From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a historic moment for California's automotive heritage and enthusiasts, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Leno's Law (Senate Bill 1392) at the garage owned by the bill's namesake, entertainer and noted automotive enthusiast Jay Leno. The bill signing delivers significant, much-needed reform to smog check requirements to appropriately balance environmental stewardship with cultural reverence.

The bill was sponsored by Leno and SEMA.

Gov. Newsom was joined at the signing ceremony by Leno, SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola, SEMA Chair Melanie White, Senior Manager State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz, Senator Dave Cortese, and advocates who participated in the effort to preserve California's automotive heritage, including Francine Mata, co-founder and president of the Sacramento Lowrider Commission and a founding member of the California Lowrider Alliance, and Carmen Vera, co-owner of acclaimed restoration shop Pasadena Classic Car.

Leno's Law, authored by Sen. Cortese with principal co-author Sen. Shannon Grove, creates a narrow, phased-in pathway to exemptions from California's smog-check requirements for qualifying collector vehicles manufactured between 1976 and 1985. Leno's Law was crafted to provide a carefully limited solution for vehicles typically preserved for shows, parades, charitable functions and historical exhibitions, rather than vehicles used for everyday transportation.
 

The collaborative and fruitful effort to pass Leno's Law united Democrats and Republicans and mobilized a diverse set of stakeholders, including lowrider groups and car clubs, collectors, preservationists, automotive businesses and enthusiasts.

"SEMA applauds Governor Newsom for putting his signature on a historic win for California’s automotive community and for every family, enthusiast, and small business working to keep this culture alive," said Spagnola. "Leno's Law shows that California can protect clean air while also showing the appropriate reverence for the vehicles that connect generations and tell an important part of our state's story. We are grateful to Senators Cortese and Grove, Jay Leno, our member companies and the thousands of advocates whose energy fueled this effort with an unrelenting passion for our shared automotive heritage."

Background on Leno's Law

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 (manufactured before model year 1981) would be exempt from smog-check requirements. The exemption would annually expand by one model year until 2033, when it would apply to vehicles manufactured before model year 1986. To qualify, vehicles must meet the bill's collector-use requirements, and owners must either carry collector-car insurance or, via a future DMV process to be established by 2030, verify that 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 pass this bill gained support from California's automotive community and international enthusiasts. California's lowrider groups sent more than 1,700 letters, and FIA's International Historical Commission endorsed it, praising its balance of preservation and environmental goals.

California is widely recognized as a key cultural hub for America's automotive history, instantly identifiable through countless images of classic cars and trucks cruising across its roads––from desert to coast and the urban landscapes in between. Appropriately, the state is home to more than 1,500 SEMA member businesses, and its automotive aftermarket sector sustains nearly 150,000 jobs. It annually generates more than $40 billion in economic activity, provides $13 billion in wages and benefits and contributes $6 billion in taxes.

For more information, visit sema.org or visit semahq.org.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a historic moment for California's automotive heritage and enthusiasts, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Leno's Law (Senate Bill 1392) at the garage owned by the bill's namesake, entertainer and noted automotive enthusiast Jay Leno. The bill signing delivers significant, much-needed reform to smog check requirements to appropriately balance environmental stewardship with cultural reverence.

The bill was sponsored by Leno and SEMA.

Gov. Newsom was joined at the signing ceremony by Leno, SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola, SEMA Chair Melanie White, Senior Manager State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz, Senator Dave Cortese, and advocates who participated in the effort to preserve California's automotive heritage, including Francine Mata, co-founder and president of the Sacramento Lowrider Commission and a founding member of the California Lowrider Alliance, and Carmen Vera, co-owner of acclaimed restoration shop Pasadena Classic Car.

Leno's Law, authored by Sen. Cortese with principal co-author Sen. Shannon Grove, creates a narrow, phased-in pathway to exemptions from California's smog-check requirements for qualifying collector vehicles manufactured between 1976 and 1985. Leno's Law was crafted to provide a carefully limited solution for vehicles typically preserved for shows, parades, charitable functions and historical exhibitions, rather than vehicles used for everyday transportation.
 

