Thu, 09/03/2026 - 04:00

Aston Martin Testing Vantage RS

Aston Martin Vantage RS on track.

 

In 2024, the Aston Martin Vantage was given a mid-cycle refresh. The updated iteration sports a new front fascia, an updated interior with a 10.25-in. infotainment screen that is similar to the one found on the superior DB12, enhanced aerodynamics, a larger grille and a stiffer body structure. The twin-turbocharged 4.0-L V8 engine was also reworked as part of the facelift, and it now offers 30 percent more output and 15 percent more torque.

However, the company is still not done with the lineup, as an even more exciting version is in the works. Caught in the open on several occasions, it is understood to gain the RS suffix to justify the aerodynamic upgrades and the supposed power boost.

Aston Martin Vantage RS on track.

 

The Aston Martin Vantage RS (name unconfirmed) features a reworked front fascia, with a completely new grille design and a pair of air intakes that remind us of the RTR Mustang. The vents on the sides of the bumper appear to be the same as before, though the splitter is a bit more pronounced and has wings on the sides.

The side skirts appear to be a bit sportier this time, and the wheel arches are just as fat as before. The door mirrors carry over, and so do the vents on the front fenders. One of the biggest changes can be seen at the rear, where a massive wing now decorates the boot lid. The taillights carry over, and the bumper and diffuser now sport a more aggressive design.

Aston Martin Vantage RS on track.

 

Moreover, while the regular Vantage has four round exhaust tips on the sides, this prototype features as many tailpipes, but mounted in the middle of the diffuser. Chances are that the brakes have been slightly uprated, and the same probably goes for the chassis, as customers would expect an RS to be a bit stiffer for enhanced cornering capabilities.

Work under the hood will be done by the twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, which is understood to have been upgraded. On the Vantage S, the mill puts out 680 hp and 800 Nm of torque, hooked up to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This model hits 62 mph in 3.4 seconds and maxes out at 202 mph.

If rumors prove right, expect more power from the Aston Martin Vantage RS, though figures have yet to be revealed. Some say that the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission will be reworked to better handle the alleged extra power and will continue to channel the output and thrust to the rear wheels, because all versions of the Vantage have a front-mid-engine and rear-wheel-drive layout.

 

All-Electric, Two-Ton SUV: BMW iX5 M

BMW iX5 M testing on track.

 

The BMW X5 is in for a serious redesign both inside and out and beneath the skin, and while plenty of prototypes of this upcoming model have been spotted recently, our shooter at the German Nürburgring racetrack has now caught the new BMW iX5 M.

The prototype features a significantly more aggressive design at the front, due to its larger and sportier-looking air intakes, whereas the grille and headlights are similar to those seen on the rest of the series and one of the design elements that will bring the model into the Neue Klasse era.

BMW iX5 M testing on track.

 

Compared to the front fascia, the back end of this tester looks quite mild. The taillights are provisional and so are the reflectors mounted on the bumper. Even if the camouflage suggests otherwise, there is no split-opening tailgate anymore, as the next-generation BMW X5 is losing this practical party trick. And there’s no reason to believe that this won’t apply to the battery-electric model and the hydrogen-powered version(s), too.

Besides the more aggressive face, this tester also featured a set of five-spoke alloys that seem to be on the lighter side of things. Shod in sticky Michelin Pilot Sport rubber for extra grip during fast cornering, the wheels are backed up by the uprated brakes, which comprise the large calipers at the front hugging the cross-drilled discs every time the driver steps on the left pedal. This is another good indicator that this is indeed the BMW iX5 M and not a regular variant of the electric premium midsize crossover.

BMW iX5 M testing on track.

 

There’s no information at this point on how powerful the new BMW iX5 M is, but the lesser iX5 60 is expected to feature a bi-motor setup, making 569 horsepower and a huge 147.8 kWh battery pack. The iX7 M70 is understood to boast well over 800 horsepower, and this raises the question of just how punchy the iX5 M will be. It will be answered in due course. Besides the EV power, the next-gen BMW X5 will also feature hydrogen power, gasoline and diesel units and at least one plug-in hybrid.

