Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Is the Hyundai Elantra Finally Going to Europe?

The next-generation Hyundai Elantra (codenamed CN8) has been caught testing in Europe's cold north. These images confirm that Hyundai is doubling down on its futuristic, coupe-inspired design language for the '26 Elantra. German registration plates fuel speculation that the new Elantra might finally make it to Europe.

The Elantra CN8's headlights reveal a dramatic evolution from the current model. The new setup features rectangular LED modules integrated within a wide sculpted grille section reminiscent of the Hyundai N Vision 74 concept. A continuous LED daytime running light (DRL) strip runs horizontally across the front fascia, creating a sleek, high-tech look that stands out vividly at night.

This lighting signature gives the Elantra a wider stance and a more aggressive road presence, signaling Hyundai's move toward a bolder design philosophy across its sedan lineup.

Moving to the rear, the taillight cluster is equally striking. The spy shots reveal a full-width LED bar stretching across the trunk connecting both taillamps into a single continuous light signature. The horizontal beam is flanked by sharp, triangular lighting elements that echo the N Vision 74's retro-futuristic aesthetic.

This setup, combined with muscular rear haunches and aggressive fender lines, gives the new Elantra a sportier and more premium visual character compared to its predecessor.

While many competitors are rapidly transitioning to fully electric powertrains, Hyundai appears committed to offering one more internal combustion generation of the Elantra. Insiders report that delays in Hyundai's EV rollout have pushed the company to focus on a refreshed gasoline-powered lineup with hybrid and LPG variants expected to complement the range.

Powertrain options are likely to include a 1.6L gasoline engine, an LPG variant (for select markets) and hybrid powertrains. This combination should deliver familiar reliability and efficiency while maintaining accessibility for mainstream buyers.

The coupe-inspired silhouette, bold character lines and low, wide stance draw direct inspiration from Hyundai's acclaimed N Vision 74 concept car. The new Elantra blends retro styling cues with modern aerodynamic proportions, creating a unique identity that bridges Hyundai's performance-oriented and mainstream design directions.

According to industry sources, the all-new Hyundai Elantra (CN8) is scheduled for a global debut in 2026.

2026 Mercedes-AMG C43 Receives a Makeover

You're looking at the first images that confirm what everyone expected. As the Mercedes C-Class is set to receive a mild facelift, the AMG-powered C43 will also get front and rear modifications, including a nod to the company's brand logo in the taillights: the three-pointed star. Judging from the camouflage, changes will also be made to the front bumper as well as the grille. There will also be revisions to the inner graphics of the headlights, which will mirror what Mercedes plans for the rear light units. Like other Mercedes models, the C-Class will feature daytime running lights in the shape of the three-pointed star.

Mercedes-AMG will also improve the perceived quality of the interior with new materials that are more pleasant to the touch, but there will be no design revolution. The C-Class will feature a revised MBUX system and new safety and comfort features inherited from its larger siblings.

The German brand will not make any major changes to the mechanical components, just a simple optimization to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by adjusting the ratios of the automatic transmission. The Mercedes C-Class is expected to be unveiled in spring 2026 and go on sale in midsummer that year, with the AMG-tuned C43 following shortly after.

Dressing Up for the Next Decade: Facelift for the Range Rover

On the market since 2022, the fifth-generation Range Rover, code-named L460, is due for a facelift. Our photographer in northern Sweden has captured the first shots of the revised model, which is likely to debut sometime in 2027 or 2028.

With new electrified gasoline and diesel engines on offer since 2023, the update to the Rangie will likely be limited to minor exterior changes, such as revised headlight and taillight signatures and redesigned front and rear bumpers, along with modernized tech features for connectivity, navigation and entertainment.

The Range Rover will continue with internal combustion engine power but will also be offered as a fully electric vehicle. It will also remain available in an extended wheelbase version for five or seven passengers.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA is celebrating the Trump Administration's decision to rescind the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, dubious policy positions that empowered regulators at the federal and state levels to override consumer choices on vehicles. Among those abuses were federal- and state-led efforts to ban internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and impose nationwide electric vehicle (EV) mandates. 

• By following through with its intent to repeal the GHG endangerment finding, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is unleashing innovation in a significant segment of the automotive aftermarket industry that is entirely dependent on ICE technology. That segment, which has a $100 billion annual economic impact, and employs more than 330,000 Americans, is now free to rely on free-market solutions to our emissions challenges. 

