From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Driving Force Action, a SuperPAC for the automotive aftermarket industry and enthusiasts, has relaunched for the 2026 midterm elections.

Driving Force Action, a project of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), brings a verifiable track record of national success in mobilizing voters around issues and candidates who will help our nation’s automotive industry and heritage thrive.  

The SuperPAC will work to mobilize the nation's 70 million automotive enthusiasts in support of candidates who will work to preserve our shared automotive heritage. Driving Force Action also will engage on behalf of voters who seek to: 

• Strengthen American automotive manufacturing and domestic supply chains.
• Expand opportunities in the skilled trades. 
• Protect local motorsports facilities and off-road access. 
• Reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens that hinder small businesses' ability to thrive. 

"This midterm election will be one of the most pivotal in our nation's history, and it is critical that automotive enthusiasts understand what is at stake," said Lauren Wilbor, Driving Force Action's national spokesperson. "Driving Force Action will identify battleground candidates who cherish our individual freedoms, recognize the immense economic value of the aftermarket industry and understand the importance of our nation's automotive heritage. Our issues are ones that will help our nation flourish: helping American small businesses thrive, strengthening domestic manufacturing and enabling people to live their best lives through their cars and trucks."

View Driving Force Action's relaunch video above or on YouTube. 

Since its establishment, Driving Force Action has built an impressive resume of success in races where automotive issues are at the forefront of voters' concerns, beginning in Virginia's state elections in 2023, then in the 2024 presidential election, where vehicle choice was on the ballot as a national issue. Driving Force Action's work laid the foundation for 2025's successful, bipartisan effort in Congress to stop national EV mandates and preserve vehicle choice through the passage of a Congressional Review Act resolution. 

ABOUT DRIVING FORCE ACTION 

Driving Force Action is an independent expenditure-only political committee and a nationwide alliance of gearheads, car enthusiasts and small automotive businesses united to defend Americans’ freedom to drive. The organization advocates for policies and candidates who support automotive freedom, consumer choice and the preservation of car culture across the United States. Driving Force Action makes independent expenditures to support or oppose federal candidates and operates independently of any candidate, campaign or political party. To learn more, visit drivingforceaction.org. 

Driving Force Action does not coordinate its activities with candidates or political committees. 

Paid for by Driving Force Action (drivingforceaction.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Driving Force Action, a SuperPAC for the automotive aftermarket industry and enthusiasts, has relaunched for the 2026 midterm elections.

Driving Force Action, a project of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), brings a verifiable track record of national success in mobilizing voters around issues and candidates who will help our nation’s automotive industry and heritage thrive.  

The SuperPAC will work to mobilize the nation's 70 million automotive enthusiasts in support of candidates who will work to preserve our shared automotive heritage. Driving Force Action also will engage on behalf of voters who seek to: 

• Strengthen American automotive manufacturing and domestic supply chains.
• Expand opportunities in the skilled trades. 
• Protect local motorsports facilities and off-road access. 
• Reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens that hinder small businesses' ability to thrive. 

"This midterm election will be one of the most pivotal in our nation's history, and it is critical that automotive enthusiasts understand what is at stake," said Lauren Wilbor, Driving Force Action's national spokesperson. "Driving Force Action will identify battleground candidates who cherish our individual freedoms, recognize the immense economic value of the aftermarket industry and understand the importance of our nation's automotive heritage. Our issues are ones that will help our nation flourish: helping American small businesses thrive, strengthening domestic manufacturing and enabling people to live their best lives through their cars and trucks."

View Driving Force Action's relaunch video above or on YouTube. 

Since its establishment, Driving Force Action has built an impressive resume of success in races where automotive issues are at the forefront of voters' concerns, beginning in Virginia's state elections in 2023, then in the 2024 presidential election, where vehicle choice was on the ballot as a national issue. Driving Force Action's work laid the foundation for 2025's successful, bipartisan effort in Congress to stop national EV mandates and preserve vehicle choice through the passage of a Congressional Review Act resolution. 

ABOUT DRIVING FORCE ACTION 

Driving Force Action is an independent expenditure-only political committee and a nationwide alliance of gearheads, car enthusiasts and small automotive businesses united to defend Americans’ freedom to drive. The organization advocates for policies and candidates who support automotive freedom, consumer choice and the preservation of car culture across the United States. Driving Force Action makes independent expenditures to support or oppose federal candidates and operates independently of any candidate, campaign or political party. To learn more, visit drivingforceaction.org. 

Driving Force Action does not coordinate its activities with candidates or political committees. 

Paid for by Driving Force Action (drivingforceaction.org) and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. 

By Ashley Reyes

There is still time to register for the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) Lunch & Learn, "Road to the SEMA Show From the People That Know", taking place Thursday, July 30, at 10:30 a.m. PDT/1:30 p.m. EDT.