The collaborative and fruitful effort to pass Leno's Law united Democrats and Republicans and mobilized a diverse set of stakeholders, including lowrider groups and car clubs, collectors, preservationists, automotive businesses and enthusiasts.

"SEMA applauds Governor Newsom for putting his signature on a historic win for California’s automotive community and for every family, enthusiast, and small business working to keep this culture alive," said Spagnola. "Leno's Law shows that California can protect clean air while also showing the appropriate reverence for the vehicles that connect generations and tell an important part of our state's story. We are grateful to Senators Cortese and Grove, Jay Leno, our member companies and the thousands of advocates whose energy fueled this effort with an unrelenting passion for our shared automotive heritage."

Background on Leno's Law

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 (manufactured before model year 1981) would be exempt from smog-check requirements. The exemption would annually expand by one model year until 2033, when it would apply to vehicles manufactured before model year 1986. To qualify, vehicles must meet the bill's collector-use requirements, and owners must either carry collector-car insurance or, via a future DMV process to be established by 2030, verify that 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 pass this bill gained support from California's automotive community and international enthusiasts. California's lowrider groups sent more than 1,700 letters, and FIA's International Historical Commission endorsed it, praising its balance of preservation and environmental goals.

California is widely recognized as a key cultural hub for America's automotive history, instantly identifiable through countless images of classic cars and trucks cruising across its roads––from desert to coast and the urban landscapes in between. Appropriately, the state is home to more than 1,500 SEMA member businesses, and its automotive aftermarket sector sustains nearly 150,000 jobs. It annually generates more than $40 billion in economic activity, provides $13 billion in wages and benefits and contributes $6 billion in taxes.

For more information, visit sema.org or visit semahq.org.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, is less than 50 days away. For exhibitors, bringing the right team members can help companies make the most of their investment––and taking advantage of available travel savings can help make the trip more cost-effective. (Still need a booth? Start here.) 
 

Register Staff Members Now to Save on SEMA Show Badges

Exhibitors should register their staff members as soon as possible. For domestic U.S. and Canadian exhibitors, badges registered by Friday, September 25, will be mailed to the Exhibitor Key Contact. Registrations can still be completed online after that date, but badges must be picked up on-site. International exhibitor badges are not mailed. Each registered staff member must bring the confirmation email with QR code and a government-issued photo ID to pick up a badge.

The Exhibitor Key Contact can register company personnel through the Exhibitor Registration portal. View more details about registering staff members at semashow.com/exhibitor-registration.

Why Bringing a Bigger Team to SEMA Helps Exhibitors in the Long Run

Bringing more team members a;gives companies more opportunities to cover the Show floor, evaluate new products, connect with industry members and bring fresh ideas back to the business.

Employees from different areas can offer new perspectives, while SEMA Education sessions can help staff build skills and stay current on aftermarket developments. The Show also gives newer employees and emerging leaders opportunities to learn from industry experts and build professional connections.

Registration assistance is available Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. ET, at 508-743-8571 or aapexsema@maritz.com.

Save on Airfare to the 2026 SEMA Show

Exhibitors can also take advantage of discounted airfare available through several airlines during the SEMA Show travel period.

• Alaska Airlines: 7% off published fares for travel Oct. 27–Nov. 9. Use code CMO943 when booking.
• Delta Air Lines: 3%, 5% or 8% discounts for travel Oct. 27–Nov. 9. Use code NY4K4.
• Southwest Airlines: Up to 10% off Choice Extra and Choice Preferred fares for travel Oct. 31–Nov. 9.
• United Airlines: 2%, 5% or 7% discounts for travel Oct. 27–Nov. 9. Use code ZS5W757550.

Companies should review each airline's terms and booking requirements when making reservations.

Consider the Las Vegas Monorail, Discounted During SEMA Week

For staff members staying at hotels near the Las Vegas Monorail, the system can provide a convenient way to travel between the Strip and the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Monorail operates above street-level traffic, and the Boingo Station provides access to the LVCC near the Central Hall.

Stations also serve areas near MGM Grand, Horseshoe/Paris, Flamingo/Caesars Palace, Harrah's/The LINQ, Westgate and Sahara. SEMA Show attendees can access exclusive Monorail ticket discounts through the SEMA 2026 ticket page.

