By SEMA News Editors

RealTruck, the Michigan-based truck accessories manufacturer, has launched a new 3D builder visualization tool for customers.

The RealTruck Builder experience combines 3D visualization, AI-powered recommendations and intelligent search to let customers virtually configure accessories on their own vehicles before buying. The platform aims to give consumers confidence that they're choosing the right products for their exact vehicle.

Built on the Google Cloud platform, RealTruck Builder helps shoppers instantly configure and visualize RealTruck’s entire stack of accessories––such as a specific truck bed cover, bed rack, and ski rack combined––in virtual 3D or true-to-scale augmented reality right in their own garages.

RealTruck and Google created a case study on the visualization and customization tool, identifying how the company leveraged AI-powered technology to create the platform.

Read the full case study here.

By Karen Salvaggio

The 2025 SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award was presented to Kyle Kuhnhausen from Kuhnhausen Metal Concepts at the 2025 SEMA Show for his meticulously reimagined '66 Chevrolet Corvette. Nicknamed Serious 66, the Corvette was selected for exemplifying innovation, integration and engineering-first thinking.

Designed to spotlight the critical role engineers play in shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket, the SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle Award honors a SEMA Show feature vehicle that goes far beyond visual impact. Entries for the 2026 award are open now. Submit your entry here.

The winning Corvette stands as a masterclass in resourceful, systems-driven engineering. Rather than relying on a single standout feature, the vehicle reflects a holistic approach where hundreds of engineered components work seamlessly together. Advanced processes such as 3D scanning, reverse engineering, CAD, fluid dynamics analysis, laser cutting, vacuum-formed composites, additive manufacturing and CNC billet machining were strategically combined to achieve efficiency, precision and cost control without compromising quality.

Material science played a key role as well. Titanium was used to reduce intake temperatures thanks to its low thermal conductivity, while chromoly steel provided increased stiffness with reduced weight, preserving torsional rigidity throughout the chassis. Much of the vehicle's most impressive engineering is intentionally hidden, including integrated fuel and oil lines, aerospace-grade plumbing, concealed electrical service panels and a highly sophisticated cooling system packaged throughout the vehicle's body structure.

Among the most notable breakthroughs is the drivetrain: a dry-sump, direct-injected LT4 paired with a ZF 8HP70 transmission, one of the first street-proven executions of this combination, complete with electronically actuated manual control. Careful packaging and simulation also enabled race-inspired weight distribution, delivering exceptional balance, grip and drivability.

This Corvette is not defined by a single innovation, but by the way every system works together--quietly, efficiently and intentionally. That cohesion is the hallmark of truly exceptional engineering, and a fitting recipient of the 2025 SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award.

Does Your Build Have What It Takes to Win?   

Entries for the 2026 SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award are now open to builders exhibiting a feature vehicle at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, that demonstrates engineering excellence.

Entries should demonstrate technical excellence, innovative design and creative problem-solving that advances vehicle performance, functionality, safety or overall capability.

To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video and description of the build's engineering content, along with the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show. Entries are being accepted through Wednesday, October 28, at this link. 

The winner will be announced at SEMA Central on Thursday, November 5, and will receive a commemorative trophy.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., Office

The California Legislature has passed a landmark, SEMA-sponsored bill that will create a new conditional sales pathway for aftermarket emissions-related products to reach the market while under consideration for the state's full approval for sales.  

SB 1069, authored by Sen. Tim Grayson (D-Concord) and now headed to Gov. Gavin Newsom for his consideration, represents a thoughtful approach that maintains California's emissions standards while creating meaningful improvements for manufacturers that invest in compliance. 

• SB 1069 applies to emissions-related automotive aftermarket products that require a CARB Executive Order (EO) before they can be legally sold, advertised or installed in California. An EO confirms that a product has demonstrated compliance with the state's applicable emissions requirements and is therefore eligible for sale in the California market.  

"SB 1069 will give manufacturers that have invested in emissions testing and compliance a meaningful pathway to get qualifying products to market faster in California, and enable new products to reach consumers, provide small businesses with certainty to invest, and keep American companies competitive," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA greatly appreciates CARB's willingness to work collaboratively with us on SB 1069 to craft common-sense legislation that will bolster the automotive aftermarket industry, help California maintain its emissions standards and support the small businesses who rely on certainty as they establish themselves in a highly competitive marketplace. We also thank Senator Grayson for his leadership in guiding this legislation through the legislature." 

About SB 1069 

The bill would grant conditional approval to sell, advertise, and install qualifying products to manufacturers who submit complete EO applications to CARB, supported by required emissions testing and technical documentation. This conditional approval would remain in place while CARB completes its final review. 