 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Thu, 09/03/2026 - 00:59

By SEMA News Editors

Elsinore Ring circuit rendering courtesy of Elsinore Ring

 

A new private motorsports destination planned for Southern California is expected to combine a purpose-built road course with 40 exclusive garage residences and a range of automotive-focused amenities.

According to the Elsinore Ring website, the planned facility is being developed as a private motorsports country club centered around a 3.2-mile road course with 22 turns, three configurations and an expected FIA Grade 2 standard. The track is being designed for drivers of varying experience levels, with technical corners, sweeping sections, fast straights and passing opportunities.

Boris Said, the project's founder and visionary, recently spoke with AutoWeek about the project, saying the track is to be called "Elsinorering," a nod to the famed Nürburgring. The project's website currently uses the name Elsinore Ring.

In the AutoWeek story, Said described the planned location as along the shores of Lake Elsinore, California, approximately 15 minutes up Interstate 15 from BMW of Murrieta, where he is a co-owner. He also said the facility is planned near Lake Elsinore Raceway motocross track and Skydive Elsinore, with drag boats and waterskiers operating on the lake.

A major component of the development is the Garage Villas. According to elsinorering.com, each building is expected to contain 40 private residences with direct views of the circuit. Each residence is planned with approximately 1,300 sq. ft. of climate-controlled garage space capable of accommodating six to eight vehicles, with integrated lifts for additional capacity.

Above the garage, each planned residence would include a bedroom, private office, gourmet kitchen, luxury bath, 132-inch cinema display and a 26-ft.-wide balcony overlooking the circuit.

A race shop is also planned, with services expected to include vehicle maintenance, tire mounting and changes, track preparation, race setup, diagnostics, fabrication and mechanical repairs.

The planned clubhouse is expected to include a 125-seat restaurant, bar and event center capable of accommodating up to 500 guests, along with wellness facilities and a rooftop pool.

The project also appears to have local support. AutoWeek reported that Gina Gonzalez, director of economic development legislative affairs for the City of Lake Elsinore, said the city is proud of being the action sports capital of the world.

Seppo Mäntylä is listed on the Elsinore Ring website as architect, while Joseph DeJesus is identified as partner and master developer. The website states that the project remains in development and that deposits are not yet being accepted.

For more information, visit elsinorering.com.

 

Image courtesy of Elsinore Ring

 

Wed, 09/02/2026 - 07:49

By SEMA News Editors

Cosmo Tires Expands With Kinney's Automotive Destination Store

Kinney's Automotive Cosmo Tires destination store.

 

Cosmo Tires has expanded its presence in the Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, market through a branding partnership with Kinney’s Automotive that transforms the Hurst, Texas, location into a 20,000-sq.-ft. Cosmo Tires destination store.

The newly branded facility features updated merchandising and retail elements designed to create a distinct Cosmo Tires experience, the company said. The partnership is part of the company’s Retail Partnership Program, which currently includes more than 20 locations across the United States as well as select international locations.

The companies marked the transformation with a Cosmo Tires Ambush Nites event featuring show cars, music, live graffiti painting, promotions, giveaways and product displays. Cosmo Tires and Kinney’s Automotive plan to host additional Ambush events at the Hurst location, which will also become the site of an annual Cosmo Tires Kool Kat Ambush event. The property’s outdoor space can accommodate more than 500 show cars along with live entertainment, food, vendors and product displays.

"Kinney's Automotive represents exactly the kind of dealer partner we want to grow with," said Mark Lindsey, chief strategy officer of Cosmo Tires. "This isn't simply about putting our name on a building. Together, we're creating a destination where we can sell tires, build the Cosmo Tires brand, engage consumers and bring the automotive community together. Ambush Nites was the first of many collaborations planned, bringing the community together with strong support from local business owners. These partnerships help us elevate the experience we provide and deepen our connection to the community."

For more information, visit cosmotires.com.

 

Dunlop Tires Appoints Matt Futrelle as Associate VP, TBR

Dunlop Tires Matt Futrelle

 

Dunlop Tires North America (DTNA) has appointed Matt Futrelle as associate vice president, TBR.