Use the Vegas Loop During SEMA Week

The Las Vegas Convention Center Loop provides underground transportation around the LVCC, with rides on LVCC property available at no charge. It can help staff members move between areas of the campus without walking the entire distance between buildings.

The Loop also connects the LVCC with locations including Westgate, Encore and Resorts World. Those routes are fee-based, with rates available through the Vegas Loop ticket page.

Book Official SEMA Show Hotels for the Lowest Possible Prices 

With a larger team attending, coordinating hotel accommodations early becomes especially important. Exhibitors can book through onPeak, the official housing provider for the SEMA Show, for hotel options, flexible booking and opportunities like earning hotel loyalty rewards at select properties, including the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy rewards points. Companies can book SEMA Show hotel rooms through onPeak.

Don't Forget Xpress Leads

More staff members at the Show can also mean more opportunities to connect with customers and prospects. Maritz Xpress Leads allows exhibitors to scan attendee badges and capture lead information, making it easier for staff members to collect and organize contacts throughout the Show.

Leads can be reviewed at the end of each day so teams can begin organizing follow-up while conversations are still fresh. Learn more about Xpress Leads.

More Must-Read Exhibitor Resources

Registering staff and planning travel are just two pieces of a successful SEMA Show strategy. Exhibitors can also review the Exhibitor Service Manual plus these other must-read resources for practical guidance on planning, marketing, generating leads and managing their Show investment:

• Have a Plan for the 2026 SEMA Show: Essential Resources for Exhibitors
• Exhibitors: Maximize Your Marketing ROI at the 2026 SEMA Show
• Generate More Leads at the 2026 SEMA Show
• Resources to Help Exhibitors Save Money on Their 2026 SEMA Show Investment

Questions about exhibiting? SEMA Show management is available at 909-396-0289 or SEMAShow@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, the Registration Resource Center, or the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan.  

Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, 2026, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.   

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed SEMA-sponsored SB 1069 into law, establishing a new conditional approval pathway designed to help qualifying aftermarket emissions-related products reach the California market faster.

Authored by Senator Tim Grayson (D-Concord), the new law marks the culmination of a multi-year effort by SEMA and California lawmakers to create a new pathway for manufacturers that invest in emissions testing and compliance.

• SB 1069 will allow qualifying manufacturers that submit complete CARB Executive Order applications, supported by required emissions testing and technical documentation, to receive conditional approval to sell, advertise, and install covered products while CARB completes its final review.

"SB 1069 is an important win for our industry, giving manufacturers that have invested in emissions testing and compliance a meaningful new pathway to bring qualifying products to market faster in California," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "This law will help innovative products reach consumers sooner, give small businesses greater certainty to invest and grow, and help American companies remain competitive. We thank Senator Grayson for his leadership, Governor Newsom for signing this legislation, and CARB for its willingness to work collaboratively with SEMA throughout this process."

"California's automotive aftermarket is an important part of our economy, and SB 1069 gives businesses that follow the rules and invest in compliance a clearer path forward. This law recognizes the work manufacturers put into meeting California’s emissions requirements while giving them greater certainty as they plan new products and investments," said Senator Grayson. "I'm proud to have authored this legislation and appreciate the work of SEMA, CARB, my colleagues in the Legislature, and Governor Newsom and his team in helping bring it across the finish line."

About SB 1069

Emissions-related automotive aftermarket products generally require a CARB EO before they can be legally sold, advertised or installed in California. Obtaining an EO requires manufacturers to invest in emissions testing, engineering and technical documentation demonstrating that their products meet California's applicable emissions standards.

Under SB 1069, manufacturers that submit a complete EO application supported by the required testing and technical documentation may receive conditional approval to sell, advertise and install qualifying products while CARB completes its final review.

The pathway is designed to help compliant products reach California consumers sooner without changing the emissions standards manufacturers must meet or CARB's authority to ultimately approve or deny an EO.

What Happens Next With SB 1069

SB 1069 takes effect January 1, 2027. CARB will then implement the conditional approval program by July 1, 2028.

SEMA will continue working with CARB and the aftermarket industry as the program is developed and implemented.

Background on SB 1069

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 will 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.

For more information, visit sema.org or visit semahq.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Jean Pierre Pinochet

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed SEMA-sponsored SB 1069 into law, establishing a new conditional approval pathway designed to help qualifying aftermarket emissions-related products reach the California market faster.

Authored by Senator Tim Grayson (D-Concord), the new law marks the culmination of a multi-year effort by SEMA and California lawmakers to create a new pathway for manufacturers that invest in emissions testing and compliance.

• SB 1069 will allow qualifying manufacturers that submit complete CARB Executive Order applications, supported by required emissions testing and technical documentation, to receive conditional approval to sell, advertise, and install covered products while CARB completes its final review.

"SB 1069 is an important win for our industry, giving manufacturers that have invested in emissions testing and compliance a meaningful new pathway to bring qualifying products to market faster in California," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. "This law will help innovative products reach consumers sooner, give small businesses greater certainty to invest and grow, and help American companies remain competitive. We thank Senator Grayson for his leadership, Governor Newsom for signing this legislation, and CARB for its willingness to work collaboratively with SEMA throughout this process."

"California's automotive aftermarket is an important part of our economy, and SB 1069 gives businesses that follow the rules and invest in compliance a clearer path forward. This law recognizes the work manufacturers put into meeting California’s emissions requirements while giving them greater certainty as they plan new products and investments," said Senator Grayson. "I'm proud to have authored this legislation and appreciate the work of SEMA, CARB, my colleagues in the Legislature, and Governor Newsom and his team in helping bring it across the finish line."

About SB 1069

Emissions-related automotive aftermarket products generally require a CARB EO before they can be legally sold, advertised or installed in California. Obtaining an EO requires manufacturers to invest in emissions testing, engineering and technical documentation demonstrating that their products meet California's applicable emissions standards.

Under SB 1069, manufacturers that submit a complete EO application supported by the required testing and technical documentation may receive conditional approval to sell, advertise and install qualifying products while CARB completes its final review.

The pathway is designed to help compliant products reach California consumers sooner without changing the emissions standards manufacturers must meet or CARB's authority to ultimately approve or deny an EO.

What Happens Next With SB 1069

SB 1069 takes effect January 1, 2027. CARB will then implement the conditional approval program by July 1, 2028.

SEMA will continue working with CARB and the aftermarket industry as the program is developed and implemented.

Background on SB 1069

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 will 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.

For more information, visit sema.org or visit semahq.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Jean Pierre Pinochet

By SEMA News Editors

The 2026 SEMA Show continues to build momentum due to increasing exhibitor demand and strong growth across key categories, including tools and equipment. For professionals focused on automotive service, fabrication and repair, this year's Show offers a comprehensive look at the latest tools and shop solutions driving productivity and precision.

The SEMA Show's dedicated Tools & Equipment section, located in South Hall Upper, will feature hundreds of exhibiting brands, making it a must-see destination for technicians, shop owners, fabricators and installers. Attendees will discover a full range of professional-grade tools engineered to meet the evolving demands of today's automotive workforce.

From hand tools and power tools to diagnostic equipment, shop systems, lifting solutions, fabrication tools and specialty service equipment, the section will highlight innovations designed to improve efficiency, safety and accuracy in every type of automotive environment. As vehicles become more advanced, the need for high-quality, specialized tools continues to grow, driving strong interest and investment across the category.

The recently released SEMA Market Report highlights several major aftermarket segments that rely heavily on professional installation and service. The report notes that the U.S. vehicle fleet reached 296.5 million vehicles in operation in 2025, while the wheels, tires and suspension category totaled $12.6 billion, making it one of the largest segments of the automotive aftermarket. Combined with significant professional installation rates across categories such as wheels and tires, suspension, drivetrain, driver-assist systems and electronics, these market conditions point to a strong underlying demand for the tools, equipment, diagnostics and shop technologies that support aftermarket service providers.

The SEMA Show Tools & Equipment section is anchored by legacy brands that have been exhibiting at the event for many years and have helped shape the professional tools market, including Bad Dog Tools, Carlyle Tools, Gearwrench, Harbor Freight, Knipex, Milwaukee, Spectro Wire & Cable Inc. and Wiha. Their continued presence underscores both the heritage and innovation that define the tools and equipment segment. 