"This is a tremendous decision by the EPA to course-correct after nearly two decades of abuses by previous administrations at the federal and state levels, and instead return sanity to our nation’s environmental policies," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "It was with great trepidation that SEMA watched our nation’s leaders demonize and ban the very motor vehicles that serve as the bedrock upon which the American people--families, small businesses, and automotive enthusiasts--rely to live their best, most prosperous lives. It was even more infuriating to watch these policymakers brazenly justify their actions with a dubious policy position that now rightly goes away, to be replaced with a common-sense, free-market view of what drives our nation’s prosperity."

BACKGROUND 

• The EPA's decision will directly impact federal new car requirements and does not impact existing emissions laws established by the Clean Air Act. Instead, it will ensure that automakers produce vehicles driven by consumer demand, rather than greenhouse gas limits, that latter of which has significantly influenced the models of vehicles available to the American people since 2009. This policy shift will directly impact the range of new vehicle choices that exist in the coming years.  
• In comments responding to the EPA's rulemaking for Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OAR–2025–0194 — Reconsideration of the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, SEMA identified economic and cultural considerations for re-establishing a foundation of vehicle choice in the U.S. automotive market, which, because of recent GHG emissions policies, have experienced an erosion of affordability and innovation. 
• SEMA and its 7,000 member businesses are the heart of the U.S. automotive aftermarket industry, which annually contributes more than $337 billion to the U.S. economy and supports more than 1.3 million American jobs.  
• Most of the businesses that make up the aftermarket are small businesses, but there is nothing small about the innovation and ingenuity they show every day. The products that aftermarket businesses manufacture, sell, and distribute to automotive enthusiasts worldwide are a testament to our nation’s engineering superiority. 
• The SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the largest trade show in North America, with 160,000 attendees expected, annually includes the centerpiece “FutureTech Studio” activation, where the organization showcases different propulsion technologies, including EV, hybrid, hydrogen, alternative fuels, and other technological advancements that represent the “what’s next, what’s possible” of the American automotive industry.  
• SEMA is not anti-EV, nor will it ever be. Rather, SEMA is passionate about protecting the freedom of businesses to deliver the next groundbreaking product, and the American consumer’s freedom to choose whether that product fits their needs and lifestyle. Such innovation can only be delivered through technology-neutral government policy and by allowing the marketplace to drive demand for these products. 

ABOUT SEMA 

SEMA (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 | Rost9

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA is celebrating the Trump Administration's decision to rescind the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, dubious policy positions that empowered regulators at the federal and state levels to override consumer choices on vehicles. Among those abuses were federal- and state-led efforts to ban internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and impose nationwide electric vehicle (EV) mandates. 

• By following through with its intent to repeal the GHG endangerment finding, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is unleashing innovation in a significant segment of the automotive aftermarket industry that is entirely dependent on ICE technology. That segment, which has a $100 billion annual economic impact, and employs more than 330,000 Americans, is now free to rely on free-market solutions to our emissions challenges. 

"This is a tremendous decision by the EPA to course-correct after nearly two decades of abuses by previous administrations at the federal and state levels, and instead return sanity to our nation’s environmental policies," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "It was with great trepidation that SEMA watched our nation’s leaders demonize and ban the very motor vehicles that serve as the bedrock upon which the American people--families, small businesses, and automotive enthusiasts--rely to live their best, most prosperous lives. It was even more infuriating to watch these policymakers brazenly justify their actions with a dubious policy position that now rightly goes away, to be replaced with a common-sense, free-market view of what drives our nation’s prosperity."

