By SEMA News Editors

 

The SEMA Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) will celebrate the 30th anniversary of its Media Trade Conference on February 2-4, 2027, in Orlando, Flaorida. Manufacturer registration is open now to MPMC, Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) business members, who can lock in discounted pricing through September 8 at mediatradeconference.com. 

 

For 30 years, the MPMC Media Trade Conference has been a powerful venue for motorsports parts manufacturers to build high-quality relationships with the media. Known for its “speed-dating” format, the event enables manufacturers to engage in more than 40 half-hour meetings with journalists, podcasters and content creators throughout the three days, with the goal of establishing valuable partnerships and getting their company news and products in front of the right audience.

 

"The Media Trade Conference is a high-performance engine for visibility and connection in the motorsports aftermarket," said MPMC Chair Brian Bohlander. "In just three days, companies have the opportunity to engage directly with the voices that shape the industry, turning conversations into coverage and relationships into long-term momentum."

 

Unlike other events that focus on buyers and sellers, the Media Trade Conference focuses on helping manufacturers find valuable media partnerships without the distractions of a busy trade show floor. It’s where brands drive their narrative, share product demonstrations and discover new communication channels they may not have considered previously.

 

"Your network is your net worth, and the Media Trade Conference is a great way to meet different people that can help you grow your business," added Bohlander. "That's why this program has been successful for the past 30 years; it puts people in a room together to talk about what they do best and are passionate about––and magic happens."    

 

The Media Trade Conference will also feature daily networking opportunities to help attendees maximize making connections outside of meetings. Additionally, all attendees are invited to an evening reception featuring an awards ceremony recognizing the 2027 MPMC Robert E. Petersen Media Award winner.

 

MPMC, TORA and PRI business members can save money by registering before the September 8 early-bird pricing deadline. Media registration will open in October.

 

To learn more and to register, visit mediatradeconference.com. 

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

The deadline for automotive restylers to apply for the 2026 PRO Cup Challenge, hosted by the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), is Friday, July 24.

 

Culminating at the 2026 SEMA Show (November 3-6), the PRO Cup Challenge will give six automotive restylers the opportunity to showcase their builds at the PRO booth #50237 in the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall. The challenge: design and execute an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that can be installed in fewer than 50 hours and with a total cost not to exceed $14,500.

 

By placing real-world constraints on time and budget, the competition highlights the value of developing repeatable, scalable packages rather than one-off show vehicles. 

 

The Business Opportunity of a Lifetime

 

At the Show, a panel of industry expert judges will select the PRO Cup Challenge winner based on vehicle marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity and profitability. Showgoers can also vote for their favorite build, recognizing it with the People's Choice Award. The competition will culminate on Wednesday, where the winner of both awards will be announced at the PRO Booth Happy Hour.

 

Beyond the recognition earned on the SEMA Show floor, the PRO Cup Challenge serves as a launch pad for business growth and professional connections. Participants gain visibility across SEMA channels, connect with fellow restylers to learn and share best practices and collaborate with accessory manufacturers and dealers on market-ready builds that drive sales and profits.  

 

Turn Your Creativity into Business Growth––Apply Today

 

The PRO Cup Challenge is open to current PRO members, as well as SEMA member companies in automotive restyling that are eligible to join PRO. For more information or to apply for the competition, visit here. The deadline to enter is July 24. 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Formula E Team Principal Cyril Blais has passed away at the age of 43. No cause of death was disclosed.

 

Blais was most recently the team principal for the Citroën Racing Formula E Team. He also spent time as a team principal, deputy team principal, chief engineer and race engineer with Maserati MSG Racing Formula E. Prior to that, Blais served as the race engineer for Mahindra Racing Formula E, and before that, he held roles within the Formula 2 and Formula 3 series.

 

The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) released the following announcement on Sunday, July 19:

 

Monaco Sports Group (MSG), operator of the Citroën Racing Formula E Team, Citroën, Stellantis Motorsports, the FIA and the entire Formula E community are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Team Principal Cyril Blais.

 

Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Cyril's family, friends, loved ones and everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

 

"We are all so saddened to lose Cyril. Many of the team have known and worked with him for several years. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues throughout the paddock. Cyril believed so much in this team and we will respect his family's wishes to honour him in the best way we can, by continuing to race in his memory with the exact dedication and passion he instilled in all of us," said Beth Paretta, managing director of the Citroën Racing Formula E Team.