This new pathway would help aftermarket manufacturers bring qualifying products to market faster in California, while preserving California's emissions standards and CARB's authority to review applications and ultimately approve or deny an EO. 

Specifically, SB 1069 would create a new conditional approval process for qualifying aftermarket emissions-related products: 

• Manufacturers would submit a complete CARB EO application supported by required emissions testing and technical documentation. 
• Qualifying applicants could receive conditional approval to sell, advertise and install covered products while CARB completes its final review. 
• CARB would retain its authority to ultimately approve or deny the EO, and California's existing emissions standards would remain unchanged. 

If signed by Gov. Newsom, SB 1069 would take effect on January 1, 2027, with the program in place by July 1, 2028. 

Background 

For decades, SEMA has helped aftermarket manufacturers navigate California's emissions requirements and lawfully bring products to market.  

The SEMA Garage provides manufacturers with emissions testing, engineering expertise, and compliance assistance, and over the past eight years, has assisted with approximately 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB and completed more than 800 EO applications on behalf of member companies. 

Of the 7,000 automotive aftermarket businesses nationwide that SEMA represents, more than 1,200 are California manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. California's specialty automotive aftermarket generates $40.44 billion in economic output, supports more than 149,000 jobs, delivers $13.47 billion in wages and benefits, and pays $6.16 billion in state and local taxes. 

• The automotive aftermarket is predominantly comprised of small businesses that continually invest in new products, technology, engineering, and compliance. SB 1069 would help qualifying manufacturers bring compliant products to California customers sooner. 

SEMA has a lengthy track record of supporting emissions compliance at the federal level and in California. This includes more than $30 million invested in emissions compliance through the SEMA Garage program, including Emissions Compliance Centers in Diamond Bar, California, and Plymouth, Michigan.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Belish

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., Office

The California Legislature has passed a landmark, SEMA-sponsored bill that will create a new conditional sales pathway for aftermarket emissions-related products to reach the market while under consideration for the state's full approval for sales.  

SB 1069, authored by Sen. Tim Grayson (D-Concord) and now headed to Gov. Gavin Newsom for his consideration, represents a thoughtful approach that maintains California's emissions standards while creating meaningful improvements for manufacturers that invest in compliance. 

• SB 1069 applies to emissions-related automotive aftermarket products that require a CARB Executive Order (EO) before they can be legally sold, advertised or installed in California. An EO confirms that a product has demonstrated compliance with the state's applicable emissions requirements and is therefore eligible for sale in the California market.  

"SB 1069 will give manufacturers that have invested in emissions testing and compliance a meaningful pathway to get qualifying products to market faster in California, and enable new products to reach consumers, provide small businesses with certainty to invest, and keep American companies competitive," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA greatly appreciates CARB's willingness to work collaboratively with us on SB 1069 to craft common-sense legislation that will bolster the automotive aftermarket industry, help California maintain its emissions standards and support the small businesses who rely on certainty as they establish themselves in a highly competitive marketplace. We also thank Senator Grayson for his leadership in guiding this legislation through the legislature." 

About SB 1069 

The bill would grant conditional approval to sell, advertise, and install qualifying products to manufacturers who submit complete EO applications to CARB, supported by required emissions testing and technical documentation. This conditional approval would remain in place while CARB completes its final review. 

This new pathway would help aftermarket manufacturers bring qualifying products to market faster in California, while preserving California's emissions standards and CARB's authority to review applications and ultimately approve or deny an EO. 

Specifically, SB 1069 would create a new conditional approval process for qualifying aftermarket emissions-related products: 

• Manufacturers would submit a complete CARB EO application supported by required emissions testing and technical documentation. 
• Qualifying applicants could receive conditional approval to sell, advertise and install covered products while CARB completes its final review. 
• CARB would retain its authority to ultimately approve or deny the EO, and California's existing emissions standards would remain unchanged. 

If signed by Gov. Newsom, SB 1069 would take effect on January 1, 2027, with the program in place by July 1, 2028. 

Background 

For decades, SEMA has helped aftermarket manufacturers navigate California's emissions requirements and lawfully bring products to market.  

The SEMA Garage provides manufacturers with emissions testing, engineering expertise, and compliance assistance, and over the past eight years, has assisted with approximately 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB and completed more than 800 EO applications on behalf of member companies. 

Of the 7,000 automotive aftermarket businesses nationwide that SEMA represents, more than 1,200 are California manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. California's specialty automotive aftermarket generates $40.44 billion in economic output, supports more than 149,000 jobs, delivers $13.47 billion in wages and benefits, and pays $6.16 billion in state and local taxes. 