In this role, Futrelle will be responsible for leading the TBR business, overseeing strategic initiatives, driving business growth and supporting DTNA's commitment to delivering products and service to customers across North America.

Matt brings more than 20 years of experience in the automotive aftermarket industry, with a proven track record of leadership, operational excellence and business development, the company said. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the ability to build high-performing teams, strengthen customer relationships and execute strategies that deliver sustainable results.

"Matt's leadership experience, industry expertise, and commitment to excellence make him an outstanding addition to our leadership team," said Darren Thomas, CEO-President, DTNA. "We are confident that his vision and customer-focused approach will help accelerate our growth in the TBR business and strengthen our position in the marketplace."

"I couldn't be more excited to join the Dunlop Tires North America team. We see significant opportunities to increase our participation in the North American Commercial Truck Tire market, bringing even more value to our commercial tire dealer and fleet partners," stated Futrelle. "I am also happy to be a part of expanding the iconic Dunlop brand across North America. The brand holds a special place for me because I have such great memories growing up racing on Dunlop motocross tires."

For more information, visit dunloptires.com.

 

Tue, 09/01/2026 - 15:20

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Council and Network Awards.

 

SEMA members have until Friday, September 4, to submit nominations for the 2026 SEMA Council & Network Awards, recognizing the individuals and companies making a lasting impact across the automotive aftermarket. Submit a nomination at sema.org/cn-awards.

The Council & Network Awards honor individuals and companies that have made outstanding contributions to their market segments and professional communities during the past year. Deserving candidates include members whose leadership, innovation, dedication, and service are moving the automotive aftermarket forward.

Unlike broader industry awards, the Council & Network Awards recognize those leading progress within specialized market segments. Nominees may include businesses that demonstrate exceptional ethics and service, volunteers and mentors who positively influence others, or individuals making a significant impact within their business.

To be considered, candidates must be active members of the council or network presenting the award. Award recipients will be recognized during their respective council and network events at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas.

Nominations are open for:

  • 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
  • Professional Restylers Organization (PRO): Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement Award, 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

Don't miss the opportunity to recognize the members who have helped strengthen your market segment over the past year. If you know a council or network member who deserves recognition, submit your nomination by Friday, September 4 at sema.org/cn-awards.


The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, visit the Registration Resource Center, or visit the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, 2026, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.   

 

Tue, 09/01/2026 - 14:11

By Ashley Reyes

WTSBC Coffee and Conversation graphic.

 

There is still time to join the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) virtual Coffee & Conversation event focused on common industry misconceptions, taking place Thursday, September 3, at 9:00 a.m. PT on Zoom. Register for the WTSBC event here.

WTSBC Coffee and Conversations are virtual events where members gather to network and exchange insights on industry challenges. The upcoming session will tackle some of the most common myths surrounding wheels, tires, brakes and suspension, and the real-world impact these misconceptions can have on products, customer trust and the industry's reputation.

Designed as a collaborative, peer-driven discussion, the event will be led by John Rastetter, tire information ambassador at Tire Rack; Gary Ruede, technical supervisor at Discount Tire Company; and Todd Steen, executive director of business development at Jackson. 

What myths are out there? Bring your myths to the event! Attendees will be asked to participate in live polling to determine whether certain statements are true or false, helping spark conversation and reveal how pervasive these myths can be across the industry.

Register for the WTSBC event here.

 

Tue, 09/01/2026 - 12:54

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Classic cars outside California Capitol Building.

 

Leno's Law (Senate Bill 1392), an important touchpoint in the fight to preserve California's rich automotive heritage, has passed the California Legislature with a historic, bipartisan 49-4 vote. The bill, sponsored by noted car enthusiast and namesake Jay Leno and SEMA, now heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom for consideration. 

  • Leno's Law seeks to provide a narrow, phased-in, collector-only pathway to smog check exemptions for qualifying collector vehicles manufactured between 1976 and 1985. The exemption would be phased in over several years and would apply only to vehicles that meet specific collector-use requirements. 

