By SEMA News Editors

Turn 14 Distribution, one of the leaders in vehicle aftermarket parts wholesale distribution, has added Pure Drivetrain Solutions (PDS) to its growing catalog of high-performance drivetrain brands.

PDS specializes in DIY high-performance transmission rebuild kits engineered to upgrade stock transmissions for high-horsepower applications. These comprehensive kits include everything dealers need for a complete performance rebuild. In addition to transmission hard parts kits, Turn 14 Distribution will also offer PDS billet race torque converters and high-performance transfer case rebuild kits.

While originally focused on European vehicle applications, PDS has expanded its product development to include high-horsepower domestic platforms.

As the first wholesale distributor of PDS, Turn 14 Distribution will service PDS' existing direct dealer network, allowing the brand to focus on new-product development and continued involvement with professional race teams. All PDS offerings are premium, performance-driven components designed for demanding applications.

"Pure Drivetrain Solutions represents a unique opportunity for Turn 14 Distribution to enter a specialized, high-performance product space with strong demand" said Tom Miller, divisional purchasing manager at Turn 14 Distribution. "By adding this new brand, we aim to benefit PDS, Turn 14, and our dealers alike, and we are excited to bring these products to market."

Turn 14 Distribution customers can order PDS products now by logging in to their account at turn14.com.

By SEMA News Editors

WRC Candidate Event Sets Course for Future U.S. Round

The FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), working in collaboration with the FIA, Automobile Competition Committee of the United States (ACCUS) and Podium Events, has taken a step towards a return to the United States with a WRC candidate event to be held this June.

Scheduled for June 11-17, 2026, the candidate event will be assessed against full WRC standards across stages in Tennessee and Kentucky, as part of a structured process that could open the door to a full WRC round from 2027.

The United States last hosted a WRC round in 1988 when the Olympus Rally formed part of the global calendar, according to series officials.

The trial event will be delivered in collaboration with ACCUS and closely evaluated by FIA delegates, covering all aspects of rally delivery, including sporting operations, safety, infrastructure and event promotion, WRC officials said.

Alongside stage and service park assessments, the program will include engagement with the American rally community through a visit to a round of the American Rally Association (ARA) National Championship, as well as meetings with proposed promoter Podium Event Partners, which brings experience from multiple areas of American motor sport.

The move underlines the championship's long-term ambition to expand its global footprint and establish a sustainable presence in one of the world's most significant motorsports markets, series officials said.

"Plans to bring WRC back to the USA have been germinating for some time and the confirmation of this candidate event marks a major milestone," said Rally USA project leader Marc de Jong. "It is a significant step in the championship's much-anticipated return to the United States, after an absence of nearly 40 years."

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the United States represented a key growth opportunity for the championship.

"The United States represents one of the most important growth opportunities for the FIA World Rally Championship," he said. "It is a nation where motorsport is part of the cultural DNA, home to world-class domestic championships and a rapidly growing appetite for global competition.

"Expanding the WRC into North America would not only elevate the championship's global reach, but unite rallying with a knowledgeable, passionate and expanding fanbase in a market where participation and fan engagement continue to accelerate."

For more information, visit wrc.com.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock/ArtiMind

Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 Returns to Indy 500 Weekend

The second annual Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 will return to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Friday, May 22, leading up to the 110th Indianapolis 500.

Last year's spectacle drew 85,000 fans in the stands at IMS and 8 million more via livestream. Revving up for its second lap, the race will feature the full fleet of six Oscar Mayer Wienermobiles, who will be competing for the title of Top Dog--this year with a new live nationwide broadcast and the chance for fans to get in on the action.

With each Wienermobile named after a regional hot dog, millions rallied behind their favorites--but it was Slaw Dog who secured last year's victory. This year, Slaw Dog (Southeast) is back to defend its title along with Chi Dog (Midwest), New York Dog (East), Chili Dog (South) and Seattle Dog (Northwest). Following a disappointing performance, the Sonoran Dog is officially relegated due to not cutting the mustard, leaving a spot open for a new regional dog to enter the competition. Race lovers can visit @Wienermobile on Instagram to cast their vote in the first-ever 'Pick Your Dog' Wienie 500 bracket where they can choose from a fresh lineup of seven new regional hot dogs or opt to give Sonoran Dog another shot at qualifying.

