard Waitas, spokesperson for The MagnaFlow Group. "His legacy of performance and precision mirrors our commitment to empowering racers and builders at every level."

Doors to the Grand Opening Breakfast open at 6:30 a.m. EST, and the program begins at 7:30 a.m. EST. The breakfast is free to all PRI attendees, but guests are advised to arrive early as seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

The PRI Show draws attendees from all 50 states and around the globe, including race teams, retailers, engine builders, fabricators, media and more. Early registration ensures attendees receive their credentials in advance—starting in October—saving time and avoiding lines at the Show.

To register, book hotel accommodations and learn more about the 2025 PRI Show, visit PRI2025.com/Attend.

Best In The Desert, Unlimited Off-Road Racing Form the American Off-Road Racing Championship

Best In The Desert (BITD) and Unlimited Off-Road Racing (UNLTD) announced today the formation of a new national points series: the American Off-Road Racing Championship, launching in 2026.

The announcement merges the two desert racing organizations, streamlining competition and delivering greater value to racers and sponsors in the off-road industry, according to series officials.

Additionally, the two organizations will close out the 2025 season together with a combined championship finale at the Laughlin Desert Classic, October 15–19, in Laughlin, Nevada. By consolidating both races, the organizations eliminate scheduling conflicts, reduce logistical strain on teams and concentrate sponsor exposure--delivering a stronger and more efficient close to the season, officials from both series said.

The 2026 American Off-Road Racing Championship will feature events drawn from both the BITD and UNLTD calendars. The season will kick off with The Parker 400 in January, with additional dates and locations to be announced in the coming weeks.

The two organizations are actively co-developing a standardized competition framework that includes the following:

• Master Schedule: A unified calendar to eliminate date conflicts, streamline logistics and maximize racer participation.
• Unified Rulebook: A single rulebook, class structure and numbering system to ensure consistency and transparency across all events.
• Standardized Tech Inspection: Unified procedures across all events to simplify prep and reduce friction at race sites.
• Consistent Points System: A shared championship structure that rewards performance across the full season.

For more information, visit unlimitedoffroadracing.com and bitd.com.

O'Reilly Auto Parts Named Title Sponsor of NASCAR's Secondary Series

O'Reilly Auto Parts, the automotive replacement parts retailer headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, has been named the title sponsor of NASCAR's secondary series, currently known as the NASCAR Xfinity Series, as part of a multi-year agreement.

The multi-dimensional sponsorship also includes promotional opportunities and brand integrations in partnership with The CW Network, the exclusive broadcast home of the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.

The NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series will officially debut on January 1, 2026, and marks the fourth entitlement sponsorship in the series' history. The company has previously supported the sanctioning body through race sponsorships across multiple series.

For more information, visit nascar.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Quick Polls are opportunities for the industry to give us feedback on current topics and help drive the work that SEMA does. We work better with input from our members.

Will you help us understand the benefits landscape? Please take our latest three-to-five-minute SEMA Quick Poll. 

This short poll will help us get a pulse check on the market, and we will report the findings back here in a few weeks. The quick poll will only take a few minutes and it will help us understand your insights into key topics. 

Click the button below or click HERE to take the SEMA Quick Poll.

Also, check out our latest industry report, the "2025 SEMA Market Report," for the latest data on the size and scope of the specialty-equipment market.  You can access all our market research reports at: www.sema.org/research.

Your answers to a SEMA Quick Poll are anonymous and will only be reported as combined totals with all other responses. We appreciate your support for our efforts to better understand the market.