Leno's Law is authored by Sen. Dave Cortese, with Sen. Shannon Grove as a principal coauthor. Its passage through both chambers of the California Legislature represents the most significant progress in more than 20 years to deliver collector-vehicle smog check reform on behalf of California's car enthusiasts, automotive restorers and anyone for whom a vehicle has represented a cultural or family touchstone. Importantly, support for Leno's Law has transcended party lines, uniting Democrats and Republicans, lowrider groups and car clubs, collectors, preservationists, automotive businesses and enthusiasts.  

"This bipartisan victory is a product of California's automotive community uniting to remind the state's lawmakers of the cultural significance of our cars and trucks, and of our sacred charge to pass this shared heritage on to the next generation," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "We are grateful for Senators Cortese and Grove for their stewardship of this bill, and to Jay Leno for lending his name and passion on behalf of every car enthusiast and small business with a personal stake in preserving our automotive heritage. SEMA and California's automotive community have one more request, and we respectfully ask Governor Newsom to finish the job and sign Leno's Law." 

"California can protect clean air without erasing our automotive history. A classic car that spends most of its life in a garage and comes out for a parade, car show or charity event is not the same as a daily commuter, and our laws should recognize that," said Sen. Dave Cortese. "SB 1392 brings common sense back to the smog-check system, protects a treasured part of California culture and gives classic car owners a fair shot at preserving these pieces of history. We've cleared the Legislature. Now it's time to put 'Leno's Law' on the Governor's desk and get it signed."  

"For generations of California families, classic cars have brought grandfathers, fathers, sons and daughters together, from the shade-tree mechanic working side by side with their grandchild, to the enthusiast who gets behind the wheel and is instantly taken back to their glory days," said Sen. Shannon Grove. "After years of working to find a solution that protects California's classic car culture while addressing the state's requirements, Leno's Law gets us there. It is a focused, common-sense bill that keeps true collector vehicles in California, supports the small businesses that restore and celebrate them and removes a burdensome requirement so enthusiasts can get back to what they do best, restoring and enjoying these pieces of California history. I am proud to stand with Sen. Cortese, Jay Leno, SEMA and collectors across the state as we take this effort to the finish line." 

Background 

Leno's Law establishes a narrow, phased-in, collector-only pathway to a smog-check exemption for certain older vehicles. Under the bill, beginning January 1, 2028, qualifying collector vehicles (those manufactured before model-year '81) would be exempt from smog-check requirements. This exemption would annually expand by one model year until 2033, when it would apply to vehicles manufactured before model-year '86. To qualify, vehicles must meet the bill's collector-use requirements, and owners must either carry collector-car insurance or be able to verify the vehicle is driven fewer than 1,000 miles per year. The bill does not change California's existing exemption for pre-'76 vehicles. 

The effort to secure passage of this bill won support from all corners of California's automotive culture and reached enthusiasts and preservationists from other countries. California's lowrider community sent more than 1,700 letters in support of the legislation, while the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile's (FIA) International Historical Commission backed the bill, highlighting its balanced approach to automotive preservation and California's environmental objectives. 

California remains a globally recognized cultural epicenter for America's automotive heritage, immediately identifiable through decades of images of classic cars and trucks traversing on California's roads and highways, from the desert to the coast and the urban landscapes in between. Appropriately, the state is home to more than 1,500 SEMA member businesses, and the state's automotive aftermarket industry supports nearly 150,000 jobs, annually generates more than $40 billion in economic impact and delivers $13 billion in wages and benefits while contributing $6 billion in taxes.  

Tue, 09/01/2026 - 12:28

By SEMA News Editors

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is bringing powersports closer to the heart of the automotive aftermarket with the launch of a dedicated Powersports/Side-by-Side (SxS)/Lifestyle section in the West Hall. View it on the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan here.

Set for November 3-6 in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show will bring motorcycles, dirt bikes, side-by-sides and adventure lifestyle products together with trucks and off-road products, creating a central destination for businesses and enthusiasts whose interests cross vehicle segments.