• The automotive aftermarket is predominantly comprised of small businesses that continually invest in new products, technology, engineering, and compliance. SB 1069 would help qualifying manufacturers bring compliant products to California customers sooner. 

SEMA has a lengthy track record of supporting emissions compliance at the federal level and in California. This includes more than $30 million invested in emissions compliance through the SEMA Garage program, including Emissions Compliance Centers in Diamond Bar, California, and Plymouth, Michigan.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Belish

By Ashley Reyes

Eight of SEMA's council and network communities are accepting nominations for their prestigious awards that will be presented at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Industry members can recognize a leading company or individual for exceptional contributions to their niche industry segment during the past year by submitting nominations by Friday, September 4, at sema.org/cn-awards.  

Celebrating businesses, leaders, innovators, mentors and more, SEMA Council and Network Awards not only spotlight achievements made in various pillars of the industry but provide a platform in which members are honored for their unique strengths, dedication to excellence and unwavering passion that drives the automotive aftermarket forward.   

Below are tips for submitting a standout nomination:   

1. Be specific. Avoid broad statements like "they're a great leader" or "they work hard." Review the award criteria and list the nominee's specific achievements that align with the goal of the award. For example, was there a specific product that they helped innovate or launch? What initiative did they lead that improved their industry segment? Were there specific people they helped mentor? Providing concrete examples will help the nominee stand out. 
2. Highlight their impact. Share what makes the nominee a hero of their segment. Describe the state of the industry before their contributions were made, and where the industry is now because of them. Highlighting their impact will make the nomination memorable and meaningful.  
3. Tie their contributions to the mission of the Council or Network. SEMA Councils and Networks exist to advance, promote and protect the industry segments and communities that they represent. Share how your nominee's efforts supported the broader goals of the council or network. Emphasize any volunteerism or advocacy efforts that contributed to the council or network's growth and reach.  

Award winners will be announced and honored at each Council's and Network's respective events at the 2026 SEMA Show. These celebrations bring members together to network and celebrate standout contributors in their respective industries. With the 2026 SEMA Show quickly approaching, now is the time to make sure that your nominations are submitted for consideration.

To view the list of SEMA Council and Network awards and submit your nomination, visit sema.org/cn-awards.

By Ashley Reyes

As the 2026 SEMA Show approaches, the SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is hosting a virtual event to help members prepare for a successful week in Las Vegas.

"TORA Connect: Member Updates and SEMA Show Panel Discussion" will take place Tuesday, October 6, at 11:30 a.m. PDT/2:30 p.m. EDT via Zoom.

Designed for truck and off-road industry professionals looking to grow their business, the meeting will cover the latest council updates, key initiatives and opportunities to get involved. Following the membership update, attendees will hear directly from TORA volunteer leaders during a panel discussion focused on TORA's SEMA Show events.

Why attend:

• Preview TORA events and activations planned for members at the 2026 SEMA Show.
• Learn how truck and off-road businesses can increase their SEMA Show ROI by participating in TORA events.
• Gain valuable SEMA Show insights from veteran attendees in the truck and off-road space.

With the SEMA Show less than three months away, now is the time to secure your spot and learn how TORA can help your business succeed in Las Vegas and beyond.

Register for the TORA Connect webinar now.

Sponsored by Turn 14 Distribution

Turn 14 Distribution is turning a single-cab Ford F-150 into the ultimate blend of performance and utility with a fully built Yamaha YZ250F riding in the bed.

Most shop trucks spend their lives hauling parts across the lot or making supply runs. Turn 14 is building one with a power-hungry alter ego that can put down a pass after clocking out.

The plan for The Ultimate Shop Truck pairs a single-cab, short-bed Ford F-150 powered by a 5.0L Coyote V8 with a '25 Yamaha YZ250F 70th Anniversary Edition riding in the bed. This tag-team creation brings leading automotive and powersports partners together for a one-of-a-kind build destined for one lucky Turn 14 dealer.

Party in the Front

The shop truck has always been a utility tool. It's the workhorse designated for transporting supplies and keeping the shop moving. Turn 14's latest build keeps that working-class identity intact, then adds enough power to make the trip back to the shop far more interesting.

Under the hood, Ford's 5.0L Coyote V8 provides muscle car grunt and a proven performance foundation for the F-150. While big power is the plan, the project is also intended to balance dependable utility with the joy of driving. The combination is being developed with EPA and CARB requirements in mind, proving what's possible when substantial performance is built for the street.

The F-150 may still look at home outside a performance shop, but it will be ready to hold its own at the dragstrip.

Party in the Back

This performance-packed truck is only half of the story. When it's not hauling supplies, it will carry a fully built '25 Yamaha YZ250F 70th Anniversary Edition dirt bike.

The YZ250F is already a proven motocross platform straight from the factory. Turn 14 will build on that foundation using products available through its expanding powersports line card, turning the anniversary-edition bike into a proper counterpart for the Coyote-powered F-150.

This Yamaha won't be just a display piece strapped into the bed. While the F-150 is being built to perform on pavement, the YZ250F will be ready to take over once the pavement ends.

Built by Rockstar Performance Garage

To ensure both builds deliver more than show-floor looks, Turn 14 is once again turning to its trusted build partner, Rockstar Performance Garage. With experience spanning both sides of the aftermarket, the team is the ideal choice to transform the Yamaha and its Yamahauler into a cohesive pair.

Transforming a basic F-150 into a street-friendly drag contender is only part of the challenge. The YZ250F needs to feel like an extension of the same project without compromising what makes each vehicle functional.

Rockstar Performance Garage will oversee the transformation of both machines, giving them a shared identity and the same show-level attention. The finished pair will be built for use well beyond the convention floor.

Worlds Collide

The Ultimate Shop Truck reflects the crossover already found in plenty of enthusiasts' garages. Motorcycles often sit beside highly modified project cars, and the shops supporting those customers rarely limit themselves to one corner of the industry.

By pairing the F-150 with the YZ250F, Turn 14 is showcasing the breadth of its automotive and powersports offerings through two vehicles built for completely different forms of performance.

One hauls. The other gets hauled. Both are being built to perform.

The finished pair will make its official debut at the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 3-6. Turn 14 will reveal the project's build partners and share behind-the-scenes updates as The Ultimate Shop Truck comes together.

For more information, visit turn14.com.

About Turn 14 Distribution

Turn 14 Distribution is a privately-owned, 100% wholesale distributor of performance automotive and powersports aftermarket parts focused on supporting small businesses. Committed to long-term partnerships, Turn 14 delivers proprietary technology that streamlines ordering, improves inventory control, and strengthens cash flow management. Seven-day operations enable delivery to 100% of continental U.S. dealers within two days or less. Learn more at turn14.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Showgoers don't have to choose between earning hotel rewards and securing the best rates for the SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas.

Attendees who book through the official 2026 SEMA Show hotel block, managed by onPeak, can earn eligible hotel loyalty rewards points while taking advantage of discounted rates, flexible reservation policies and convenient access to Las Vegas' top hotels.

Hotel reservations for the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, are available at semashow.com/hotel.

Whether you're traveling solo or coordinating accommodations for your entire team, booking through the official SEMA Show housing provider offers benefits you won't find through many third-party booking sites.

Earn Hotel Loyalty Rewards

One of the biggest advantages of booking through the official SEMA Show hotel block is that eligible reservations can earn hotel loyalty rewards points. Simply enter your rewards program information during the booking process, then confirm it again at check-in to receive eligible credit for your stay.

For example, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn points by:

• Booking a participating Marriott or MGM property through the official onPeak reservation system.
• Entering their Marriott Bonvoy membership number in the "Hotel Rewards" section during checkout.
• Providing the same membership number again when checking in at the hotel.

It's one more way your trip to the SEMA Show can continue delivering value long after you leave Las Vegas.

Exclusive Rates With Price-Match Protection

SEMA negotiates discounted hotel rates exclusively for attendees, often below publicly available pricing. Instead of spending hours comparing booking sites, attendees can reserve with confidence through the official hotel block.

If you happen to find a lower qualifying rate elsewhere, the official housing provider also offers price-match protection, giving you another reason to book early through semashow.com/hotel.

Flexible Reservations

Travel plans can change, and the official SEMA Show hotel block is designed with that in mind. Reservations can be modified or canceled without penalty through October 8, and full prepayment is not required at the time of booking, offering flexibility that many online travel sites don't.

Simple Group Booking

Managing hotel reservations for multiple employees doesn't have to be complicated. The onPeak system allows companies to reserve multiple rooms with immediate confirmation, assign guest names later and choose whether to manage payments centrally or individually.

Sustainable Travel Options

Attendees interested in making more environmentally conscious travel decisions can also explore sustainability information for participating hotels through onPeak. The platform provides resources that help travelers identify properties and practices that align with their sustainability goals.

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.   

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 tap into available resources to help save money and maximize their return. (Still need a booth? Discover why to exhibit in 2026 here.) 

By using the Exhibitor Service Manual (semashow.com/esm) to follow deadlines, use approved vendors, plan move-in and move-out, and take advantage of opportunities, companies can get more value from their SEMA Show investment.