The 2026 SEMA Show (November 3-6 in Las Vegas) is primed to deliver an experience unlike any other trade show on the planet by representing the full spectrum of specialty equipment, from performance and racing to trucks, SUVs and off-road, powersports, accessories, tools and equipment, and emerging technology.

Join the session and hear from SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Sales Warren Kosikov, Show Operations Director Lorri Monty and SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins as they share:

• Key features and updates coming to the 2026 SEMA Show
• Registration updates
• Helpful exhibitor resources
• Sales opportunities
• Important deadlines

🎁 Bonus incentive: The first 20 members who register and attend the entire webinar will receive a $20 Uber Eats Voucher to use the remainder of the webinar day and the following day.

By Ashley Reyes

Aftermarket engineers interested in the technical considerations of designing spark-ignition engines to run on alternative fuels, including alcohol-based fuels, CNG and propane, can expand their expertise through an upcoming webinar hosted by the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN).

During "Alternative Fuels," taking place on September 15, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. PDT/3:00 p.m. EDT, attendees will hear from Greg Banish, president and owner at Calibrated Success, and Peter Treydte, powertrain and compliance specialist at Automotive Consulting Services, as they give an in-depth overview of tuning and design considerations to allow a spark-ignition engine to run on fuels other than gasoline. The session will include discussions about optimal air-fuel ratios, ignition timing, compression ratios and will touch on the pros and cons of various fuel options.

You'll learn:

• What alternative fuels are viable in a spark-ignited engine
• Hardware considerations and tuning methods for alternative fuels
• Paths to compliance for aftermarket conversion kits

As consumer interest grows in alternatives to gasoline for performance, the cost of operation and, in some cases, improved emissions, this session will provide valuable insights for companies developing products to meet evolving market demand.

Register now.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Days Program returns next week to the NSRA Street Rod Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky, giving visitors the opportunity to learn directly from top manufacturers in the hot-rod market.

The program kicks off with an HRIA Open Meeting and Networking Event on Wednesday, August 5. The seminars start on Thursday, August 6, and run through Saturday, August 7, giving hot-rod builders, professionals and enthusiasts the chance to learn about product selection and installation, as well as best practices for building a hot rod. The open meeting and seminars will both take place in Room B102.

All 10 sessions are free to NSRA Street Rod Nationals attendees. Registration is not required.

Seminar Schedule

Thursday, August 6  

9:15 a.m.–10:15 a.m., Flaming River "Steering Systems for Custom Builds: Parts, Setup and Performance" 

10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., Vintage Air "Performance A/C Systems: Components, Installation and Avoiding Common Mistakes"

11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m., Classic Instruments "Choosing and Installing Automotive Gauges for Reliable Performance" 

1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m., Holley (Carburetors) "Carburetor Tuning: Maximizing Performance and Reliability" 

2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m., Advanced Plating "Plating Done Right: Materials, Fit and What to Expect"

Friday, August 7 

9:15 a.m.–10:15 a.m., Painless Performance "Automotive Wiring Essentials: Relays, Protection and Practical Tips"

10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., Holley Sniper "Fuel-Injection Basics: Sniper 2 System Overview and Setup"

11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m., BluePrint Engines "Inside Engine Manufacturing: From Design to Dyno"

1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m., Borgeson Universal "Connecting Your Steering System: Design, Selection and Safe Installation"

2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m., IDIDIT "Steering Columns Explained: Options, Fit and Function"

Don't miss your chance to grow your hot rod knowledge and learn from the best in business. Join HRIA Education Days or learn more at sema.org/hria-education-days.

By Ashley Reyes

Do you know a SEMA Council or Network member whose leadership, service and impact deserve recognition? Nominate them today for the Council and Network Awards at www.sema.org/cn-awards.

Nominations are now open to recognize businesses and individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their markets and professional communities during the past year.

Some of the industry's most meaningful contributions happen behind the scenes. The SEMA Council and Network Awards program recognizes members who advance their markets and professional communities without expecting the spotlight. If you know a council or network member who has pushed the boundaries of innovation in their market segment, built a successful business, mentored future leaders or gave back through service and volunteerism, this is your chance to thank them for their contributions.  

Nominate Today

SEMA Council or Network Award nominees must be active members of the council or network for which the award is being presented. Strong nominations include detailed stories and examples that demonstrate how the nominee meets the award criteria and how their contributions support the Council or Network's mission.

Award recipients will be recognized during each group's events at the 2026 SEMA Show, taking place November 3-6 in Las Vegas.

Know a council or network member who deserves to be recognized? Nominate today.  

By Ashley Reyes

The Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Feature Vehicle Showcase at the 2026 SEMA Show will feature ten standout builds, giving automotive aftermarket buyers, media and industry professionals an opportunity to discover the latest trends driving today's truck and off-road market––all in one convenient location.  

Applications are open now for builders to be a part of the Showcase at sema.org/tora-feature-vehicles.

Located on the outside walkway between North and West Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center––known as the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail––the Showcase offers builders an opportunity to put their skills, build and brand in front of a global audience. Highlighting everything from lifted and lowered trucks and side-by-sides to overland-ready, electric vehicles/hybrid and CUV/crossover vehicles, the Showcase will reflect the full spectrum of trends defining today's truck and off-road landscape.

"The TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase is where truck and off-road innovation, creativity and products converge," said TORA Council Director Denise Waddingham. "Builders are encouraged to apply to put their hard work and ingenuity on display."  

Gain Recognition at the SEMA Show and Beyond

The 10 TORA Feature Vehicles selected for the Showcase will be in the running to win the TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show award voted on by SEMA Showgoers. The winner will be announced and recognized at the TORA Reception on Wednesday of the SEMA Show. All participating vehicles will also be featured in SEMA's digital publications and social media leading up to, during, and after the SEMA Show. 

The cost to participate in the Showcase is $1,500, with $500 of that amount benefiting SEMA Cares. Apply here.

Contact Denise Waddingham at deniselw@sema.org with any questions.

By Ashley Reyes

Manufacturer registration is open for the SEMA Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference, taking place February 2-4, 2027, in Orlando, Florida, at mediatradeconference.com.

The media landscape has evolved during the past decade, and so have the ways that brands interact with and reach their customers. While established editors and legacy publications remain an important part of the content mix, today's buying decisions are heavily shaped by digital creators, podcasters and niche content platforms. To stay relevant and competitive, manufacturers need to engage both traditional media and emerging content channels.

The MPMC Media Trade Conference gives motorsports manufacturers the opportunity to participate in up to 42 face-to-face, half-hour meetings with journalists, editors, podcasters and content creators who can help share their company news and products with the right audiences. Held in private suites, the pre-scheduled meetings are tailored to connect brands with media that best align with their products, audience and business focus.

Manufacturer registration for the Media Trade Conference is open to MPMC, Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) business members. Manufacturers can save money by registering before the September 8 early-bird pricing deadline. Media registration will open in October. 

To learn more or register, visit mediatradeconference.com. 

By Ashley Reyes

Leadership change is a disruptive but common reality in the workplace. Whether it's a CEO transition or a new team manager, shifts in leadership can affect retention, morale, productivity and performance.

To help automotive aftermarket professionals successfully navigate these transitions, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) will host the webinar, "Navigating a Leadership Change," on Thursday, September 8, at 12:00 p.m. PT/1:00 p.m. ET.

Join Rachel Speir of RS Marqueting, as she moderates an informative discussion with Jaclyn Bradham of Oracle Lights, Tara Demuth of R&S Truck Caps, Erika Marquez of Warn Industries, and Natalie Simon of Ford. Together, they will share real examples of how they've successfully navigated change, managed uncertainty and contributed positively during leadership transitions.

You'll learn:

• How to recognize the different layers of impact during leadership changes.
• Communication strategies for setting expectations and managing uncertainty.
• Strategies to protect culture and retention.
• What managers and leaders need to succeed.
• How to support your new manager while demonstrating your expertise and value in a productive way.
• Tools to help employees stay adaptable and resilient.

Leadership changes are inevitable, but how they are managed can prepare teams for long-term success. Register now and gain the insights to handle leadership transitions, whether as an emerging leader or team member impacted by change.

"Navigating a Leadership Change," a webinar hosted by the SEMA SBN
Thursday, September 8
12:00 p.m. PT/1:00 p.m. ET
Register now.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Colin Cook, product manager at Brembo-North America, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

Get to know Cook in his interview with SEMA News below. 

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

Colin Cook: Something I have heard many times is that it's better to listen than to speak. Over time, I've realized that the people who learn the most, build the strongest relationships and make the best decisions are usually the ones who truly listen first. In both personal life and work, being a good listener creates trust and helps you grow. Sometimes the smartest thing you can say is nothing at all until you fully understand the situation.

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

CC: The variety. From motorcycles to cars to trucks to on-road and off-road––I enjoy it all!

SN: Where can you be found on Saturday? 

CC: In the garage working or outside on my dirt bike or mountain bike.

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

CC: Trying to do any research I might need to be pre-informed. I also have any documents, files and information already open and ready at any point.

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

CC: John Penton: He literally did everything. He raced, was a mechanic, sold bikes, built the brand and much more all at the same time. I would love to hear how he did it all and the stories he could tell.

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