BACKGROUND 

• The EPA's decision will directly impact federal new car requirements and does not impact existing emissions laws established by the Clean Air Act. Instead, it will ensure that automakers produce vehicles driven by consumer demand, rather than greenhouse gas limits, that latter of which has significantly influenced the models of vehicles available to the American people since 2009. This policy shift will directly impact the range of new vehicle choices that exist in the coming years.  
• In comments responding to the EPA's rulemaking for Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OAR–2025–0194 — Reconsideration of the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, SEMA identified economic and cultural considerations for re-establishing a foundation of vehicle choice in the U.S. automotive market, which, because of recent GHG emissions policies, have experienced an erosion of affordability and innovation. 
• SEMA and its 7,000 member businesses are the heart of the U.S. automotive aftermarket industry, which annually contributes more than $337 billion to the U.S. economy and supports more than 1.3 million American jobs.  
• Most of the businesses that make up the aftermarket are small businesses, but there is nothing small about the innovation and ingenuity they show every day. The products that aftermarket businesses manufacture, sell, and distribute to automotive enthusiasts worldwide are a testament to our nation’s engineering superiority. 
• The SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the largest trade show in North America, with 160,000 attendees expected, annually includes the centerpiece “FutureTech Studio” activation, where the organization showcases different propulsion technologies, including EV, hybrid, hydrogen, alternative fuels, and other technological advancements that represent the “what’s next, what’s possible” of the American automotive industry.  
• SEMA is not anti-EV, nor will it ever be. Rather, SEMA is passionate about protecting the freedom of businesses to deliver the next groundbreaking product, and the American consumer’s freedom to choose whether that product fits their needs and lifestyle. Such innovation can only be delivered through technology-neutral government policy and by allowing the marketplace to drive demand for these products. 

ABOUT SEMA 

SEMA (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 | Rost9

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA is celebrating the Trump Administration's decision to rescind the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, dubious policy positions that empowered regulators at the federal and state levels to override consumer choices on vehicles. Among those abuses were federal- and state-led efforts to ban internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and impose nationwide electric vehicle (EV) mandates. 

• By following through with its intent to repeal the GHG endangerment finding, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is unleashing innovation in a significant segment of the automotive aftermarket industry that is entirely dependent on ICE technology. That segment, which has a $100 billion annual economic impact, and employs more than 330,000 Americans, is now free to rely on free-market solutions to our emissions challenges. 

"This is a tremendous decision by the EPA to course-correct after nearly two decades of abuses by previous administrations at the federal and state levels, and instead return sanity to our nation’s environmental policies," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "It was with great trepidation that SEMA watched our nation’s leaders demonize and ban the very motor vehicles that serve as the bedrock upon which the American people--families, small businesses, and automotive enthusiasts--rely to live their best, most prosperous lives. It was even more infuriating to watch these policymakers brazenly justify their actions with a dubious policy position that now rightly goes away, to be replaced with a common-sense, free-market view of what drives our nation’s prosperity."

BACKGROUND 

• The EPA's decision will directly impact federal new car requirements and does not impact existing emissions laws established by the Clean Air Act. Instead, it will ensure that automakers produce vehicles driven by consumer demand, rather than greenhouse gas limits, that latter of which has significantly influenced the models of vehicles available to the American people since 2009. This policy shift will directly impact the range of new vehicle choices that exist in the coming years.  
• In comments responding to the EPA's rulemaking for Docket ID No. EPA–HQ–OAR–2025–0194 — Reconsideration of the 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards, SEMA identified economic and cultural considerations for re-establishing a foundation of vehicle choice in the U.S. automotive market, which, because of recent GHG emissions policies, have experienced an erosion of affordability and innovation. 
• SEMA and its 7,000 member businesses are the heart of the U.S. automotive aftermarket industry, which annually contributes more than $337 billion to the U.S. economy and supports more than 1.3 million American jobs.  
• Most of the businesses that make up the aftermarket are small businesses, but there is nothing small about the innovation and ingenuity they show every day. The products that aftermarket businesses manufacture, sell, and distribute to automotive enthusiasts worldwide are a testament to our nation’s engineering superiority. 
• The SEMA Show in Las Vegas, the largest trade show in North America, with 160,000 attendees expected, annually includes the centerpiece “FutureTech Studio” activation, where the organization showcases different propulsion technologies, including EV, hybrid, hydrogen, alternative fuels, and other technological advancements that represent the “what’s next, what’s possible” of the American automotive industry.  
• SEMA is not anti-EV, nor will it ever be. Rather, SEMA is passionate about protecting the freedom of businesses to deliver the next groundbreaking product, and the American consumer’s freedom to choose whether that product fits their needs and lifestyle. Such innovation can only be delivered through technology-neutral government policy and by allowing the marketplace to drive demand for these products. 

ABOUT SEMA 

SEMA (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 | Rost9

By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings.

Viair Corp.

Social-Media Coordinator in Irvine, California

Viair Corp. is looking for a social-media coordinator to create content for social media, filming, and editing social videos and photography, and to manage the brand's social-media accounts.

Muscle Car Restorations

Automotive Body and Paint Technician in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

Muscle Car Restorations is seeking an experienced technician to work in its body and paint department. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in automotive body and paint, along with a love of classic automobiles.

RaceTec Pistons

Sales Lead in Huntington Beach, California

RaceTec is seeking a hands-on sales lead with real automotive performance and engine-building experience to support and grow our aftermarket, builder and distributor customer base, while serving as the primary inside partner to our regional field sales representatives.

Feed Image Courtesy of Shutterstock | VectorFusionArt

By SEMA News Editors

PRI Returns as Hoosier 500 Title Sponsor, Broadcast Partner

Organizers of the PRI Hoosier 500 have released the preliminary event schedule for the 2026 PRI Hoosier 500.

Race day for the annual sim race will be December 13, 2026, with PRI returning as the official title sponsor and broadcast partner for the race.

Opening Day for PRI Hoosier 500 practice will be November 30, with additional official practice days assigned to December 1-3. Fast Friday, the final day of practice prior to qualifications, is scheduled for December 4.

Qualifications will be held across two days as is standard for the event. Day one qualifications on December 5, will feature the first chance for competitors to make time trial attempts, and the driver with the fastest four-lap average at the end of the day will earn the 2026 PRI Hoosier 500 Pole Award.

Day two qualifications--Bump Day--are scheduled for December 6, which will be utilized to finalize the field of 33 racers who will take the grid on race day. The fastest 33 qualifiers make the field, and all other drivers are sent home.

December 7 will feature the final full official practice session prior to race weekend, while Media Day has been scheduled for December 8.

Race weekend begins on December 12, with final PRI Hoosier 500 practice and additional support events, building towards race day on December 13.

Dates are tentative and subject to change. Official session times will be confirmed later this year, prior to the registration period's opening. Further information about the 2026 event will be announced at a later date.

For more information, visit thehoosier500.com.

Scott Dixon, Giampaolo Dallara Voted Into IMS Hall of Fame

Two IndyCar icons are being inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is pleased to announce Scott Dixon and Giampaolo Dallara as the two inductees for the Class of 2026. 

They will be formally celebrated at the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner on Thursday, May 21 at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in downtown Indianapolis. 

Dixon and Dallara were chosen by a national panel of more than 150 journalists, drivers, industry leaders, historians and other members of the Hall of Fame. This was the first appearance on the ballot for them both. 

"Scott Dixon and Giampaolo Dallara are at the very top of their respective fields. Their consistency, skill and unwavering determination have led to success not only at Indianapolis Motor Speedway but in every aspect of their careers," IMS Museum President Michael Good said. "The Museum is honored to be the steward of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame, and we're thrilled to add these two deserving inductees." 

Scott Dixon, driver of the No. 9 PNC Bank Chip Ganassi Racing Honda, is a six-time NTT INDYCAR SERIES Champion and winner of the 2008 Indianapolis 500. He's secured five pole positions for "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," second to Rick Mears' record six. The New Zealand native returns to Chip Ganassi Racing for his 25th season in 2026--the longest tenure for a driver in team history. Dixon's six championships and 59 career wins are both second in series history behind the legendary A.J. Foyt. Known for his consistency, Dixon finished third in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES championship in 2025 and won a race for a record 21st consecutive season. He is the first active full-time driver to be inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame.   

"It is a huge honor to be inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame. It's such a historic venue in motorsports and means so much to me, having raced here for so many years now. Honestly, it feels a little surreal as I'm still focused on winning here in May. It's the competition that drives me, even in year 25 with Chip Ganassi Racing. The Indianapolis 500 is the biggest sporting event in the world, and another win here would be incredible, so that's the goal for 2026," Dixon said.  

Giampaolo Dallara founded "Dallara Automobili da Competizione" in 1972 in his hometown in Italy, building cars for F1 and F3. He began his career as an engineer at Ferrari, followed by key roles at Maserati, Lamborghini and Williams De Tomaso. He used that experience to launch his company, which for more than 50 years has developed itself in the business of designing, manufacturing and supporting some of the world's most competitive racecars with particular focus on both safety and performance. The company started producing Indy cars in 1997 and has been the sole chassis supplier since 2008. In 2012, Dallara expanded its U.S. operations by opening the Dallara Experience Hub in Speedway, Indiana, where the company produces and assembles chassis for a variety of racing series.

"Being inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame is truly an honor. The Indianapolis 500 has inspired me since the very beginning of my career, and our journey in the United States has been built on passion, innovation and extraordinary people," Dallara said. "I am grateful to the teams, drivers and partners who have trusted our work for so many years. This recognition belongs to all of them as much as it does to me."

