By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is accepting applications for its annual PRO Cup Challenge, taking place at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas.

Designed to celebrate the creativity, craftsmanship and passion that drive the automotive-customization industry, the competition invites automotive restylers to design an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. The goal of the program is to show restylers, dealerships and accessory manufacturers the benefit of designing marketable accessory packages instead of "one-time" vehicles. 

To qualify for the competition, the restyled vehicle must have maximum labor hours of 40 hours per package installed and a wholesale cost of no more than $12,500 to the dealer. 

Benefits of competing include:  

Vehicle Placement in West Hall  

Selected companies will have their vehicle showcased in the PRO booth in West Hall, putting their skills and brand in front of thousands of buyers and media.  

Recognition From Peers, Public  

Judges made of industry experts will select a PRO Cup Challenge winner based on the accessory package's marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity and profitability. SEMA Showgoers will vote for their favorite accessory package and recognize it with the People's Choice Award. 

Brand Exposure  

Competing shops and their vehicles are featured in SEMA and PRO publications and social media leading up to, during and after the SEMA Show. 

Networking Opportunities  

Companies participate in networking and recognition opportunities at SEMA Show PRO events, opening the door to valuable industry connections and potential partnerships. 

Build Industry Credibility  

Restylers can position themselves as experts in their field by creating custom vehicle options that stand out in dealership showrooms. By participating in the challenge, restylers can demonstrate their ability to attract new customers, increase sales and build lasting customer loyalty.

Applications are due July 25. If selected, competitors must complete and submit a build sheet with the basic concept of their package by September 5. Apply here today and learn more about the PRO Cup Challenge at the 2025 SEMA Show here. 

PRO is looking for member manufacturers to donate parts or offer parts at a discounted price to PRO Cup Challenge applicants. This is a great opportunity to showcase your products on the vehicles that are selected for the competition. Sign up here. 

By SEMA News Editors

Time is running out to take advantage of the best possible pricing for your 2025 SEMA Show badge. Right now, online registration for qualified professional attendees is only $50 per person through Friday, June 27. On June 28, the rate will increase to $75 per person, before increasing again on September 27 to $100 per person, both online and on-site.

Maximize your savings. Register now!

The 2025 SEMA Show, taking place from November 4–7 in Las Vegas, offers an attendee experience like no other automotive trade show on the planet. Attending is a no-brainer for automotive professionals, enthusiasts, media members, influencers and related industry members.

Below are seven reasons why you need to secure their registration (available online here and at the bottom of this article) for this year's SEMA Show:

• Exhibitors: Discover the latest product and vehicle trends across dozens of product categories: Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road; Restyling & Car Care Accessories; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Business Services; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Racing & Performance; Hot Rod Alley; Restoration Marketplace; Collision Repair & Refinish; Tools & Equipment; Global Tire Expo--Powered by TIA (tires) and Wheels & Accessories; and First-Time and Featured Exhibitors.
• New Products Showcase: Visit the New Products Showcase to discover thousands of the latest exhibitor products displayed in one location of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Use the SEMA Show mobile app's "Product Scanner" feature to scan and download product photos and exhibitor information that will remain on your app long after the SEMA Show has ended.
• Education: SEMA Show Education is the single most crucial week of the year to power a professional development plan for your business and career. Through sessions and unique, immersive programs that explore the industry's most significant challenges and offer immediate takeaways, there is something for every automotive professional.
• Networking: The SEMA Show is where connections are built—network with exhibitors, industry leaders and VIPs/celebrities from more than 140 countries and regions. Use the Show's mobile app to view lists of all events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances, and speakers, including date, time, and location. In addition, this year's program includes SEMA Council & Networks receptions, happy hours and meetings--all designed to help you advance your business and grow your network. You'll also have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with others in the industry and build meaningful relationships that'll lead to real results and high-quality connections.
• Show Features: The SEMA Show is teeming with the latest innovations and trends, showcased in several dedicated areas like the SEMA Battle of the Builders; the SEMA FutureTech Studio; the outdoors Optima Village; feature vehicle displays; SEMA Garage: ADAS, Emissions and Product Development; the Collision Repair & Refinish Stage; the Overland Experience; the SEMA Show Art Walk, the International Pavilion and more to be announced.
• Show Events: Unique events and activations, such as the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, the SEMA Industry Honors now at the iconic Fontainebleau, and vehicle demonstrations, will provide ample opportunities for the industry to unite.
• And much more: Of course, attending the SEMA Show in Las Vegas is the best way to boost an automotive professional's business and career path, but be sure to make the most of your time in Vegas with ancillary events like after-hours networking and SEMA Fest, a celebration of motorsports, music and car culture. Note: Your SEMA Show badge does not provide access to SEMA Fest. Visit SEMAFest.com to stay up-to-date and discover when tickets will be available.