"The response to the first Wienie 500 was overwhelming, and we heard the fans loud and clear that they were hungry for more," said Kelsey Rice, brand communications director at Oscar Mayer. "This year, we're supercharging the experience, delivering an even bigger, bolder and more unforgettable event that puts the fans at the forefront. With amplified engagement, intensified rivalries and more surprises in store, we're giving the people what they want – an unparalleled live experience that will leave them craving more."

Many of the beloved traditions from the inaugural Wienie 500 are back for this year's race, including custom Wienermobile decals, Hotdogger racing suits, the iconic "Wiener Song" anthem and finally, the trophy presentation at the "wieners circle" podium--complete with a mustard spray and Borg-Wiener trophy. All part of an experience that only Oscar Mayer can provide, the Wienie 500 is designed to spark smiles and serve up a uniquely delightful race.

For more information, visit ims.com.

Image Courtesy of Penske Entertainment: Titus Slaughter

By SEMA News Editors

WRC Candidate Event Sets Course for Future U.S. Round

The FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), working in collaboration with the FIA, Automobile Competition Committee of the United States (ACCUS) and Podium Events, has taken a step towards a return to the United States with a WRC candidate event to be held this June.

Scheduled for June 11-17, 2026, the candidate event will be assessed against full WRC standards across stages in Tennessee and Kentucky, as part of a structured process that could open the door to a full WRC round from 2027.

The United States last hosted a WRC round in 1988 when the Olympus Rally formed part of the global calendar, according to series officials.

The trial event will be delivered in collaboration with ACCUS and closely evaluated by FIA delegates, covering all aspects of rally delivery, including sporting operations, safety, infrastructure and event promotion, WRC officials said.

Alongside stage and service park assessments, the program will include engagement with the American rally community through a visit to a round of the American Rally Association (ARA) National Championship, as well as meetings with proposed promoter Podium Event Partners, which brings experience from multiple areas of American motor sport.

The move underlines the championship's long-term ambition to expand its global footprint and establish a sustainable presence in one of the world's most significant motorsports markets, series officials said.

"Plans to bring WRC back to the USA have been germinating for some time and the confirmation of this candidate event marks a major milestone," said Rally USA project leader Marc de Jong. "It is a significant step in the championship's much-anticipated return to the United States, after an absence of nearly 40 years."

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the United States represented a key growth opportunity for the championship.

"The United States represents one of the most important growth opportunities for the FIA World Rally Championship," he said. "It is a nation where motorsport is part of the cultural DNA, home to world-class domestic championships and a rapidly growing appetite for global competition.

"Expanding the WRC into North America would not only elevate the championship's global reach, but unite rallying with a knowledgeable, passionate and expanding fanbase in a market where participation and fan engagement continue to accelerate."

For more information, visit wrc.com.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock/ArtiMind

Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 Returns to Indy 500 Weekend

The second annual Oscar Mayer Wienie 500 will return to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Friday, May 22, leading up to the 110th Indianapolis 500.

Last year's spectacle drew 85,000 fans in the stands at IMS and 8 million more via livestream. Revving up for its second lap, the race will feature the full fleet of six Oscar Mayer Wienermobiles, who will be competing for the title of Top Dog--this year with a new live nationwide broadcast and the chance for fans to get in on the action.

With each Wienermobile named after a regional hot dog, millions rallied behind their favorites--but it was Slaw Dog who secured last year's victory. This year, Slaw Dog (Southeast) is back to defend its title along with Chi Dog (Midwest), New York Dog (East), Chili Dog (South) and Seattle Dog (Northwest). Following a disappointing performance, the Sonoran Dog is officially relegated due to not cutting the mustard, leaving a spot open for a new regional dog to enter the competition. Race lovers can visit @Wienermobile on Instagram to cast their vote in the first-ever 'Pick Your Dog' Wienie 500 bracket where they can choose from a fresh lineup of seven new regional hot dogs or opt to give Sonoran Dog another shot at qualifying.

"The response to the first Wienie 500 was overwhelming, and we heard the fans loud and clear that they were hungry for more," said Kelsey Rice, brand communications director at Oscar Mayer. "This year, we're supercharging the experience, delivering an even bigger, bolder and more unforgettable event that puts the fans at the forefront. With amplified engagement, intensified rivalries and more surprises in store, we're giving the people what they want – an unparalleled live experience that will leave them craving more."