 

"We are heartbroken by the loss of our colleague and friend, Cyril, and our heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with his family, loved ones and all those who knew him. Cyril's passing is a devastating loss for his family, for MSG, Citroën Racing and for our entire Formula E community. We have lost an extraordinary colleague, and someone many of us were proud to call a friend. The entire Formula E paddock is supporting one another through this incredibly difficult period. To honor his immense contribution to the sport, the Citroën Racing Formula E Team and the wider Formula E community will pay tribute to Cyril’s memory and incredible legacy during this weekend’s Tokyo E-Prix," said Jeff Dodds, the CEO of Formula E.

 

"It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Cyril Blais, Team Principal of MSG, Citroën Racing’s partner in Formula E. This loss is particularly painful for us, as Cyril played a major role in our Formula E program from the very beginning of our collaboration between MSG and Citroën Racing. During this difficult time, our thoughts are with his family, loved ones and all the colleagues at MSG, Stellantis Motorsport and Citroën who had the privilege of working alongside him," said a joint statement from Xavier Chardon, the CEO of Citroën and Olivier Jansonnie the senior vice president of Stellantis Motorsport.

 

"The entire motorsport community is deeply saddened by this tragic news, and Cyril will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate to know and work with him. He was dedicated to our sport, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues, competitors and friends across the paddock. His passion, determination and belief in his team were evident in all he did. Beyond his achievements on track, Cyril will be remembered for the integrity he brought to our sport. He made a lasting impression on everyone who worked alongside him, and his absence will be felt deeply. On behalf of myself and the FIA, I extend heartfelt condolences to Cyril’s family, friends and colleagues. Our thoughts are with them during this incredibly difficult time," said Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the president of the FIA.

 

No further comments will be shared out of respect for the family's privacy and wishes.

 

Image courtesy of Formula E and the FIA

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

SEMA Show organizers know travel costs can add up, which is why they've partnered with Las Vegas hotels across every price tier to offer the best nightly rates--plus exclusive perks and a simple, affordable booking process. Book now through onPeak, the SEMA Show's official housing partner, to maximize savings on your SEMA Show accommodations.

 

Even better: There's still availability, albeit limited, in different hotels* that come out to less than $175 per night, including mandatory hotel fees. These properties include:

• Luxor ($103 per night average)
• Circus Circus ($110 per night average)
• OYO ($160 per night average)
• Plaza ($166 per night average)
• Palace Station ($167 per night average)
• Rio Hotel & Casino ($172 per night average)
• Horseshoe Las Vegas (formerly Bally's) ($174 per night average)

 

Hotel reservations for the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas, can be made online at semashow.com/hotel.

 

 

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.

 

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.  

 

*Availability and room options are subject to change. Options available as of the publish date on July 8. For the most up-to-date offerings, visit semashow.com/hotel.

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

As electric vehicles (EVs) represent an increasing share of vehicles on the road, aftermarket and custom builders must understand safety at the system level. Missteps with high-voltage systems are not just warranty issues; they create serious shock, fire and regulatory risks.

 

During the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) virtual education session, "The ABCs of EV Safety," on Tuesday, August 25, at 12:00 p.m. PDT/3:00 p.m. EDT, a panel of experienced EV leaders will share a grounded, practical framework that improves both safety and credibility with customers. Register here.

 

 

This session will demystify the "ABCs of EV Safety," or critical systems and principles that keep EVs safe to drive, service and build. Attendees will gain a practical, standards-aligned understanding of high-voltage safety fundamentals with real-world guidance for conversations and decisions in aftermarket EV integration and custom builds.

 

Key learning objectives will focus on safety architecture, risk awareness and how professionals can apply solid engineering and safety practices without getting lost in technical proprietary details.

 

This session will:

• Explain core EV safety systems, including high-voltage (HV) interlock loops, isolation monitoring and discharge strategies.
• Recognize safe component practices, including how covered HV connections and properly rated parts prevent failure.
• Understand thermal and controller roles, including how temperature management and vehicle control logic maintain safety.
• Translate standards into shop practice, including connecting safety principles to real aftermarket builds without requiring OEM-level tools or bench references.

 

Leading the session are speakers Chuck Kinkade, engineering manager at Redline Detection; Mavrick Knoles, president and co-founder at Legacy EV LLC; and Tom Santilli, curriculum specialist at Legacy EV, all of whom bring extensive knowledge and experience in EV workforce development and automotive diagnostic technology and leadership.

 

Aftermarket professionals working with EVs, particularly shop owners and lead technicians, EV conversion specialists, high-performance builders and fabricators, and technical trainers and educators are encouraged to attend the session.

 

Register here.