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 SEMA News Editors

Housing reservations are now open for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, including several new hotels, available at the lowest possible nightly rates through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

Driving to the Show? See the list below for hotels offering free parking during the Show and book through onPeak to secure your stay.  

SEMA Show and onPeak offer attendees and exhibitors the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas, as well as numerous other benefits for Showgoers.

Hotel reservations for the 2025 SEMA Show--November 4-7, Las Vegas--are now open online here. Registration for the 2025 SEMA Show will open on Monday, April 28.

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2025 SEMA Show.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA+, the new membership for anyone who has a passion for cars, trucks, racing, wrenching or just being a part of the scene, is the best way to stay connected with the car community and claim your all-access pass to some of the aftermarket's premier events.  

Into racing? You're in luck! Join now to take advantage of an exclusive opportunity for SEMA+ members to get $10 off tickets (you can buy more than one!) and reserved seating for at: 

19th Annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals 

Norwalk, Ohio | June 27-29, 2025 

Summit Motorsports Park

Bring your friends. Bring your family. Watch some of the fastest cars on the planet tear down the track. 

But that's not all! 

If seeing the latest parts, newest innovations and groundbreaking builds is more your style, joining SEMA+ is your chance to be where the automotive world comes together with an exclusive offer for a discount on tickets for:

"SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public"

Las Vegas, Nevada | November 7, 2025

Las Vegas Convention Center

SEMA+ members get $10 off their "SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public" ticket (limit one per member).

This one-day, Friday-only event opens the doors of the world's largest automotive aftermarket show to enthusiasts, giving you access to: 

• The legendary SEMA Show floor 
• Curated vehicle builds 
• Outdoor demonstrations 
• Future-shaping trends and innovation 

Already a member?  

👉 Login to claim your discounts on these exclusive offers. 

Not yet a member? 

Join for just $40/year ($3.33/month) and get: 

✔ Discounts on events, parts and brands. 

✔ Access to members-only perks. 

✔ Membership to SEMA's first-ever car and truck club. 

Don't miss out on these epic events and stay tuned for more event announcements coming your way. Whether you work on cars and trucks or just love them, SEMA+ is for you. 

Join now → sema.org/plus 

By SEMA News Editors

Valentine Performance Detailing

Garage Gloss Floor Finish

Adding to the company’s garage and paddock protection solutions, VPD has launched its new Garage Gloss, a polymer-based floor finish that delivers brilliant, long-lasting shine, according to the manufacturer. Garage Gloss has a durable, quick-curing formula that ensures floors stay glossy and protected and provides a slip-resistant finish that is safe to use on all floors, including vinyl tile, linoleum, sealed wood, terrazzo, rubber and more.

valentineperformance.com

AMSOIL

Quick Detailer, Wheel and Tire Cleaner, and Tire and Trim Protectant

AMSOIL has expanded its specially formulated line of car-care products with the addition of its new Quick Detailer, Wheel and Tire Cleaner, and Tire and Trim Protectant. The Quick Detailer is formulated with surfactants and cleaning agents designed to lubricate while lifting away light dust and debris from painted and plastic surfaces. The Wheel and Tire Cleaner with two-in-one formula is pH-balanced to safely break down brake dust, road grime and tire blooming, and is made without harsh solvents to ensure an effective clean without harming wheels or tires. The Tire and Trim Protectant features an advanced, non-greasy formulation helps condition rubber and exterior plastic trim for a long-lasting satin or gloss finish.

amsoil.com

Optronics

4-in. Round STL104 Series Custom LED Logo Lights 

Optronics has announced the launch of its STL104 Series custom LED logo lights in 4-in. round format as a low-cost alternative to Optronics’ original logo light. Each STL104 Series custom logo light features 29 SMD LEDs configured specifically for its round footprint, with 10 LEDs paired with optics for optimal light output and the remaining 19 LEDs illuminating the logo portion during stop and turn functions. It offers an industry-standard PL3 connection and grommet mounting, with other connection and mounting options available.

optronicsinc.com

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Shelby Chrisman, buyer at Warn Industries DBA Fabtech Motorsports, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

Get to know Chrisman in her interview with SEMA News below. 

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

Shelby Chrisman: Respect the janitor the same way you would the CEO of the company. This has helped in building strong team environments and understanding that it takes every level of the company to be successful.

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

SC: My love and passion for automotive/motorsports.

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

SC: At home watching the drag races or at the track.