For more information, visit imsmuseum.org/hall-of-fame.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI are expanding their Right-to-Race advocacy campaign nationwide. The time to protect race tracks is now, before more long-standing facilities are pushed out of their communities. Learn more at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-race. 

Here's the latest on SEMA and PRI's Right-to-Race advocacy campaign:  

Georgia 

Georgia lawmakers have moved quickly to advance House Bill (HB) 1066. Less than a week after its introduction, the bill received a hearing in the State and Local Government Subcommittee, where SEMA and PRI testified in support. Testimony highlighted the economic contributions and community impact that racing facilities have on real families across lawmakers’ districts. The bill passed the full Government Affairs Committee the following day. 

A group of race track owners and operators also spoke in support of the legislation, sharing an often-overlooked reality: race tracks regularly give back to their communities by hosting charity events and raising funds for local nonprofits. Investing in race tracks is investing in local communities. 

Missouri  

HB 3177 was introduced by Rep. Matt Matthiesen in the first week of February. This bill mirrors legislation in other states and extends that protection to inverse‑condemnation‑style claims, in which property owners can't sue the government or race tracks on the grounds that their property is unusable and therefore "taken," because of a race track's normal actions. The bill also bars state and local governments from filing nuisance actions against race tracks operating in compliance with permits and law.  

Wisconsin  

SEMA and PRI returned to Wisconsin during the second week of February to testify in support of SB 872 before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Local Government. In the weeks leading up to the hearing, the SEMA and PRI Government Affairs team met with committee members to familiarize lawmakers with the policy before it reached their desks. 

Numerous organizations publicly voiced support for the legislation, including the Association of Wisconsin Tourism Attractions and the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. In addition, the League of Wisconsin Municipalities acknowledged race tracks as tourism drivers that help foster a strong sense of community. Most tracks are small, multi-generational businesses with limited resources. Many have been operating for decades, and with the right protections in place, they are here to stay. 

BACKGROUND 

The Right-to-Race efforts in Georgia, Missouri and Wisconsin are part of a coordinated, multi-state initiative led by SEMA and PRI to provide consistent protections for motorsports facilities nationwide. As more states advance similar legislation, the campaign is expected to continue gaining traction throughout the 2026 legislative cycle. 

SEMA and PRI will continue partnering with policymakers and the racing community to advance these bills and protect race tracks as vital economic and cultural institutions for generations to come. 

Learn more about the impact of motorsports on your state and community by taking a look at PRI's 2025 Motorsports Economic Impact Study, with an interactive map showing how racing drives economic success. 

For more information and to get involved in race track nuisance protection efforts in your state, contact SEMA Government Affairs at governmentaffairs@sema.org. 

For state-specific questions, contact one of our senior managers for state government affairs: 

• Tierra Hubbard (East Coast) at tierrah@sema.org 
• Victor Muñoz (West Coast) at victorm@sema.org 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Matthew Jacques

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI are expanding their Right-to-Race advocacy campaign nationwide. The time to protect race tracks is now, before more long-standing facilities are pushed out of their communities. Learn more at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-race. 

Here's the latest on SEMA and PRI's Right-to-Race advocacy campaign:  

Georgia 

Georgia lawmakers have moved quickly to advance House Bill (HB) 1066. Less than a week after its introduction, the bill received a hearing in the State and Local Government Subcommittee, where SEMA and PRI testified in support. Testimony highlighted the economic contributions and community impact that racing facilities have on real families across lawmakers’ districts. The bill passed the full Government Affairs Committee the following day. 

A group of race track owners and operators also spoke in support of the legislation, sharing an often-overlooked reality: race tracks regularly give back to their communities by hosting charity events and raising funds for local nonprofits. Investing in race tracks is investing in local communities. 

Missouri  

HB 3177 was introduced by Rep. Matt Matthiesen in the first week of February. This bill mirrors legislation in other states and extends that protection to inverse‑condemnation‑style claims, in which property owners can't sue the government or race tracks on the grounds that their property is unusable and therefore "taken," because of a race track's normal actions. The bill also bars state and local governments from filing nuisance actions against race tracks operating in compliance with permits and law.  

Wisconsin  

SEMA and PRI returned to Wisconsin during the second week of February to testify in support of SB 872 before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Local Government. In the weeks leading up to the hearing, the SEMA and PRI Government Affairs team met with committee members to familiarize lawmakers with the policy before it reached their desks. 

