By SEMA News Editors

The "2025 SEMA Market Report"--your go-to source for the insights shaping what's next for the aftermarket--is now available for download. While market conditions evolve rapidly, understanding fundamental consumer spending patterns and category preferences remains your most powerful competitive weapon.

What's Inside the "2025 SEMA Market Report"

• 2024 Consumer Spending Analysis
• Industry Size and Scope Breakdown
• Vehicle Modification Patterns - What consumers are buying
• Regional Market Performance
• Category Growth Indicators - Which segments are accelerating

Go Deeper During Our Live Virtual Event on Thursday, July 10

Scheduled for Thursday, July 10, at 1:00 p.m. EDT/10:00 a.m. PDT, SEMA's market research team will host a LIVE webinar to help you unlock the "why" behind the numbers and provide the opportunity for you to ask your most pressing questions.

What You'll Get:

• Live Expert Analysis: Industry specialists break down key findings
• Q&A Session: Direct access to report authors and market analysts
• Competitive Intelligence: Insights your non-member competitors won't access

Click here for more information or to register for the webinar.

By SEMA News Editors

The "2025 SEMA Market Report"--your go-to source for the insights shaping what's next for the aftermarket--is now available for download. While market conditions evolve rapidly, understanding fundamental consumer spending patterns and category preferences remains your most powerful competitive weapon.

What's Inside the "2025 SEMA Market Report"

• 2024 Consumer Spending Analysis
• Industry Size and Scope Breakdown
• Vehicle Modification Patterns - What consumers are buying
• Regional Market Performance
• Category Growth Indicators - Which segments are accelerating

Go Deeper During Our Live Virtual Event on Thursday, July 10

Scheduled for Thursday, July 10, at 1:00 p.m. EDT/10:00 a.m. PDT, SEMA's market research team will host a LIVE webinar to help you unlock the "why" behind the numbers and provide the opportunity for you to ask your most pressing questions.

What You'll Get:

• Live Expert Analysis: Industry specialists break down key findings
• Q&A Session: Direct access to report authors and market analysts
• Competitive Intelligence: Insights your non-member competitors won't access

Click here for more information or to register for the webinar.

From the Washington, D.C., office

SEMA recently shared the automotive aftermarket industry's important perspective on advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) technology with congressional lawmakers looking at motor-vehicle safety and the work of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). At a June 26 hearing, the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade (CMT) discussed issues related to motor-vehicle safety, including owners' rights to repair, modify and calibrate the vehicles they own, along with the regulation of autonomous vehicles (AVs) and ADAS.  

To reinforce SEMA's position as the leading voice for the automotive aftermarket industry, SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola submitted a statement for the record that stressed the importance of engaging with our sector on these issues, particularly as ADAS becomes more ubiquitous with the vehicles on the road.  

"SEMA members and vehicle owners face a growing challenge: they lack clear pathways to maintain the safety and performance integrity of ADAS from production through post-sale service, repair and modification," Spagnola wrote. "This includes ensuring vehicles remain safe and reliable after undergoing changes, including ADAS calibration. Even simple modifications, such as adding bike racks, wrapping a vehicle, adding a winch to the front bumper, and lifting a vehicle--which is especially important for driving off-road--can impact the sensors and cameras that make up ADAS." 

Spagnola's statement outlines several significant challenges that the automotive aftermarket faces in modifying and customizing vehicles with ADAS features, along with potential solutions for Congress to consider: 

• Automakers do not share ADAS calibration information, data and testing procedures/information.  
• Vehicle manufacturers are not required to provide full vehicle lifecycle support for ADAS, including instructions, application guides, proper mounting or functionality tolerances or the access needed to safely make modifications.  

This presents a challenge to correctly and safely calibrate ADAS and ensure optimal performance after basic, common modifications, such as installing larger tires and wheels, lift kits, lowering kits, bumpers, grills, push bars, light bars, bike racks, and winches. 

U.S. Representatives Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) and Neal Dunn (R-FL) questioned witnesses from across the industry, including representatives from the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association, Alliance for Automotive Innovation, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Highway Loss Data Institute, and Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, on whether the aftermarket has the data and information they need to work on and customize modern vehicles, including those with ADAS. The hearing presented a critical opportunity to shape vehicle policies that impact the majority of specialty aftermarket businesses and the majority of vehicle owners.  

Questions? Please reach out to Juan Mejia, SEMA's senior manager for federal government affairs, at juanm@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock  

From the Washington, D.C., office

SEMA recently shared the automotive aftermarket industry's important perspective on advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) technology with congressional lawmakers looking at motor-vehicle safety and the work of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). At a June 26 hearing, the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade (CMT) discussed issues related to motor-vehicle safety, including owners' rights to repair, modify and calibrate the vehicles they own, along with the regulation of autonomous vehicles (AVs) and ADAS.  

To reinforce SEMA's position as the leading voice for the automotive aftermarket industry, SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola submitted a statement for the record that stressed the importance of engaging with our sector on these issues, particularly as ADAS becomes more ubiquitous with the vehicles on the road.  

"SEMA members and vehicle owners face a growing challenge: they lack clear pathways to maintain the safety and performance integrity of ADAS from production through post-sale service, repair and modification," Spagnola wrote. "This includes ensuring vehicles remain safe and reliable after undergoing changes, including ADAS calibration. Even simple modifications, such as adding bike racks, wrapping a vehicle, adding a winch to the front bumper, and lifting a vehicle--which is especially important for driving off-road--can impact the sensors and cameras that make up ADAS." 

Spagnola's statement outlines several significant challenges that the automotive aftermarket faces in modifying and customizing vehicles with ADAS features, along with potential solutions for Congress to consider: 

• Automakers do not share ADAS calibration information, data and testing procedures/information.  
• Vehicle manufacturers are not required to provide full vehicle lifecycle support for ADAS, including instructions, application guides, proper mounting or functionality tolerances or the access needed to safely make modifications.  

This presents a challenge to correctly and safely calibrate ADAS and ensure optimal performance after basic, common modifications, such as installing larger tires and wheels, lift kits, lowering kits, bumpers, grills, push bars, light bars, bike racks, and winches. 

U.S. Representatives Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) and Neal Dunn (R-FL) questioned witnesses from across the industry, including representatives from the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association, Alliance for Automotive Innovation, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Highway Loss Data Institute, and Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, on whether the aftermarket has the data and information they need to work on and customize modern vehicles, including those with ADAS. The hearing presented a critical opportunity to shape vehicle policies that impact the majority of specialty aftermarket businesses and the majority of vehicle owners.  

Questions? Please reach out to Juan Mejia, SEMA's senior manager for federal government affairs, at juanm@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock  

Turn 14 Distribution, the industry leader in vehicle aftermarket parts wholesale distribution, just announced that purchases on select brands at Turn 14 Distribution earn points toward a chance at taking home the company's one-of-a-kind Turn 14 Distribution x SuperPro '23 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro.
 

From now through November 30, 2025, Turn 14 Distribution customers can earn points toward winning the Sequoia TRD Pro by purchasing products from the following featured brands: SuperPro, aFe Power, Hawk Performance, Firestone Airide, LIQUI MOLY, MagnaFlow, Mickey Thompson, WELD Racing, Baja Designs, sPOD and Rally Armor.
 

At the end of the promotion period, the Top 8 customers with the highest points totals in their respective bracket will be named as finalists. One lucky finalist will drive away in Turn 14 Distribution x SuperPro's head-turning '23 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro SEMA build—a vehicle built for adventure, performance and rugged style.
 

"We're thrilled to offer our customers and partners the chance to take home our '23 Sequoia TRD Pro, a build that reflects the bold spirit of the off-roading community," said Magali Tranié, vice president of marketing at Turn 14 Distribution. "This campaign is our way of saying thank you while highlighting some of the most trusted brands in the industry."

Turn 14 Distribution customers can access more details on this promotion at turn14.com.
 

About Turn 14 Distribution, Inc.

Turn 14 Distribution is the leading, award-winning wholesale distributor of automotive and powersports aftermarket parts in the United States. With strategically located distribution centers, the company provides ground shipping to 100% of continental U.S. dealers within two days. Leveraging proprietary technology, Turn 14 Distribution drives automation, real-time data and innovative logistics to deliver best-in-class service. Privately owned and operated, the company is run by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts. Learn more at turn14.com.
 

By SEMA News Editors

The 2025 SEMA Show, taking place from November 4–7 in Las Vegas, offers an attendee experience like no other automotive trade show on the planet. Attending is a no-brainer for automotive professionals, enthusiasts, media members, influencers and related industry members.

With more than 2,000 exhibitors, the SEMA Show continues to be the place where business gets done. From groundbreaking technology and next-generation tools and products to expert-led education and face-to-face networking, the Show offers everything automotive aftermarket professionals need to stay competitive in today's fast-changing landscape. It's where relationships are built, products are evaluated, strategies are sharpened and opportunities come to life.

Don't wait to secure your 2025 SEMA Show badge. Qualified individuals can register for their place at the Show right now at semashow.com/register for just $75. And you don't want to wait—prices will go up.

Below are seven reasons why you need to secure their registration (available online here and at the bottom of this article) for this year's SEMA Show:

• Exhibitors: Discover the latest product and vehicle trends across dozens of product categories: Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road; Restyling & Car Care Accessories; Powersports & Utility Vehicles; Business Services; Mobile Electronics & Technology; Racing & Performance; Hot Rod Alley; Restoration Marketplace; Collision Repair & Refinish; Tools & Equipment; Global Tire Expo--Powered by TIA (tires) and Wheels & Accessories; and First-Time and Featured Exhibitors.
• New Products Showcase: Visit the New Products Showcase to discover thousands of the latest exhibitor products displayed in one location of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Use the SEMA Show mobile app's "Product Scanner" feature to scan and download product photos and exhibitor information that will remain on your app long after the SEMA Show has ended.
• Education: SEMA Show Education is the single most crucial week of the year to power a professional development plan for your business and career. Through sessions and unique, immersive programs that explore the industry's most significant challenges and offer immediate takeaways, there is something for every automotive professional.
• Networking: The SEMA Show is where connections are built—network with exhibitors, industry leaders and VIPs/celebrities from more than 140 countries and regions. Use the Show's mobile app to view lists of all events, seminars, conferences, celebrity appearances, and speakers, including date, time, and location. In addition, this year's program includes SEMA Council & Networks receptions, happy hours and meetings--all designed to help you advance your business and grow your network. You'll also have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with others in the industry and build meaningful relationships that'll lead to real results and high-quality connections.
• Show Features: The SEMA Show is teeming with the latest innovations and trends, showcased in several dedicated areas like the SEMA Battle of the Builders; the SEMA FutureTech Studio; the outdoors Optima Village; feature vehicle displays; SEMA Garage: ADAS, Emissions and Product Development; the Collision Repair & Refinish Stage; the Overland Experience; the SEMA Show Art Walk, the new-for-2025 International Pavilion at the Westgate Las Vegas and more to be announced.
• Show Events: Unique events and activations, such as the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, the SEMA Industry Honors now at the iconic Fontainebleau, and vehicle demonstrations, will provide ample opportunities for the industry to unite.
• And much more: Of course, attending the SEMA Show in Las Vegas is the best way to boost an automotive professional's business and career path, but be sure to make the most of your time in Vegas with ancillary events like after-hours networking and SEMA Fest, a celebration of motorsports, music and car culture. Note: Your SEMA Show badge does not provide access to SEMA Fest. Visit SEMAFest.com to stay up-to-date and discover when tickets will be available.

Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $75 per person through September 27. After September 27, registration online or on-site will be $100. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

For more information about the 2025 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com. Sign up for updates on SEMA Fest at semafest.com.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2025 SEMA Show is now accepting submissions to participate in the 2025 Bin Program, which offers automotive publications a simple way to gain mass exposure for their magazine.

Showcase your magazine where it matters--the aftermarket's premier event--and make sure you take advantage of the opportunity to get your magazine in front of the SEMA Show's 160,000-plus attendees and exhibitors.

In exchange for one standard full-page color ad in your publication, participants will get to display and distribute their publication at the 2025 SEMA Show.

Get your magazine seen by thousands of potential subscribers and advertisers; act now and submit your details here.

Editor's Note: This story was originally published on July 1, 2025. Submissions for the Bin Program at the 2025 SEMA Show are now closed. Questions? Contact Lynne Johnson, SEMA Marketing Director, Agency and Creative Services, at lynnej@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

The Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), one of America's premier resources for the collective vehicle community, has established a new judging class that specifically recognizes Japanese domestic market (JDM) vehicles.

JDM has proven to be a fast-growing segment of the antique automobile hobby, particularly appealing to younger hobbyists. These vehicles were designed and built exclusively for Japan and never officially imported and sold in America. They are small, reasonably affordable and include unique performance and styling features of interest.  

Examples of JDM cars include the Nissan Figaro, Honda Acty, Subaru Sambar, Mazda Autozam AZ-1, Mitsuoka Le-Seyde and many others.

"We're pleased to welcome members with unmodified Japanese domestic vehicles to our national show fields and have already featured them in Antique Automobile magazine. We encourage the new crop of JDM owners to join AACA and enjoy the myriad of membership benefits and camaraderie," said AACA Vice President of Judging Dave Bowman.

AACA defines an "antique" as any 25-year-old-or-older self-propelled vehicle that is intended for passenger use. The non-profit organization based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is dedicated to the history, maintenance, restoration, judging and enjoyment of any and all such automobiles in the inclusive spirit of sportsmanship and good fellowship.

For more information or to join the AACA, visit aaca.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

By Ashley Reyes

Releasing a new product into the market is an exciting endeavor. After months--or even years--of development, finally getting to share your innovation with the world marks a pivotal moment for your brand. Equally important, however, is protecting your innovation, and patents can help. 

SEMA members are invited to a new webinar on Thursday, July 31, at 10:30 a.m. PDT/1:30 p.m. EDT. that will cover essential information on how companies can protect and monetize their intellectual property. Presented by the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN), the webinar will help attendees learn how to utilize patents to protect their brand, inventions and innovations, strengthening their ability to compete and grow in the automotive aftermarket industry. 

About the Speakers  

This webinar will feature speakers Jeffrey Banyas, manager of legal production at Sisson & Banyas Attorneys at Law, and Ifti Zaim, counsel at Irwin IP LLP (now a part of Miller Johnson). 

Banyas is a licensed United States patent attorney who advises his clients on all aspects of intellectual property law. His practice encompasses licensing negotiations, enforcement, patent drafting and prosecution, trademark filing and prosecution, e-commerce, trade secret documentation and copyrights. Zaim directs his practice towards utility and design patent litigation, patent validity challenges before the Patent Trial and Appeal board, intellectual property-related customs disputes and trade-secret litigation. 

The first 20 members to register for the webinar will receive a $20 Uber Eats Voucher to use the day of the webinar--so don't wait. Register here. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a significant victory for automotive enthusiasts and the specialty-equipment industry, Colorado and Texas have enacted two SEMA-supported bills--Colorado House Bill (HB) 1281 and Texas Senate Bill (SB) 1816--that legalize the titling, registration and on-road use of Japanese-manufactured miniature vehicles, commonly known as kei trucks. 

Originally developed in Japan for efficient, affordable transport, kei trucks are compact utility vehicles with engines under 660cc. Despite their size, they offer surprising capability and charm--earning a loyal following among American enthusiasts. Across the United States, owners are customizing their trucks, hosting meetups and building communities around these cultural icons. 

Signed by Colorado Governor Jared Polis, HB 1281 reduces regulatory ambiguity by allowing kei vehicles to be titled and registered without being disqualified based on their original design. The law eliminates unnecessary inspections and affirms the rights of owners, sellers and restoration professionals--bolstering a $3.9-billion specialty equipment industry that supports more than 17,000 jobs statewide. 

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed SB 1816 into law, officially recognizing kei trucks as motor vehicles under Texas law. The bill mandates essential safety features and aligns with federal import standards by requiring vehicles to be at least 25 years old. It also formalizes the state’s 2024 decision to lift its registration ban, reinforcing support for Texas’ $24.7-billion aftermarket economy and nearly 100,000 industry jobs. 

Kei trucks are more than a trend--they represent a growing movement rooted in creativity, sustainability and cultural appreciation. These legislative wins reflect that momentum and set a precedent for other states to follow. 

SEMA remains committed to protecting the rights of enthusiasts and supporting the businesses that serve them. For more information on these bills or to get involved in kei truck advocacy, contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA senior manager of state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org.

Photos courtesy of Lone Star Kei and Texas Import Society