Many of the beloved traditions from the inaugural Wienie 500 are back for this year's race, including custom Wienermobile decals, Hotdogger racing suits, the iconic "Wiener Song" anthem and finally, the trophy presentation at the "wieners circle" podium--complete with a mustard spray and Borg-Wiener trophy. All part of an experience that only Oscar Mayer can provide, the Wienie 500 is designed to spark smiles and serve up a uniquely delightful race.

For more information, visit ims.com.

Image Courtesy of Penske Entertainment: Titus Slaughter

By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings.

Canepa

Automotive Upholsterer in Scotts Valley, California

Candidates must have experience in high-end luxury restoration upholstery work with a keen attention to detail and accuracy. Your skills must be top notch and produce extremely high-quality results. Duties include all aspects of interior or upholstery restoration, replacement and repair; from floor to roof, seats, trim and lining.

Parts Advisor in Scotts Valley, California

Key responsibilities of this position including sourcing hard-to-find and special-order parts, placing and tracking orders, developing contingency plans for delayed orders, maintaining parts inventory accuracy and integrity, meeting with suppliers and more.

National Auto Sport Association

Social Media Intern – Remote

The social media intern will work with the marketing department to create content, assist with social media strategy and reporting, and execute supplemental marketing tasks as needed. This role is intended for candidates who desire to work in social media.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock/Volurol

By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Honda, SEMA Garage is hosting an exclusive measuring session next month for the new '26 Honda Prelude.

Scheduled for February 10-11 at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, the measuring session will give participants an exclusive first-look at the highly anticipated vehicle and access to critical dimensions for product development.

Aftermarket manufacturers can reserve a time slot now, but don't wait because space is limited.

Advance RSVP is required. Only RSVP for one session per company.

SEMA Garage Honda Prelude Measuring Session

February 10 - 11, 2026

1577 Valley Vista Dr.

Diamond Bar, CA 91765

View on Google Maps

By Ashley Reyes

Before 1,000hp engines and 3D-printed performance parts, there were the first performance carburetors and custom intake manifolds developed by the first pioneers of the industry. While they might not have known it at the time, these pioneers laid the foundation for successful legacies, pushing the limits of innovation and introducing a rich history of car culture that would soon follow.

Since 1969, the SEMA Hall of Fame has paid tribute to the leaders and legends that grew the automotive specialty-equipment market into the powerhouse that it is today. SEMA is accepting nominations for the Class of 2026 now through Friday, March 13, at www.sema.org/hof.

Breakthroughs Worth Honoring  

SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are not recognized for just one single breakthrough moment, but for consistent leadership over time. Visitors to the Hall of Fame website will find countless stories of leaders who have served on committees, mentored others, advocated for the industry, and guided organizations through periods of growth and change. 

Now 184 members strong, the Hall of Fame continues to honor renowned individuals who have strengthened the industry--from Chris Economaki, a trailblazing motorsports commentator, pit road reporter and journalist, to Walker Evans, known for his pioneering efforts in the off-road market, and Phil Weiand of Weiand Automotive Industries, who got his start producing heads and intake manifolds for Flathead V8s during the early days of hot rodding.

From left to right: Chris Economaki, Walker Evans, Phil Weiand 

The legacies of those inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame will live on forever. If you think of your favorite aftermarket brand, an event that you attend annually, or a product that makes you excited, chances are, a SEMA Hall of Famer had something to do with it.
 

Stories Worth Telling   

The best stories that come out of the industry are often not learned, but experienced. The SEMA Hall of Fame is a successful initiative because of people who took the time to recognize those who impacted their lives and the industry for the better. Whether it was working alongside someone for years or by witnessing leadership in action, it's these firsthand perspectives that SEMA relies on to recognize the industry's most influential contributors.
 

Nominate Today  

As SEMA prepares to select the Hall of Fame Class of 2026, members have an opportunity to help shape how the industry's story is told. Nominations do not need to document an entire career; what matters most is a clear understanding of the nominee's influence and impact. 

If you know someone who has made national and/or international contributions to the automotive specialty-equipment industry; has been involved in the industry and/or SEMA for at least 10 years (15 preferred); and has helped advance technology, professionalism, dignity or the overall growth of the aftermarket, this is your opportunity to help them receive the recognition they deserve. Nominees must be at least 50 years old by the 2026 SEMA Show, or may be any age if deceased, provided the nomination is submitted at least one year posthumously. 