Numerous organizations publicly voiced support for the legislation, including the Association of Wisconsin Tourism Attractions and the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. In addition, the League of Wisconsin Municipalities acknowledged race tracks as tourism drivers that help foster a strong sense of community. Most tracks are small, multi-generational businesses with limited resources. Many have been operating for decades, and with the right protections in place, they are here to stay. 

BACKGROUND 

The Right-to-Race efforts in Georgia, Missouri and Wisconsin are part of a coordinated, multi-state initiative led by SEMA and PRI to provide consistent protections for motorsports facilities nationwide. As more states advance similar legislation, the campaign is expected to continue gaining traction throughout the 2026 legislative cycle. 

SEMA and PRI will continue partnering with policymakers and the racing community to advance these bills and protect race tracks as vital economic and cultural institutions for generations to come. 

Learn more about the impact of motorsports on your state and community by taking a look at PRI's 2025 Motorsports Economic Impact Study, with an interactive map showing how racing drives economic success. 

For more information and to get involved in race track nuisance protection efforts in your state, contact SEMA Government Affairs at governmentaffairs@sema.org. 

For state-specific questions, contact one of our senior managers for state government affairs: 

• Tierra Hubbard (East Coast) at tierrah@sema.org 
• Victor Muñoz (West Coast) at victorm@sema.org 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Matthew Jacques

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI are expanding their Right-to-Race advocacy campaign nationwide. The time to protect race tracks is now, before more long-standing facilities are pushed out of their communities. Learn more at sema.org/advocacy/right-to-race. 

Here's the latest on SEMA and PRI's Right-to-Race advocacy campaign:  

Georgia 

Georgia lawmakers have moved quickly to advance House Bill (HB) 1066. Less than a week after its introduction, the bill received a hearing in the State and Local Government Subcommittee, where SEMA and PRI testified in support. Testimony highlighted the economic contributions and community impact that racing facilities have on real families across lawmakers’ districts. The bill passed the full Government Affairs Committee the following day. 

A group of race track owners and operators also spoke in support of the legislation, sharing an often-overlooked reality: race tracks regularly give back to their communities by hosting charity events and raising funds for local nonprofits. Investing in race tracks is investing in local communities. 

Missouri  

HB 3177 was introduced by Rep. Matt Matthiesen in the first week of February. This bill mirrors legislation in other states and extends that protection to inverse‑condemnation‑style claims, in which property owners can't sue the government or race tracks on the grounds that their property is unusable and therefore "taken," because of a race track's normal actions. The bill also bars state and local governments from filing nuisance actions against race tracks operating in compliance with permits and law.  

Wisconsin  

SEMA and PRI returned to Wisconsin during the second week of February to testify in support of SB 872 before the Senate Committee on Transportation and Local Government. In the weeks leading up to the hearing, the SEMA and PRI Government Affairs team met with committee members to familiarize lawmakers with the policy before it reached their desks. 

Numerous organizations publicly voiced support for the legislation, including the Association of Wisconsin Tourism Attractions and the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. In addition, the League of Wisconsin Municipalities acknowledged race tracks as tourism drivers that help foster a strong sense of community. Most tracks are small, multi-generational businesses with limited resources. Many have been operating for decades, and with the right protections in place, they are here to stay. 

BACKGROUND 

The Right-to-Race efforts in Georgia, Missouri and Wisconsin are part of a coordinated, multi-state initiative led by SEMA and PRI to provide consistent protections for motorsports facilities nationwide. As more states advance similar legislation, the campaign is expected to continue gaining traction throughout the 2026 legislative cycle. 

SEMA and PRI will continue partnering with policymakers and the racing community to advance these bills and protect race tracks as vital economic and cultural institutions for generations to come. 

Learn more about the impact of motorsports on your state and community by taking a look at PRI's 2025 Motorsports Economic Impact Study, with an interactive map showing how racing drives economic success. 

For more information and to get involved in race track nuisance protection efforts in your state, contact SEMA Government Affairs at governmentaffairs@sema.org. 