 

Feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | UKRID

 

 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Acting Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling (right) with SEMA Grassroots Manager –– Government Affairs Coby Lobaugh.

 

SEMA is enthusiastically backing the nomination of Keith Sonderling as Secretary of Labor, submitting a letter of support to the leadership of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions that urges his swift confirmation.  

 

Sonderling, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)'s current acting secretary, has exhibited the strong leadership qualities as a public servant overseeing one of the federal government's most important agencies, with a keen understanding of labor and employment policy. 

 

The mission of the DOL is to foster, promote and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers and retirees of the United States, as well as improve working conditions, advance opportunities for profitable employment and assure work-related benefits and rights.

 

"It is vital that the individual who leads DOL be someone who will champion career pathways that support a diverse array of industries, engage with the private sector to train our nation's evolving workforce, and can connect the dots between the activities that enhance Americans' lives and the robust, job-creating industries that support them. Keith Sonderling is that individual," the letter says. 

 

Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA senior vice president for public and government affairs, expanded on the letter's sentiments: "D.C. functions best when our cabinet-level leaders walk the walk, and our experience is that Keith Sonderling gets it; he's shown serious acumen for understanding how to build up industries where innovation is a direct pathway to sustainable job growth and American prosperity." 

 

SEMA connected in person with Acting Secretary Sonderling last week, and we were excited by his passion for the automotive community and knowledge of motorsports and racing. Watch the interview below:

The automotive aftermarket industry that SEMA represents employs more than 1.3 million Americans and pays wages and benefits in excess of $104 billion; the motorsports industry represents a career path for more than 300,000. These economically significant sectors of the economy employ more Americans than the U.S. airline industry.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Acting Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling (right) with SEMA Grassroots Manager –– Government Affairs Coby Lobaugh.

 

SEMA is enthusiastically backing the nomination of Keith Sonderling as Secretary of Labor, submitting a letter of support to the leadership of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions that urges his swift confirmation.  

 

Sonderling, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)'s current acting secretary, has exhibited the strong leadership qualities as a public servant overseeing one of the federal government's most important agencies, with a keen understanding of labor and employment policy. 

 

The mission of the DOL is to foster, promote and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers and retirees of the United States, as well as improve working conditions, advance opportunities for profitable employment and assure work-related benefits and rights.

 

"It is vital that the individual who leads DOL be someone who will champion career pathways that support a diverse array of industries, engage with the private sector to train our nation's evolving workforce, and can connect the dots between the activities that enhance Americans' lives and the robust, job-creating industries that support them. Keith Sonderling is that individual," the letter says. 

 

Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA senior vice president for public and government affairs, expanded on the letter's sentiments: "D.C. functions best when our cabinet-level leaders walk the walk, and our experience is that Keith Sonderling gets it; he's shown serious acumen for understanding how to build up industries where innovation is a direct pathway to sustainable job growth and American prosperity." 

 

SEMA connected in person with Acting Secretary Sonderling last week, and we were excited by his passion for the automotive community and knowledge of motorsports and racing. Watch the interview below:

The automotive aftermarket industry that SEMA represents employs more than 1.3 million Americans and pays wages and benefits in excess of $104 billion; the motorsports industry represents a career path for more than 300,000. These economically significant sectors of the economy employ more Americans than the U.S. airline industry.

By SEMA News Editors

 

Exhibiting at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, is a significant investment, and the most successful exhibitors don't leave that investment to chance. (Still need a booth? Start here.) 

 

Whether you're a first-time exhibitor or a longtime Show veteran, having a clear plan before arriving can help maximize ROI, attract more buyers and media, and ensure your team is prepared to make the most of every opportunity. 

 

From booth strategy and staffing plans to deadlines and product promotions, exhibitors have access to a variety of tools designed to help them succeed. The most important resource? The Exhibitor Service Manual (ESM), available at semashow.com/esm. 

 

Start With the Exhibitor Service Manual

 

In addition to working with their SEMA sales representative, the SEMA Public Relations team and the SEMA Show team, exhibitors should rely on the ESM as a primary planning resource. It organizes everything exhibitors need in one location, from ordering services and budgeting expenses to meeting deadlines and promoting products. 

 

Available online at semashow.com/esm, the ESM provides access to critical information, including booth services, shipping instructions, marketing opportunities, contact information, regulations, sponsorship opportunities and more. 

 

For exhibitors developing their 2026 Show plan, these sections deserve immediate attention: 

 

Deadlines Checklist 

Found under "About the Show," the SEMA Show deadline checklist provides key dates for exhibitors, including deadlines and rate increases. 

 

Feature Vehicles (outside the booth) 

Found under "Vehicle/Car Display Opportunities," exhibitors can learn more about the requirements and guidelines for displaying a vehicle on the SEMA Show floor outside of their booth. One important reminder: The deadline to submit Feature Vehicle applications is Friday, July 31.  

 

Approved applicants who submit by July 31 will receive an approval and confirmation email on August 28. Applications submitted after the July deadline are subject to approval at the end of September, or as space allows. Additional details are available in the "Vehicle/Car Display Opportunities" section of semashow.com/esm. 

 

New Product Showcase 

Found under "Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships," exhibitors can submit products to the New Products Showcase––the top destination for buyers and media at the SEMA Show––to build brand awareness and generate leads.  

 

Best of all, the first product entry is free for exhibitors. 

 

Find more information on submitting a product, packaging or merchandising displays and complete an application for a new or featured product. 

 

Budgeting, Shipping and Show Services 

The ESM also includes tools and information covering: 

• Budget planning and expense forecasting. 
• Freeman booth services and ordering. 
• Approved vendor resources. 
• Shipping and material handling requirements. 
• Marketing and sponsorship opportunities. 
• Safety regulations and Show policies. 
• Parking and logistics information. 

 

Reviewing these sections early can help exhibitors avoid last-minute expenses and operational surprises. 

 

Expert Advice: Keep Your Booth Strategy Simple 

 

While logistics and deadlines are important, exhibitors should also evaluate how effectively their booth supports business goals. 

 

SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso encourages exhibitors to focus on simplicity and purpose rather than adding unnecessary complexity. 

 

Before arriving in Las Vegas, make sure your team can answer three questions: 

• What story are we telling? 
• Who should be talking to whom? 
• Where should conversations happen within the booth? 

 

Gattuso also recommends focusing on proven tactics that drive results: 

• Put products directly into attendees' hands. 
• Develop a quick, memorable pitch. 
• Position staff throughout the booth, not behind tables. 
• Schedule meetings before the Show. 
• Use clear, buyer-focused messaging. 
• Keep staff engaged and available. 

 

Additional Opportunities During SEMA Week 

 

Exhibitors looking for additional exposure should also explore Jampack Event Promotions, a new opportunity available for the 2026 SEMA Show. 

 

Options include dining and networking experiences, after-hours events, group outings, travel packages and SEMA Fest-related opportunities that can help exhibitors connect with attendees and customers beyond the show floor. 

 

Additional information is available at semafest.com/jampack. 

 

The most successful exhibitors begin planning well before Show week. By taking advantage of the resources available through the ESM and building a clear booth strategy, exhibitors can put themselves in a position to maximize every opportunity the 2026 SEMA Show has to offer. 

 

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.  

 

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.   

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Nilu27 Completes First Test of V12 Engine

 

Nilu27, the Los Angeles, California-based hypercar manufacturer, recently celebrated the successful first test of the bespoke, 1,070hp 6.5L V12 engine for its upcoming NILU Hypercar built by New Zealand's Hartley Engines.

 

Nilu27 founders Sasha and Inna Selipanov recently traveled to New Zealand to observe the first test of the new V12 engine built for the debut of the NILU hypercar.

 

The test took place on Wednesday, June 17, marking the first run for the power unit. Developed in close collaboration with specialized high-performance engine developers Hartley Engines, the power unit features a unique "Hot V" configuration––with the exhaust headers placed between the cylinder heads to optimize both performance and packaging. And while the engine was originally projected to produce 1,070 hp, initial dyno testing has already exceeded those projections while reaching a 11,000-rpm redline, according to the company.

 

"This is the moment theory became reality," said Sasha Selipanov. "By firing up this stunning V12, we didn't only prove our engineering capabilities; we delivered the soul of the NILU. As most of the automotive world embraces digital and electric sterility, we've doubled down on the raw, visceral drama of high RPM, naturally aspirated internal combustion. The Nilu27/Hartley V12 will make our hypercar truly timeless. And we hope the video from our first dyno test will generate the same excitement among viewers as it did when we were present," he concluded.

 

"To see this bespoke V12 come to life after months of intense development is an indescribable feeling," said Nelson Hartley, Hartley Engines. "This isn't just an engine; it's a piece of art that pushes the boundaries of what a naturally aspirated power unit can do. We knew we had something special on paper, but seeing it outperform expectations on the dyno right out of the gate is phenomenal."

 

For more information, visit nilu27.com.

 

 

RealTruck Announces 'RealTruck x Makita' Sweepstakes

 

Makita and RealTruck have teamed up for the "Ultimate Work Truck Upgrade" sweepstakes. One lucky grand prize winner will receive a full setup featuring the Makita MAKTRAK™ modular storage system, a RealTruck MX4 EZ-Lift bed cover, AMP Research bed steps, swing cases and more, according to RealTruck.

 

For the complete details, visit makitatools.com/events/sweepstakes/realtruck or visit the RealTruck Instagram post.

 

 

Gold Eagle Company Names Former MEMA CEO Bill Long to Advisory Board

 

Gold Eagle Company, a manufacturer of automotive appearance, performance and maintenance products, has appointed Bill Long, former president and CEO of MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, to its Advisory Board. Long brings more than four decades of executive leadership, strategic insight and industry advocacy experience to Gold Eagle.

 

Long has held senior leadership positions across the automotive and commercial vehicle sectors while serving as a recognized voice for the industry throughout North America. During his tenure at MEMA, he helped advance the interests of vehicle suppliers and promote innovation, collaboration and growth across the industry.

 

Long has served numerous industry organizations and boards, including the Automotive Hall of Fame Board of Directors, the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation, the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF), and the Northwood University Automotive Aftermarket Advisory Board. His contributions have been recognized with several of the industry's most prestigious honors, including Northwood University's Outstanding Business Leader Award, the MEMA Triangle Award, the Automotive Aftermarket Management Education Award, and the Jack Arute Sr. Excellence in Motorsports Award.

 

"Bill is one of the most influential and highly regarded leaders our industry has produced," said Marc Blackman, chairman and CEO of Gold Eagle. "His deep understanding of the automotive aftermarket, extensive industry relationships and proven leadership experience will provide tremendous value as we continue to strengthen our brands, expand our portfolio, accelerate profitable growth and position Gold Eagle for long-term success. Bill has spent his career helping organizations navigate change, identify opportunities and create lasting value. We are honored to welcome him to the Gold Eagle Advisory Board."

 

The Gold Eagle Company Advisory Board provides independent counsel and strategic guidance to the company's leadership team on matters involving growth, profitability, leadership development, market trends, organizational effectiveness and long-term value creation. Long joins a group of advisors with expertise spanning automotive aftermarket, consumer products, manufacturing, retail and corporate leadership.

 

"For years I have admired Gold Eagle's commitment to innovation, quality, and customer focus," said Long. "The company has built an exceptional portfolio of brands and a strong reputation throughout the automotive aftermarket. I am honored to join the advisory board and look forward to supporting Marc and the leadership team as they continue to build on that legacy and pursue new opportunities for growth."

 

For more information about Gold Eagle Company, visit goldeagle.com.

By SEMA News Editors

 

Nominations are open for the 2026 SEMA Visionary 8 program, which honors future leaders of the automotive aftermarket industry. Honorees will be recognized at the 2026 SEMA Show, taking place November 3-6, in Las Vegas.

 

The SEMA Visionary 8 program highlights eight rising stars age 35 and under who are poised to change and/or advance the automotive specialty-equipment industry. The award showcases emerging talent, celebrates their accomplishments and introduces them to the global aftermarket industry. 

 

Nominees may include emerging talents at established companies, entrepreneurs building new brands or innovators developing products that benefit the industry. No matter their role, each honoree demonstrates a clear impact through fresh ideas, enthusiasm and drive to succeed. 

 

Criteria That Define a 'SEMA Visionary 8':

 

• Be age 35 or under.
• Demonstrate the vision, talent, innovation, integrity, success and leadership needed to become a future driver of the industry. 
• Have made significant achievements in their company that drive progress for future generations.

 

To be considered, the nominee's contributions must fall within the date range of July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.

 

Know a rising leader--or are you one? Submit a nomination by Monday, August 17, at www.sema.org/awards.

 

SEMA is also accepting nominations for other industry awards, including Channel Partner of the Year, Content Creator of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year and Person of the Year.

 

2026 SEMA Show to Celebrate the Industry's Best

 

SEMA Show festivities shift into gear on Tuesday, November 3, with the Kickoff Breakfast, where 15 products will be recognized with New Product Awards alongside top honors for Channel Partner of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year.

 

On Thursday, November 5, the highly anticipated Visionary 8 and SEMA's Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year winner will be announced live in SEMA Central. The momentum will continue during SEMA Industry Honors at the iconic Fontainebleau. This red-carpet-style celebration brings together the industry's biggest names to spotlight standout achievements, including Content Creator of the Year and Person of the Year. 

 

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