Nominate today at www.sema.org/hof.  

Click here to view all SEMA Hall of Fame members.   

From SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola and SEMA Senior Vice President, Public & Government Affairs Karen Bailey-Chapman: 

What a year 2025 was! SEMA and PRI were victorious in our fight to preserve vehicle choice, protected your ability to access public lands in your vehicles and launched a new effort to keep racetracks open and profitable for the next generation of motorsports enthusiasts.

But there's no time to rest on our laurels: SEMA and PRI are gearing up to again deliver the advocacy that the automotive aftermarket industry and grassroots racing community deserve.

If the past few years were our rebirth as advocates for the automotive aftermarket, 2026 is where we grow and flex.

We are entering a new election cycle, with the November midterms, where control of Congress will be determined. We've established positive relationships with the current administration and congressional leadership, and we have momentum carrying us forward on important issues like the right to modify and land use. In the states, there's a thirst within the car culture to protect collectors' rights and save race tracks; we're taking on that mantle in bigger, bolder ways.

We're going to continue to be a voice for small businesses and a champion of innovation. We'll continue pushing for government policies that aid, not hinder, your ability to bring your great products to market. We'll remain a voice of freedom and evangelize on the ways our nation's car culture is special and worthy of protection.

To help map the road ahead, we're including SEMA and PRI's 2026 Advocacy Agenda. Like last year, this is your baseline for our issues and where our Government Affairs team is focusing.

Our issues are bound to evolve; new ones will emerge. But rest assured, we're engaged in every way. We encourage you to remain connected to our work through SEMA and PRI News and our other communications platforms like SEMA Action (semaHQ.org).

Share this agenda, get involved in the issues that matter most to you, and don't hesitate to reach out when you have a question or concern. Our advocacy is stronger when you're engaged, and we're excited to be on this journey together.

See the full 2026 SEMA and PRI Advocacy Agenda here.

From SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola and SEMA Senior Vice President, Public & Government Affairs Karen Bailey-Chapman: 

What a year 2025 was! SEMA and PRI were victorious in our fight to preserve vehicle choice, protected your ability to access public lands in your vehicles and launched a new effort to keep racetracks open and profitable for the next generation of motorsports enthusiasts.

But there's no time to rest on our laurels: SEMA and PRI are gearing up to again deliver the advocacy that the automotive aftermarket industry and grassroots racing community deserve.

If the past few years were our rebirth as advocates for the automotive aftermarket, 2026 is where we grow and flex.

We are entering a new election cycle, with the November midterms, where control of Congress will be determined. We've established positive relationships with the current administration and congressional leadership, and we have momentum carrying us forward on important issues like the right to modify and land use. In the states, there's a thirst within the car culture to protect collectors' rights and save race tracks; we're taking on that mantle in bigger, bolder ways.

We're going to continue to be a voice for small businesses and a champion of innovation. We'll continue pushing for government policies that aid, not hinder, your ability to bring your great products to market. We'll remain a voice of freedom and evangelize on the ways our nation's car culture is special and worthy of protection.

To help map the road ahead, we're including SEMA and PRI's 2026 Advocacy Agenda. Like last year, this is your baseline for our issues and where our Government Affairs team is focusing.

Our issues are bound to evolve; new ones will emerge. But rest assured, we're engaged in every way. We encourage you to remain connected to our work through SEMA and PRI News and our other communications platforms like SEMA Action (semaHQ.org).

Share this agenda, get involved in the issues that matter most to you, and don't hesitate to reach out when you have a question or concern. Our advocacy is stronger when you're engaged, and we're excited to be on this journey together.

See the full 2026 SEMA and PRI Advocacy Agenda here.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

On the Edge to Euro 7: Facelift for Porsche Panamera

Our man in the cold has successfully captured the first images of what will become the facelifted third-generation Porsche Panamera. Yes, "third-generation"--that is how Porsche has named the current model.

Featuring new bumpers front and rear, exterior changes will be moderate. There is no word yet on what will change beneath the skin, but it is a safe bet that a modernized interior with an updated digital cockpit layout and refreshed tech features will be part of the update. Time will tell whether Porsche intends to adapt its engines to meet the stricter Euro 7 exhaust regulations. For now, the focus remains on highly efficient V8 biturbo engines combined with electric motors (e-hybrids), capable of system outputs well north of 700 hp. It is also likely that Porsche will further develop its active chassis system (PARS).