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

SC: I review notes, organize topics that I want to cover, have questions in order and know my audience.

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

SC: Mickey Thompson. Mickey has a huge impact on the industry, and I would love to hear his stories.

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

By Ashley Reyes

Starting in 2029, vehicle manufacturers must make automatic emergency braking (AEB) standard in cars and light trucks, per the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 127. The final rule applies to nearly all American light vehicles, impacting all aftermarket manufacturers that modify systems that interact with AEB.  

On June 17 at 1:00 p.m. PDT, several of SEMA's councils and networks in collaboration with the SEMA Garage will host a webinar to provide aftermarket manufacturers and install shops with a high-level overview of FMVSS No. 127, applicability, implementation timing and steps to take now to be prepared. 

Compliance requirements are less than five years out, which is a short timeline for product development. While many aftermarket products are likely to directly affect advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) functionality, members also need to understand how to quantify the impacts and risks of taking a vehicle out of FMVSS safety compliance and how ensuring compliance can save them from a lawsuit in the future. 

Register here.

This webinar is hosted in collaboration with the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN), SEMA Professional Restylers Organizations (PRO), SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA), SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) and the SEMA Garage.  

By Ashley Reyes

QA1 President and CEO Melissa Scoles and representatives from QA1 accept the 2024 SEMA Manufacturer of the Year award.

In honor of the dedication and hard work that drives the automotive specialty-equipment industry, SEMA is accepting nominations for its 2025 Manufacturer of the Year award. Presented at the SEMA Show--November 4-7, Las Vegas--the award honors a manufacturing business that has made outstanding contributions to the specialty-automotive industry during SEMA's fiscal year of July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. 

"The automotive aftermarket industry relies on manufacturers to drive innovation, bolster economic growth, and champion careers that advance the industry," said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Jose Escobar. "Submitting a nomination is a great way to help us identify a company that has gone above and beyond in these areas and that is worthy of this prestigious recognition." 

To be considered, a company must: 

• Be from the automotive aftermarket industry 
• Be a SEMA member and actively involved (e.g., utilizes association benefits, service of councils/networks, task forces, committees, board etc.) 
• Demonstrate outstanding business practices 
• Establish innovative processes and products 
• Exhibit a high degree of corporate responsibility by investing in and contributing to their local community 
• Display workforce excellence and invest in the well-being of their employees 
• Provide outstanding service to their customers 
• Demonstrate high-quality retail displays and packaging 
• Have complete and high-quality product data and provide new product data sets in a timely manner 
• Do an outstanding job protecting their brand equity 

SEMA is also accepting nominations for other prestigious SEMA Industry Awards at sema.org/awards until Friday, August 15. 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. 

The 2025 SEMA Show festivities will 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. 

Learn more about the SEMA Manufacturer of the Year award and other SEMA industry awards currently accepting nominations at sema.org/awards. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The SEMA and PRI PAC is pulling into Norwalk, Ohio, June 27-29 for an exclusive weekend at the NHRA Summit Racing Equipment Nationals--and you're invited to join us for a VIP experience.

SEMA and PRI PAC is offering premium race seating, a catered hospitality tent with open bar and behind-the-scenes access, all in support of the PAC that defends motorsports, your right to modify and the future of our industry.

This year alone, SEMA and PRI PAC supporters have helped secure major legislative victories in Oregon, Arkansas, Iowa and New Hampshire, stopping bills that would have threatened racetracks and undercut our racing community. This event is a chance to celebrate those wins, maintain our momentum and fortify for the next fight.

Make your SEMA and PRI PAC contribution to be eligible for this unparalleled opportunity.

To RSVP or learn more, contact Christian Robinson, SEMA and PRI's senior director for state government affairs, at christianr@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The SEMA and PRI PAC is pulling into Norwalk, Ohio, June 27-29 for an exclusive weekend at the NHRA Summit Racing Equipment Nationals--and you're invited to join us for a VIP experience.

SEMA and PRI PAC is offering premium race seating, a catered hospitality tent with open bar and behind-the-scenes access, all in support of the PAC that defends motorsports, your right to modify and the future of our industry.

This year alone, SEMA and PRI PAC supporters have helped secure major legislative victories in Oregon, Arkansas, Iowa and New Hampshire, stopping bills that would have threatened racetracks and undercut our racing community. This event is a chance to celebrate those wins, maintain our momentum and fortify for the next fight.

Make your SEMA and PRI PAC contribution to be eligible for this unparalleled opportunity.

To RSVP or learn more, contact Christian Robinson, SEMA and PRI's senior director for state government affairs, at christianr@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock