By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) is kicking off the 2025 Street Machine Nationals in St. Paul, Minnesota, with a networking mixer for young professionals in the automotive aftermarket industry.

Taking place on Friday, July 18, from 7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m. at QA1 Headquarters, 9574 217th Street West, Lakeville, Minnesota, the mixer will enable current and prospective members to connect in person before the start of the biggest muscle car show of the year.

During the mixer, attendees will expand their networks, enjoy complimentary breakfast snacks and learn how FLN programs can support their professional growth. The mixer will run in conjunction with the QA1 Open House featuring guided tours of the QA1 facility and its operations.

RSVP for the mixer here.

To learn more about the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN), visit sema.org/fln.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA has opened nominations for its prestigious SEMA Industry Awards at sema.org/awards.  

The SEMA Industry Awards are presented to individuals and companies that have made outstanding contributions to the automotive specialty-equipment industry during the past year. The program recognizes honorees in six different categories: Channel Partner of the Year, Content Creator of the Year, Gen-III Innovator of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year, Person of the Year and Visionary 8. SEMA is accepting nominations until Friday, August 15.

"It takes hard work to grow an automotive specialty-equipment business--even more so to grow an entire industry," said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Jose Escobar. "Award nominees should exemplify outstanding professionalism and service that has propelled the industry forward."  

Nominations are open for: 

• Channel Partner of the Year: Honors a sales channel partner for its outstanding service to the sales, distribution, retail and/or eCommerce channel(s) of the industry. This includes maintaining proper inventories to service its respective channel and exceeding standards in providing suppliers with input and regular communication to help their products and programs succeed. 
• Content Creator of the Year: Honors a content creator for their outstanding contributions to the automotive culture and for creating a positive impact with automotive enthusiasts. 
• Gen-III Innovator of the Year: Honors a young, entrepreneurial individual, 40 years old or younger, who is creating innovative breakthroughs within the area(s) of industry opportunities, advancement, best business practices, technology and/or trends. 
• Manufacturer of the Year: Honors a manufacturing company for its outstanding industry contributions and innovations. 
• Person of the Year: Honors an individual for their outstanding contributions to SEMA and the broader automotive specialty-equipment market. 
• Visionary 8: Honors eight emerging leaders on track to drive innovation and positive change in the automotive aftermarket industry. This award showcases up-and-coming talent, honors their accomplishments and introduces them to their community.  

The 2025 SEMA Show is where automotive icons and next-gen disruptors converge to celebrate the past, present and future of the aftermarket industry. The festivities shift into gear on Tuesday, November 4, with the Kickoff Breakfast, where 15 cutting-edge New Product Awards will be unveiled alongside top honors for Channel Partner of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year.

On Thursday, November 6, the highly anticipated Visionary 8 and SEMA's Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year winner will be announced live at SEMA Central. The momentum will continue the same day at the newly reimagined industry homecoming--SEMA Industry Honors--now staged at the iconic Fontainebleau. This red-carpet-style gathering brings together the industry's biggest names to spotlight standout achievements, including Content Creator of the Year, Gen-III Innovator of the Year and the coveted Person of the Year. 

Entries for Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year--a SEMA Industry Award that recognizes exceptional quality of engineering on a vehicle build--will open in August. Learn more at sema.org/awards. 

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Show, November 4-7, 2025, in Las Vegas, continues to raise the bar for global industry engagement with the debut of the International Pavilion, a new feature for 2025 designed to connect worldwide automotive brands with the industry's top buyers, media, and influencers.

The SEMA Show, for the first time since 2019, is expanding back into the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. The venue will be reimagined as a dynamic hub for international discovery and business opportunity--one that supports SEMA's growing global presence and provides a launchpad for innovative brands.

Inside the International Pavilion: A Must-Attend Show Feature

Located in a high-traffic area of the Westgate, the International Pavilion invites attendees to meet face-to-face with manufacturers, distributors, and sourcing contacts from around the world. It's also a rare chance to explore products not yet widely available in the U.S. market—ranging from performance parts and accessories to specialized tools and emerging technologies and beyond.

More than just exhibit space, the Pavilion will host some of SEMA Week's most anticipated gatherings, including the SEMA Kickoff Breakfast, the NHRA Breakfast and select VIP networking events. Exhibitors in this space benefit from premium visibility and the chance to engage with decision-makers during these high-profile moments.

Whether you're seeking new suppliers, scouting untapped innovations, or aiming to expand your international footprint, the International Pavilion delivers a unique opportunity to experience the global aftermarket—all in one place, at the 2025 SEMA Show.

Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $50 per person through Friday, June 27. Starting June 28, the rate increases to $75, and as of September 27, registration online or on-site will be $100. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

For more information about the 2025 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com. Sign up for updates on SEMA Fest at semafest.com.

By Kenny Wright

With so much growth and change that's constantly taking place in our industry, the SEMA Show continues to be a testament to the power, passion and innovation that fuel not just the automotive aftermarket, but in many ways, the entire automotive industry. Every year, OEMs and aftermarket manufacturers all gather en masse at the SEMA Show. But why? 

If you've ever been to the Show, the reasons all these major players from nearly every segment of the automotive industry exhibit and attend the SEMA Show are obvious.
 

The business opportunities are unbeatable. I'm not kidding. There's literally nowhere else in the world where you'll get the chance to meet thousands of industry leaders, innovators, media & content creators, and legends in the auto world. If you work in the auto industry, the SEMA Show is where you need to be.  

Also, the IRL potential to drive sales and generate interest in your business or products is second to none. I've been to two SEMA Shows, back-to-back, and the level of excellence remains consistent. Being on the Show floor, in the heart of an aftermarket flowing with industry life, your chances to meet the right people are unrivaled by any other automotive event in the USA.  

Another stellar reason the SEMA Show remains as the pinnacle of automotive business and culture events, is the accelerated social media opportunities that take place the week of the event.  
 

The SEMA Show generates millions of social media impressions, from the thousands of exhibiting companies, industry attendees, major players in the realm of traditional media, and content creators. Essentially, the SEMA Show creates social media tidal waves.   

Oh, and one more thing: SEMA has upped its digital media production game, with the addition of SEMA Live. This live broadcast covers the entire SEMA Show from a social media lens. Available only on the SEMA Show's social media channels, this experience allows anyone, anywhere, to witness the thrill, passion and excitement of the world's greatest automotive aftermarket event.  
 

The SEMA Show remains the largest gathering of genuine automotive enthusiasts, companies, media partners and live automotive experiences. This automotive event is built to fuel the positive growth of one of the greatest industries on the earth. Authenticity, passion and innovation drive the Show every year--and it's only getting better.  

No matter what the future holds, when it comes to the automotive industry, one thing is certain: The SEMA Show is the place to be. 

--Kenny Wright, marketing copywriter/operations coordinator for SEMA.

Editor's Note: Online registration for qualified professional attendees is available at semashow.com/register. Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak. Learn more at SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Chevrolet has introduced its new, 1,250-hp, electrified all-wheel drive Corvette: the '26 Corvette ZR1X.

Every ZR1X will be built in America at General Motors' Bowling Green Assembly Plant in Kentucky from United States and globally sourced parts, with every LT7 engine hand-assembled by the master engine builders at the Bowling Green Performance Build Center. Further details on price and availability will be shared closer to production.

Already announced features:

• LT7 twin-turbo V8: 1,064 hp at 7,000 rpm, 828 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,000 rpm
• Front-axle motor: 186 hp and 145 lb.-ft. of torque
• GM-estimated 0-60-mph time: Less than two seconds
• GM-estimated quarter-mile time: Less than nine seconds, with trap speed of more than 150 mph

"From day one, we designed the mid-engine Corvette architecture with ZR1X in mind," said General Motors senior VP Ken Morris. "This is the most revolutionary platform in Corvette history, supporting the widest range of American sports cars3 and delivering world-class performance at every level."

The ZR1X starts with the ZR1's LT7 V8, generating 1,064 hp and 828 lb.-ft. of torque, sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. With a forged flat-plane crankshaft, finger-follower valvetrain and dry-sump lubrication, the hand-built 5.5-L Gemini small-block V8 was developed alongside the naturally aspirated flat-plane crankshaft engines powering the Corvette Z06 and Z06 GT3.R race car. The V8 includes:

• Dual 76-mm turbochargers
• A "maniturbo" exhaust design that combines the manifold and turbocharger housing to get the turbos as close to the exhaust valves as possible, improving throttle response by decreasing the time needed to build boost
• Dynamic anti-lag controls that maintain turbo speed when off-throttle in certain situations so boost is available rapidly when throttle is reapplied

The ZR1X also benefits from the foundation set in 2024 by E-Ray, the first-ever AWD Corvette, combining a high-voltage battery pack and electric motor driving the front axle with V8 propulsion turning the rear axle. There is no physical connection between the two power sources on ZR1X, and the electrified propulsion system does not require a plug-in--charging takes place through regenerative efforts from the front drive unit.