Turbocharged at Last: The Porsche 911 GT3 RS Facelift Could Get a Mild Turbo

A heavily camouflaged prototype of the revised 992.2 GT3 RS was spotted during cold-weather testing in northern Scandinavia--and the details are revealing. While the front appears virtually unchanged, most of the updates are concentrated at the rear, fueling speculation about what lies beneath.

At the back, the prototype shows clear departures from the current model. The bumper has been redesigned, as has the diffuser, which now features four vertical fins--one more than before. Particularly striking are two additional openings to the left and right of the central pair of tailpipes.

These extra outlets could be functional or decorative, but modified exhaust routing or additional cooling appears more likely. Below the continuous light strip, a previously hidden area suggests another potential air outlet. Taken together, these clues point to significantly increased cooling and exhaust demands--hallmarks of a turbocharged powertrain.

Euro 7 regulations are placing Porsche in a difficult position. GT boss Andreas Preuninger made it clear in October 2024 that without turbocharging or electrification, a future GT3 would not meet the standard in Europe. His timeline: roughly "in two years"--precisely when the 992.2 GT3 RS is expected to reach the market.

In an interview, Preuninger hinted that Porsche has been weighing both hybridization and turbocharging internally--with a clear lean toward the latter. That admission is significant and lends credibility to the current wave of speculation.

For Porsche, this presents a delicate balancing act: preserving GT3 DNA while satisfying increasingly strict regulations. The answer may lie in "gentle" turbocharging--a sharp contrast to the heavy hybridization that has caused market friction for Ferrari.

The rumor mill is now in full swing, with several technically plausible scenarios under discussion. Attention is focused on a version of the new 3.6-liter turbocharged six-cylinder already used in the Carrera GTS t-hybrid.

Realistically, there is strong support for this direction. The added cooling vents, acoustic hints from testing, and Preuninger's own statements form a coherent picture. A lightly electrified, turbocharged six-cylinder could square the circle: Euro 7-compliant, powerful, and lighter than a full hybrid setup.

If the GT3 RS does adopt turbocharging, it would represent more than a technical update--it would mark a conceptual shift. Until now, the dividing line has been clear: GT3 for naturally aspirated purists, GT2 for turbocharged performance.

A turbocharged GT3 RS would blur that distinction and bring the model closer to the future GT2 RS, which is expected to debut with an even more potent plug-in hybrid system based on a 4.0-liter twin-turbo boxer engine producing more than 1,000 hp.

While the powertrain debate continues to stir emotions, the visual updates are less controversial but equally important. The 992.2 GT3 RS will receive further aerodynamic refinement--classic Porsche continuous improvement. Confirmed changes include a redesigned rear bumper with new air ducts, an enlarged diffuser with four vertical fins instead of three, and additional air outlets flanking the tailpipes. Larger tailpipes will add visual muscle, along with new rear lights in the 992.2 design. Reprofiled hood vents and small leading edges at the front complete the update.

Individually, the changes may seem subtle, but they are functionally deliberate. Each serve to improve aerodynamics, cooling, or exhaust management--all signs pointing toward a technically advanced, and potentially turbocharged, future for the GT3 RS.

By Ashley Reyes

One of the most important decisions a hot-rod builder can make is choosing the right customer, as this choice directly impacts workflow, budgets, shop morale and long-term reputation.

To help builders navigate the decision-making process, the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will host a virtual General Membership Meeting & Panel Discussion on Thursday, February 19 at 10:00 a.m. PT focused on how experienced builders evaluate customers, select projects and set expectations for successful builds.

Moderated by Amy Fitzgerald, owner of Cool Hand Customs, the event will feature a panel of respected industry builders: Kellie Oeste, owner of V8 Speed & Resto Shop; Josh Sanders, owner of Sanders Street Rods; and Tim Strange, owner of Strange Motion Rod & Custom. 

Panelists will share real-world insight into customer fit, the build process, budgeting and expectation setting, what defines a successful customer relationship and what ultimately makes a builder say yes to a project.

If you're looking to strengthen your customer selection process, avoid costly missteps and learn how seasoned builders approach project decisions, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Register today.