"The Tools & Equipment category is fundamental to everything that happens across the automotive aftermarket," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "Whether it's diagnostics, fabrication or daily service work, professionals rely on advanced tools to get the job done right. The SEMA Show brings together the industry's most trusted legacy brands and the newest innovators, giving attendees a firsthand look at the solutions shaping the future of automotive work."

Overall, exhibitor commitments for the 2026 SEMA Show have surpassed 1 million net sq. ft. of indoor exhibit space, with more than 2,000 brands preparing to connect with a global audience November 3-6 in Las Vegas. The event remains one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the country, reflecting continued investment and growth across the automotive aftermarket.
 

Beyond tools and equipment, the 2026 SEMA Show will feature strong participation across performance, trucks, collision repair, mobile electronics, powersports and emerging technologies. Major OEMs, including Toyota, Ford, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan and Stellantis, will also return, reinforcing the connection between factory engineering and aftermarket solutions.

Attendees can also experience signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers High Performance Car Care and FutureTech Studio, offering a closer look at the trends and technologies influencing the next generation of automotive tools and shop environments.

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, the Registration Resource Center, or the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan. 

Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.  

By SEMA News Editors

The 2026 SEMA Fest lineup is revving up for a high-energy finale to SEMA Week, with drifting demonstrations, exotic and hypercar displays, motorsports attractions and live music taking over the SEMA Show campus on Friday, November 6. Tickets are available at semafest.com.

The public event will put automotive and motorsports action front and center, giving enthusiasts a chance to experience the excitement of SEMA Week beyond the trade-show floor. Among the featured attractions are OPTIMA drifting demonstrations, the high-intensity Globe of Death and a curated collection of rare supercars and hypercars from Supercar Saturdays Florida.

The automotive action builds throughout the day. SEMA Fest follows the SEMA Show, where attendees can see thousands of custom vehicles and explore the latest products and technology from more than 2,000 exhibiting brands and vendors. The action then moves outdoors for the SEMA Cruise and motorsports demonstrations before continuing into the evening at SEMA Fest.

Motorsports and Featured Vehicles

OPTIMA will bring drifting demonstrations to SEMA Fest, showcasing the precision, speed and car-control skills that have made drifting a popular part of the automotive enthusiast scene.

The Globe of Death will add another dose of spectacle, with riders navigating a spherical steel structure at high speed.

Supercar Saturdays Florida will also return to SEMA Fest after making its debut last year. The organization will showcase a selection of rare hypercars and exotic vehicles, adding some of the world's most exclusive performance cars to the event's collection of featured vehicles.

Together, the demonstrations and vehicle displays will give enthusiasts an up-close look at different sides of automotive performance and car culture.

Live Music Closes Out SEMA Week

The automotive attractions will be joined by a four-act music lineup headlined by multi-platinum punk-rock band The Offspring.

The Southern California group will bring its catalog of hits, including "Self Esteem," "Come Out and Play," "The Kids Aren't Alright" and "Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)," to the SEMA Fest stage.

Jimmy Eat World will add its alternative-rock sound to the lineup, while 311 will bring its mix of rock, reggae, funk and hip-hop influences. California rock band The Alive rounds out the bill.

"SEMA Fest represents where our industry is headed, at the crossroads of innovation, lifestyle and cultural relevance," said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. "By bringing together the world's premier automotive gathering with iconic music, immersive automotive experiences and enthusiast access, we are creating a powerful platform that expands the reach of car culture, strengthens engagement with new audiences and sends SEMA Week out on a high-energy, high-impact note."

SEMA Fest serves as the public-facing finale of SEMA Week, extending the SEMA Show experience into an evening celebration of automotive culture, motorsports and music.

Tickets are available at semafest.com, including general admission, VIP concert access and combination tickets that provide access to both SEMA Fest and Friday public access to the SEMA Show.

For more information about the SEMA Show and SEMA Week, visit SEMAShow.com.

By SEMA News Editors

The RAYS Driving Experience will make its SEMA Show debut, alongside other brand activations, in the Silver Lot at the Las Vegas Convention Center, November 3-6, 2026.

Wheel manufacturer RAYS will make its first-ever official brand display at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, taking over the Silver Lot and bringing the complete VOLK RACING wheel lineup to the world's largest gathering of automotive aftermarket professionals.

The RAYS display at the SEMA Show will feature an extensive showcase of current and new wheels, exclusive collector merchandise never before available to the public, and a special experiential track designed to bring the performance of RAYS wheels to life. Invited guests, media, industry partners and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to experience firsthand the performance benefits of vehicles equipped with RAYS wheels through the exclusive RAYS Driving Experience.

RAYS' takeover of the Silver Lot at the 2026 SEMA Show, which will help celebrate the 30th anniversary of its RAYS VOLK RACING TE37 wheel, will allow select industry members participate in the RAYS Driving Experience pictured here.

The announcement comes as RAYS celebrates the 30th anniversary of its RAYS VOLK RACING TE37 wheel and will release a 2026 TE37 30th Anniversary Series––a tribute to the classic design that has inspired generations of drivers and automotive enthusiasts around the world.

Since its debut in Japan in 1996, the RAYS VOLK RACING TE37 has become a global benchmark for lightweight forged wheel performance and an enduring icon of modern car culture, the company stated. Developed through RAYS advanced forging technology, the TE37 has earned a reputation for strength, performance and unmistakable design, according to the company.

More About RAYS Wheels

Founded in Japan in 1973, RAYS Wheels is a manufacturer of forged and cast aluminum wheels for racing, performance street, OEM and aftermarket applications. Drawing on decades of motorsports experience, RAYS develops lightweight, high-strength wheels for racing, performance street, OEM, and aftermarket applications. Its portfolio includes internationally recognized brands such as VOLK RACING and gramLIGHTS.

Learn more about RAYS Wheels.

Register for 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, the Registration Resource Center or 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 Ashley Reyes

SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension and Brake Council (WTSBC) members have limited time left to register for the WTSBC Virtual General Membership Meeting, taking place Tuesday, September 29 at 11:00 a.m. PDT/2:00 p.m. EDT on Zoom.

WTSBC Virtual Membership Meetings provide a valuable opportunity to hear directly from council leadership, learn about the council's key priorities and initiatives and discover ways to get more involved as a member. Attendees will learn about upcoming networking events, educational opportunities and resources tailored to the undercar aftermarket community. This meeting also includes a preview of WTSBC events planned for the 2026 SEMA Show, enabling members to get a head start on planning for a productive week in Las Vegas in November.

WTSBC membership is open to manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers, and service providers who serve the aftermarket under chassis industry. If this sounds like you, don't miss your chance to grow your business by getting involved and joining the meeting.

Save your spot here or click below.

By SEMA News Editors

The Student Program Networking Breakfast returns to the 2026 SEMA Show––November 3-6 in Las Vegas––offering exhibiting companies a free yet valuable opportunity to connect with hundreds of passionate students eager to launch their automotive careers. 

The Student Program Networking Breakfast will take place Thursday, November 5, from 8:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m. PT in the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall Room W326.

Top reasons for exhibitors to participate in the SEMA Student Program Networking Breakfast:  

• Gain early access to emerging talent and build your talent pipeline.
• Expose your brand to hundreds of students pursuing automotive careers. 
• Share industry knowledge with the next generation of industry talent. 
• Boost your reputation as a company invested in the industry's future.

Participation is free; the event simply requires 90 minutes from a company representative. No set-up time or marketing materials are required.

Help SEMA beat its goal: The 2025 SEMA Show featured record participation from 67 exhibiting companies and SEMA wants to beat that record in 2026. Register now and be part of a memorable SEMA Show experience for the future generation of professionals!

Reserve your table. 

Know a Student or Faculty Member? Share This With Them

Registration is currently open for college students and faculty members to attend the SEMA Show Student Program:

• Faculty members can submit a group registration online.
• Students over the age of 21 attending by themselves can also apply online.

The 2026 Student Program Networking Breakfast is sponsored by Carlyle Tool. 

Questions can be directed to Joe Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs, at josee@sema.org.