The new section is designed around the way today's enthusiasts actually use their vehicles, with powersports products and related lifestyle gear positioned alongside complementary automotive aftermarket categories. The West Hall location offers unique access to adjacent parking lots for dynamic outdoor activations and vehicle demonstrations.

 

See the Latest Powersports Products and Builds at the 2026 SEMA Show

The expanded powersports presence gives attendees an opportunity to discover new products, meet manufacturers and suppliers, and connect with businesses serving the growing powersports and recreational vehicle market.

The 2026 SEMA Show will feature:

  • Motorcycles and dirt bikes.
  • Side-by-Sides.
  • Trailers and tow vehicles.
  • Related adventure lifestyle gear and accessories.

The powersports presence also extends to the SEMA Battle of the Builders, which is adding motorcycles to the competition for 2026. The new SEMA BOTB: Bike Builder Shootout will recognize the Top 3 standout bike builders and an overall motorcycle champion.

Beyond the Show floor, attendees can take advantage of SEMA Education sessions covering emerging trends, technical advancements, workforce development and business growth strategies.

Learn more about the new powersports section at the 2026 SEMA Show.

 

Register for the SEMA Show Now and Save

Registration is currently $75, but the price increases to $100 on September 27. Register now to secure a badge and start planning a four-day visit to the industry's premier aftermarket event.

Early registration also gives attendees access to the Registration Resource Center, where they can manage their Show plans, book hotels, register a spouse and purchase tickets to select SEMA Show events and experiences.

Register for the 2026 SEMA Show.

 

Plan Your Las Vegas Trip

Once registered, attendees can begin building their SEMA Show itinerary, including hotel and transportation plans. SEMA's official housing partner, onPeak, offers hotel accommodations through the official SEMA Show block, while exclusive airline discounts are available to attendees traveling to Las Vegas.

The Las Vegas Monorail and Las Vegas Loop also provide transportation options for getting to and around the Las Vegas Convention Center during Show week.

Get all the travel details and discounts for the 2026 SEMA Show here.
 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, visit the Registration Resource Center, or visit the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.   

 

This article was originally published on September 1, 2026.

 

Tue, 09/01/2026 - 12:28

By SEMA News Editors

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is bringing powersports closer to the heart of the automotive aftermarket with the launch of a dedicated Powersports/Side-by-Side (SxS)/Lifestyle section in the West Hall. View it on the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan here.

Set for November 3-6 in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show will bring motorcycles, dirt bikes, side-by-sides and adventure lifestyle products together with trucks and off-road products, creating a central destination for businesses and enthusiasts whose interests cross vehicle segments.

The new section is designed around the way today's enthusiasts actually use their vehicles, with powersports products and related lifestyle gear positioned alongside complementary automotive aftermarket categories. The West Hall location offers unique access to adjacent parking lots for dynamic outdoor activations and vehicle demonstrations.

 

See the Latest Powersports Products and Builds at the 2026 SEMA Show

The expanded powersports presence gives attendees an opportunity to discover new products, meet manufacturers and suppliers, and connect with businesses serving the growing powersports and recreational vehicle market.

The 2026 SEMA Show will feature:

  • Motorcycles and dirt bikes.
  • Side-by-Sides.
  • Trailers and tow vehicles.
  • Related adventure lifestyle gear and accessories.

The powersports presence also extends to the SEMA Battle of the Builders, which is adding motorcycles to the competition for 2026. The new SEMA BOTB: Bike Builder Shootout will recognize the Top 3 standout bike builders and an overall motorcycle champion.

Beyond the Show floor, attendees can take advantage of SEMA Education sessions covering emerging trends, technical advancements, workforce development and business growth strategies.

Learn more about the new powersports section at the 2026 SEMA Show.

 

Register for the SEMA Show Now and Save

Registration is currently $75, but the price increases to $100 on September 27. Register now to secure a badge and start planning a four-day visit to the industry's premier aftermarket event.

Early registration also gives attendees access to the Registration Resource Center, where they can manage their Show plans, book hotels, register a spouse and purchase tickets to select SEMA Show events and experiences.