The compact electric motor on the front axle is capable of 186 hp and 145 lb.-ft. of torque on demand. While retaining the same shape and size as the E-Ray front-drive unit, the ZR1X unit pairs strengthened internal components and improvements in energy deployment to generate an additional 26 hp and 20 lb.-ft. of torque. The front axle is engaged and can apply power through 160 mph before disconnecting, directly benefitting ZR1X's quarter-mile acceleration stats and on-track balance, according to the manufacturer.

ZR1X is offered in two chassis configurations that both feature magnetic ride control--adjusting to the vehicle's mode, driver inputs and the road surface for optimal control, according to Chevrolet engineers. The standard chassis, accompanied by Michelin PS4S tires, makes for a comfortable touring car on-road and a highly capable Corvette at the track. The available ZTK Performance Package incorporates higher spring rates, which are firmer and adds Michelin's Pilot Cup 2R tires.

Customers can equip the high-downforce Carbon Aero package to a standard chassis ZR1X, adding dive planes, underbody strakes, a hood gurney lip over the front heat extractor and a rear wing. This package is capable of 1,200 lbs. of downforce at top speed and comes standard on ZTK-equipped cars.

For more information, visit chevrolet.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Motorsports Industry Powers $69.2 Billion U.S. Economic Engine, Supports More Than 318,000 Jobs, New PRI Study Finds

PRI has released a landmark study that underscores the motorsports industry's pivotal role as a key contributor to the United States economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs, generating billions in economic activity and delivering substantial tax revenue.

PRI, the leading voice for the motorsports industry in the United States, commissioned the research, which was conducted by John Dunham & Associates, based on 2025 United States economy data. The study encompasses automobile, truck, motorcycle and UTV/side-by-side racing activity.

Traditionally, economic impact reports about racing are focused on the impact of a single event--major race weekend events for a specific local and state economy. These are studies that examine the impact of the tourism dollars that come into the economy as a result of that single event. PRI's report is different because it determines the economic impact of the businesses that support the existence of racing in the first place.

PRI's research represents the most comprehensive assessment of motorsports' economic footprint ever undertaken to quantify the scale and significance of the business of racing to the U.S. economy. It evaluates the economic contributions from multiple racing businesses, including tracks and promoters, parts manufacturers, distributors, retailers, service providers and incorporated race teams.

Key findings from the study include:

• The industry contributes more than $69.2 billion in annual economic impact to the American economy.
• Nationwide, the motorsports industry supports more than 318,000 American jobs.
• American workers in the motorsports industry earn more than $22.1 billion worth of wages and benefits.
• The industry generates more than $8.2 billion in tax revenue, including $5 billion in federal taxes and $3.2 billion in state and local taxes.

This economic impact study represents an important bookend to PRI's 2024 Racing Market Report, a consumer trends analysis which found that consumers spent $8 billion on track-use only parts for motorsports in 2023.

As part of this study, PRI also launched an interactive economic impact map, enabling users to explore motorsports-related data by state and county--highlighting the industry's reach and relevance in communities of all sizes across the country. The website also offers downloadable infographics that can be shared with policy makers and other businesses to show the impact motorsports has on individual states and communities.

The PRI Economic Impact Study provides valuable data about the economic footprint of the motorsports industry in the United States. PRI undertook this effort to provide policymakers, industry stakeholders and the public with credible, data-driven insights into racing's role as a major driver of economic activity, employment and tax revenue. The study not only affirms the industry's significance but also serves as a foundational resource to inform advocacy, investment and long-term planning.

"Racing holds a special place in American life, and this milestone report highlights the broad scope of the motorsports industry as an economic driver at the local, state and federal levels," said PRI President Michael Good. "Using these results as a foundation, PRI will continue to seek ways to foster the motorsports industry, from racetracks to manufacturers, and from small businesses to major national employers, to ensure motorsports continues to touch every part of the country and bring together people from all walks of life for competition and community. We're proud to serve as the leading voice for the motorsports industry in the United States and will continue delivering the data needed to demonstrate the industry's economic strength and value."

In 2023, a study commissioned by SEMA found that the automotive aftermarket industry generates an economic impact of $337 billion annually to the American economy. While the motorsports study found small areas of overlap in the parts, repair and facilities areas, the motorsports study results are a complement to the SEMA report. PRI was acquired by SEMA in 2012 to connect, protect and advocate for the motorsports industry.

Report Methodology

The PRI Economic Impact Study estimates the economic contributions made by the motorsports industry, which includes manufacturers, distributors and retailers of automotive racing parts plus racetracks, race promoters and professional race teams. Data are for the United States economy in 2025. John Dunham & Associates (JDA) conducted this research, which was funded by PRI. This work used standard econometric models first developed by the U.S. Forest Service, and now maintained by IMPLAN Inc. Data came from PRI, Data Axle and other government sources.

By SEMA News Editors

Motorsports Industry Powers $69.2 Billion U.S. Economic Engine, Supports More Than 318,000 Jobs, New PRI Study Finds

PRI has released a landmark study that underscores the motorsports industry's pivotal role as a key contributor to the United States economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs, generating billions in economic activity and delivering substantial tax revenue.

PRI, the leading voice for the motorsports industry in the United States, commissioned the research, which was conducted by John Dunham & Associates, based on 2025 United States economy data. The study encompasses automobile, truck, motorcycle and UTV/side-by-side racing activity.

Traditionally, economic impact reports about racing are focused on the impact of a single event--major race weekend events for a specific local and state economy. These are studies that examine the impact of the tourism dollars that come into the economy as a result of that single event. PRI's report is different because it determines the economic impact of the businesses that support the existence of racing in the first place.

PRI's research represents the most comprehensive assessment of motorsports' economic footprint ever undertaken to quantify the scale and significance of the business of racing to the U.S. economy. It evaluates the economic contributions from multiple racing businesses, including tracks and promoters, parts manufacturers, distributors, retailers, service providers and incorporated race teams.

Key findings from the study include:

• The industry contributes more than $69.2 billion in annual economic impact to the American economy.
• Nationwide, the motorsports industry supports more than 318,000 American jobs.
• American workers in the motorsports industry earn more than $22.1 billion worth of wages and benefits.
• The industry generates more than $8.2 billion in tax revenue, including $5 billion in federal taxes and $3.2 billion in state and local taxes.

This economic impact study represents an important bookend to PRI's 2024 Racing Market Report, a consumer trends analysis which found that consumers spent $8 billion on track-use only parts for motorsports in 2023.

As part of this study, PRI also launched an interactive economic impact map, enabling users to explore motorsports-related data by state and county--highlighting the industry's reach and relevance in communities of all sizes across the country. The website also offers downloadable infographics that can be shared with policy makers and other businesses to show the impact motorsports has on individual states and communities.

The PRI Economic Impact Study provides valuable data about the economic footprint of the motorsports industry in the United States. PRI undertook this effort to provide policymakers, industry stakeholders and the public with credible, data-driven insights into racing's role as a major driver of economic activity, employment and tax revenue. The study not only affirms the industry's significance but also serves as a foundational resource to inform advocacy, investment and long-term planning.

"Racing holds a special place in American life, and this milestone report highlights the broad scope of the motorsports industry as an economic driver at the local, state and federal levels," said PRI President Michael Good. "Using these results as a foundation, PRI will continue to seek ways to foster the motorsports industry, from racetracks to manufacturers, and from small businesses to major national employers, to ensure motorsports continues to touch every part of the country and bring together people from all walks of life for competition and community. We're proud to serve as the leading voice for the motorsports industry in the United States and will continue delivering the data needed to demonstrate the industry's economic strength and value."

In 2023, a study commissioned by SEMA found that the automotive aftermarket industry generates an economic impact of $337 billion annually to the American economy. While the motorsports study found small areas of overlap in the parts, repair and facilities areas, the motorsports study results are a complement to the SEMA report. PRI was acquired by SEMA in 2012 to connect, protect and advocate for the motorsports industry.

Report Methodology

The PRI Economic Impact Study estimates the economic contributions made by the motorsports industry, which includes manufacturers, distributors and retailers of automotive racing parts plus racetracks, race promoters and professional race teams. Data are for the United States economy in 2025. John Dunham & Associates (JDA) conducted this research, which was funded by PRI. This work used standard econometric models first developed by the U.S. Forest Service, and now maintained by IMPLAN Inc. Data came from PRI, Data Axle and other government sources.

By Ashley Reyes

The upcoming SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Days at the Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, will provide visitors with the chance to attend high-powered educational seminars led by top manufacturers in the hot-rod market.

Seven seminars will take place throughout Friday, July 11, and Saturday, July 12, enabling hot-rod builders, professionals and enthusiasts to hear directly from manufacturers about product installation, operation and system best practices when building a hot rod.

The seminars are free to Goodguys Summit Racing attendees and registration is not required. The sessions are located in the Celeste Center at the Ohio Expo Center.  