For state-specific questions, contact one of our senior managers for state government affairs: 

• Tierra Hubbard (East Coast) at tierrah@sema.org 
• Victor Muñoz (West Coast) at victorm@sema.org 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Matthew Jacques

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Compact and Electric: The All-New Hyundai Ioniq 3

The fully electric Hyundai Concept Three celebrated its world premiere at IAA 2025. It is the first compact electric car concept under Hyundai's Ioniq sub-brand and is intended to provide a glimpse into the European EV compact segment. The production model, named Hyundai Ioniq 3, will be positioned between the equally new Inster and the comparably sized but more practical Kona Electric starting in 2026, possibly even replacing the latter in the long term. However, this is speculation.

Like most of the group's electric cars, the Hyundai Ioniq 3 will be based on the extremely flexible E-GMP architecture. It is, therefore, very likely that, like its sister model, the Kia EV3, it will have a 110-kW (150hp) electric motor on the front axle.

It is also conceivable that there will be two battery sizes to choose from. In the case of the EV3, the 58.3-kWh battery is said to enable a range of 271 miles, while the 81.4-kWh variant is said to enable a range of 376 miles. Thanks to its more aerodynamic shape, however, the Ioniq 3 could squeeze a few extra miles out of the battery packs. DC charging is possible on its sister model at up to 101 or 128 kW, with the preconditioned battery expected to go from 10% to 80% in 30 minutes.

The question of a sporty top-of-the-range model is interesting, as Kia recently unveiled the 215 kW (292 hp) EV3 GT. An equivalent Hyundai Ioniq 3 N is not unrealistic, especially since the discontinuation of the i30 N has left a gap in the compact sports car segment. It could also compete with the VW ID.3 GTX.

Images of a still-camouflaged prototype paint a fairly clear picture of what the Hyundai Ioniq 3 is likely to look like as a production model. Similarities with the Hyundai Veloster are hard to ignore. This impression is created in particular by the similarly sloping roof, contrasted by a window line that rises toward the rear.

As is typical for electric cars, the wheelbase is relatively long while the overhangs are kept short. At the front we see split headlights, which we also know from the facelifted Ioniq 6. The rear spoiler, which also includes a rearview camera, is striking. One more note on the expected dimensions of the production model: the approximately 4.3m-long Concept Three is likely to provide another indication.

Thinner Camouflage: The Next-Generation Hyundai Bayon

Despite extreme winter temperatures, a prototype of the next-generation Hyundai Bayon took off the thick winter clothing it wore last week and lets us get a more detailed look at its new shape.

Hyundai is accelerating its global SUV lineup with the next-generation Hyundai Bayon, codenamed BC4. Thanks to these new spy shots, we can now position the new Bayon as a potential game changer in the subcompact SUV segment, with fresh styling, more space than its predecessor and equipment and powertrain options that edge into territory occupied by the current Hyundai Kona.

Unlike the outgoing Bayon, which has often been described as a hatchback-based crossover, the BC4 generation appears to have grown in size and presence. The spy shots indicate a boxier silhouette and a more conventional SUV stance, moving beyond its earlier design roots.

While exact dimensions for the BC4 are not yet confirmed, industry insiders suggest Hyundai has given the new Bayon a longer wheelbase and broader track to improve interior space, cargo capacity and overall road presence. This positions it as a more mature SUV choice and could make it more competitive against rivals that offer vehicles with a similar footprint.

Early reports also hint at a significant interior overhaul, with a fully digital instrument cluster, larger touchscreen display and an upgraded suite of safety technology. These enhancements would not only modernize the Bayon but also align it with current segment leaders in features and comfort.

One of the most intriguing implications of the next-gen Bayon's evolution is its potential impact on Hyundai Kona sales. Traditionally, the Kona sits above the Bayon in the lineup, offering more powertrain options including full EV variants in some markets. However, with the Bayon BC4 becoming larger, better equipped and available with a hybrid powertrain and sportier N Line trim, it may attract buyers who might otherwise have stepped up to the Kona, especially those prioritizing efficiency, price and everyday usability.

A larger, more refined Bayon could be especially appealing in markets where pricing sensitivity is high and hybrid efficiency is a strong selling point. If Hyundai positions the BC4 competitively, it could shrink the Kona's sweet spot, particularly for consumers who do not need the full performance or EV capabilities of the Kona lineup.

Hyundai has not formally confirmed specifications or launch dates for the next-generation Bayon, but automotive news outlets expect a global debut in 2026, with production versions appearing first in Europe and South Korea before rolling out to other markets. Given Hyundai's aggressive electrification and SUV expansion plans, the BC4 Bayon may play a key role in its strategy to capture more of the compact SUV segment worldwide.