Register for the 2026 SEMA Show.

 

Plan Your Las Vegas Trip

Once registered, attendees can begin building their SEMA Show itinerary, including hotel and transportation plans. SEMA's official housing partner, onPeak, offers hotel accommodations through the official SEMA Show block, while exclusive airline discounts are available to attendees traveling to Las Vegas.

The Las Vegas Monorail and Las Vegas Loop also provide transportation options for getting to and around the Las Vegas Convention Center during Show week.

Get all the travel details and discounts for the 2026 SEMA Show here.
 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, visit the Registration Resource Center, or visit the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.   

 

This article was originally published on September 1, 2026.

 

Tue, 09/01/2026 - 11:45

By Ashley Reyes

Lori Spaulding SBN Spotlight graphic.

 

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Lori Spaulding, chief operations officer at Dream Giveaway, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.

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

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?

LS: I've been with Dream Giveaway for 14 years. It's a wonderful, feel-good place to work. We have given away cars to raise money for charities for 17 years now. We are a small but dedicated team.

SN: What does your job entail?

Lori Spaulding: Definitely, hard work. You can't be afraid to put the time in and step up. Dedication goes along with that, along with being comfortable in any setting with any person. I work with a lot of celebrities in our industry.

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?

LS: Being taken seriously. The owners of the company for the first eight years I was here respected my knowledge to a degree, but never as 'one of the boys' in upper management. It took new ownership to come in and realize that I was a key player in this company. As for being out at car events and races, people look for a 'guy' who can explain the car to them, and that 'guy' is me.

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?

LS: That's a tough one. I learn every day from everyone around me. I think it's important to watch and take in others' knowledge and decide if it's something I need to think about myself. I've made a lot of amazing friends in this industry who have opened doors for me. I'd never tell them they're role models, though. I'd never hear the end of it. LOL. 

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?

LS: Not really. I have always loved cars but never thought about working around them. What keeps me here? My job and changing people's lives. Even if I wasn't here anymore, now that I'm in it, I can't imagine being out of it. The people I've met have been pretty cool, and some are pretty amazing.

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?

LS: My son and I. I do it for me and for him. Providing everything I can for him is my motivation for everything. Before him...me.

SN: What is the most challenging part of running your business or job?

LS: Wearing so many hats. I'm responsible for so much of what makes our business run daily. Except IT--that's not my thing. My CEO, thankfully, is that guy. Part of what I do is being the face of the company to the industry, so there's a lot of travel involved as well as time away from my family.

SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?

LS: This is my first job in the automotive industry, and I love it. I've always loved cars. So, 14 years now. I fell into this looking for an account management job, and they saw my degrees and decided I would manage the design and marketing teams, and then it grew from there.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media,SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website. 

Tue, 09/01/2026 - 08:05

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show feature vehicles.

 

Exhibitors at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, are offering products, parts and services for builders preparing vehicles that will be displayed at this year's SEMA Show.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, found at semashow.com/products-for-project-vehicle-builders, connects qualified builders with confirmed 2026 SEMA Show exhibitors interested in supplying products for project vehicles.

Builders seeking products should contact exhibitors directly using the contact information provided.

The list is open exclusively to 2026 SEMA Show exhibitors. To be included, exhibitors must complete the form located in the Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships section of the Exhibitor Service Manual at semashow.com/esm

Qualified builders are encouraged to check semashow.com/products-for-project-vehicle-builders regularly, as new submissions are added on an ongoing basis.

All product placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder. Every project vehicle displayed at the SEMA Show must be supported by a current 2026 SEMA Show exhibitor.

Note: Listings are published on a first-come, first-served basis. Exhibitors must use the official Project-Vehicle Builders form to participate; email submissions will not be accepted. Inclusion in the list does not guarantee product placement or vehicle placement at the 2026 SEMA Show. Exhibitors are responsible for verifying that a builder is affiliated with a vehicle that will be displayed at the Show. For more information, contact projectvehicles@sema.org.

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, visit the Registration Resource Center, or visit the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.