See the full schedule below (all times EDT):

Friday, July 11

• 11:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: Griots "Clean and Shine! The Right Products to Make a Difference"
• 12:15 p.m.–1:00 p.m.: Vintage Air "The Basics of Hot-Rod and Musclecar Air Conditioning"
• 1:15 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: American Autowire "Choosing the Best Wiring System for Your Project"

Saturday, July 12

• 10:15 a.m.–11:00 a.m.: Wilwood Brakes "Brake System Basics"
• 11:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: "An Introduction to Digital Gauge Systems"
• 12:15 p.m.–1:00 p.m.: Advanced Plating "Improving Your Vehicle with Chrome and More"
• 1:15 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: Goodguys "Turnkey vs. Custom Build"

Learn more about HRIA Education Days at sema.org/hria-education-days.

By SEMA News Editors

Honda Enters Pikes Peak International Hill Climb With First-Ever Hydrogen Entry

Honda is entering the Honda CR-V e:FCEV as the first-ever hydrogen-powered vehicle to compete at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb later this month.

Prepped for competition by engineers at Honda of America Race Team (HART), Honda R&D Japan and Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US), the CR-V e:FCEV will take on the 156-turn, 12.42-mile mountain course on June 22 with former Pikes Peak class-winner and two-time Formula DRIFT champion Dai Yoshihara behind the wheel.

The production 2025 CR‑V e:FCEV will compete in the "exhibition class" without modifications to its zero-emissions powertrain, which includes the second-generation Honda fuel cell system produced at Fuel Cell System Manufacturing, LLC (FCSM) in Michigan, a front-mounted single-motor, 17.7 kWh battery pack, and two high-pressure hydrogen tanks.

The CR‑V e:FCEV is hand-built at the Honda Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, Ohio, and is the only fuel cell electric passenger vehicle made in America, and the first to pair hydrogen fuel cell with plug-in hybrid technology. For competition, the only modifications from stock are a 1-inch lowered suspension, racing brake pads, light weight 18-inch wheels and 265/45R18 Yokohama Advan A052 tires. HART also equipped the CR‑V e:FCEV with a racing seat and safety cage, custom-fabricated into the vehicle by Honda engineers at HART and PMC.

For more information, visit hondaracing-us.com.

Formula DRIFT Education Program Partner, Acceler8, Secures State Grant

Acceler8, the independent non-profit automotive education program founded by law enforcement veterans to help at-risk kids, was accepted by the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) to receive funds through the California Community Reinvestment Grants (CalCRG) program. 

The announcement will enable Acceler8 to expand its structured programs, providing underserved youth with hands-on automotive education, mentorship and career pathways. In addition, the funds will also go towards a new Acceler8 facility set to open in the Arts District of downtown Los Angeles later this summer.

As a direct result of the funding, Acceler8 aims to assist up to 420 youth over three years by offering two 16-week courses per year. Each course will enroll 20-30 students and focus on preparing participants for ASE Certification in basic mechanics through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on automotive training. 

Students will learn techniques ranging from basic tune-ups, tire rotations and oil changes to advanced skills, such as computer diagnostics and installing or repairing critical systems, including engines and transmissions. Guest speakers, including automotive professionals and business owners, will engage with students to inspire them toward automotive careers, with the hope of leading to further education and training.

Upon completion, students will be introduced to potential job placements, vocational training and apprenticeships in the automotive industry.

"We're honored and delighted to receive support from the State of California for our mission to provide youth with career opportunities in the automotive industry. Through this investment, our students will undoubtedly recognize the state stands firmly behind them on their journey to adulthood and gainful employment," said Charles Woodruff, co-founder and CEO at Acceler8 Education Program. 

As a foundational partner in the Formula DRIFT Driven Experience, Acceler8 has introduced more than 3,000 youth from across the country to motorsports over four years. The aim has always been to provide young people with a window into the exciting possibilities of a career in the automotive sector with the ongoing help and support of the FD organizing body, teams and drivers, who have donated their time and expertise to inspire the kids.

For more information, visit acceler8education.org.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Mitchell Clarke of Timbren Industries as the network's newest spotlight member. 

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

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

Mitchell Clarke: Never take things personally in business. Being able to keep a level head helps with quick decision-making, and being able to regroup and overcome obstacles. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

MC: All the interesting designs and products that keep emerging. Not a week goes by that I don't see a new trailer design or new accessory that catches my eye. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

MC: Mostly doing chores! Mowing the lawn, tidying the house, doing laundry, etc. Then maybe a movie once all that is done. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

MC: I review my notes and talking points before attending. I go in with a clear objective on what I want to accomplish in that meeting. 

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

MC: The chairman of Toyota, Akio Toyoda. Being able to chat with him about "The Toyota Way" and the "Toyota Production System" business philosophies would be very interesting. Also, the thought process of being the early leaders in the hybrid-vehicle industry, which has grown so much since its introduction. 

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