And after reading this article, make time for these other must-read exhibitor resources. Each offers practical tips to help companies maximize their SEMA Show plan:

• Have a Plan for the 2026 SEMA Show: Essential Resources for Exhibitors.
• Generate More Leads at the 2026 SEMA Show.
• Maximize Your Marketing ROI at the 2026 SEMA Show.

Follow 2026 Deadlines and Build a Budget

Many SEMA Show services offer advance pricing, so waiting to plan can mean paying more. Use the SEMA Show budget checklist to estimate booth, services, logistics and other company expenses, then review the exhibitor deadlines checklist (semashow.com/deadlines) to identify upcoming dates and rate increases.

Both the checklist and deadline list, along with additional resources, are in the About the Show section of the SEMA Show Exhibitor Service Manual (semashow.com/esm).

Plan for Breakdown Before the Show Starts

Review the move-out instructions and material-handling information in advance to understand when a booth can be dismantled, how materials should be shipped and details about services that may be helpful.

Keep in mind that move-out begins at 4:00 p.m. PST Friday, November 6. Early teardown is prohibited and may result in penalties, including loss of seniority or future eligibility.

Review the 2026 SEMA Show move-out instructions and more valuable resources in the About the Show section of the SEMA Show Exhibitor Service Manual (semashow.com/esm).

Put a Feature Vehicle to Work in the Booth

A booth feature vehicle can give exhibitors an additional way to showcase products and attract attention on the busy SEMA Show floor. Exhibitors considering displaying a vehicle inside the booth should review the requirements in advance, including the rules surrounding the presence and branding of products from non-exhibiting companies. Booth vehicle guidelines also cover move-in, move-out and check-in procedures.

More information on displaying a vehicle inside an exhibitor booth and additional valuable resources may be found in the Vehicles/Car Display Opportunities section of the SEMA Show Exhibitor Service Manual (semashow.com/esm).

Use Approved SEMA Show Vendors

The Exhibitor Service Manual (semashow.com/esm) is the place to find Freeman Booth Services and other approved vendors for services ranging from electrical, flooring, furnishings, signs and graphics to internet, insurance, catering, lead retrieval and much more. 

Explore the Exhibitor Service Manual.

Take Advantage of the FREE New Products Showcase Entry

For companies introducing new products, no marketing opportunity delivers greater exposure than the New Products Showcase.

The first new product submission is always free for exhibitors, making participation an easy decision. Additional entries are $95 each through October 2, after which the price increases to $175.

New for 2026, exhibitors can also enter products into the new Powersports | SxS | Lifestyle category, expanding opportunities for companies serving those growing markets. Exhibitors can get all the details and enter products at semashow.com/newproducts, also seen in the Marketing, Advertising and Sponsorships section of the Exhibitor Service Manual.

Save on Hotels, Airfare and Las Vegas Travel

SEMA Showgoers have several ways to save on hotels, airfare and transportation in Las Vegas. From discounted hotel rates and airline fares to special pricing on the Las Vegas Monorail and Vegas Loop, planning ahead can help attendees keep more of their budget intact. The SEMA Show's official hotel provider, onPeak, also offers exclusive rates and booking perks. Book a hotel here.

For a complete look at available travel discounts and transportation options, read Airfare, Monorail, The Loop and More: How to Save on SEMA Show Travel Expenses.

Questions about exhibiting? SEMA Show management is here to help at 909-396-0289 and semashow@sema.org.

And don't forget these other must-read exhibitor resources. Each offers practical tips to help companies maximize their SEMA Show plan:

• Have a Plan for the 2026 SEMA Show: Essential Resources for Exhibitors.
• Generate More Leads at the 2026 SEMA Show.
• Maximize Your Marketing ROI at the 2026 SEMA Show.

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.   

By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Ford, SEMA Garage in Detroit is inviting aftermarket suppliers to participate in an upcoming measuring session featuring five Ford vehicles on Thursday, September 24. RSVP now.

The session will feature the '26 Ford F-150, '26 Ford Expedition, '26 Ford Explorer, '26 Ford Raptor and '26 Ford Super Duty Tremor models, providing suppliers with an opportunity to gather measurements and evaluate vehicles for new aftermarket product development.

Participants will have access to 3D scanning and measurement capabilities to support product development and prototype test-fitting, along with an exclusive close-up look at the vehicles.

Reserve your time slot now––space is limited, and advance RSVP is required. Each company should RSVP for only one session.

SEMA Garage Ford Measuring Session
September 24
14655 Jib St.,
Plymouth, MI 48170
View on Google Maps.
RSVP Now.

For questions regarding SEMA measuring sessions, email productdevelopment@sema.org.