By Ashley Reyes

SEMA members have only a few days left to register for the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) webinar, "Aftermarket Opportunities in EV," taking place Tuesday, September 16, at 1:00 p.m. EDT/10:00 a.m. PDT.

The electric-vehicle (EV) aftermarket is still in its early stages, presenting major opportunities for early adopters. This session will bring together leading EV experts to share insights and strategic guidance as consumer demand for EVs rises and the aftermarket industry begins to evolve.

Key insights include:

• High-growth areas such as performance upgrades, tuning, fleet optimization and vehicle customization.
• Shifts in consumer preferences and how EV buyers differ from internal combustion engine (ICE) customers.
• Collaboration strategies with OEMs and navigation of emerging regulations.
• Future technologies like software-driven upgrades, connected vehicles and autonomous systems.
• Actionable advice from EV industry experts to help businesses pivot successfully.

Speakers for this webinar include Maverik Knoles, president and co-founder of Legacy EV; Hugo Normand, research and development director at Technologies Ingenext; and Brian Reese, president and CEO of T Sportline.

Designed for manufacturers, retailers, fleet managers and enthusiasts, this session will offer attendees the insights and tools needed to innovate and succeed in the rapidly evolving EV aftermarket. Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

There’s still time to register for the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) General Membership Meeting taking place virtually on Wednesday, September 17, at 11:00 a.m. PDT/2:00 p.m. EDT. 

The meeting is open to current and prospective members and is an opportunity to discover resources designed to help automotive restylers succeed in the specialty-equipment industry. Attendees will hear about events, volunteer opportunities and other resources aimed at supporting business and professional growth. 

The meeting will also include updates about the PRO Cup Challenge and other PRO events taking place at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas. 

PRO membership is open to all SEMA member companies serving the restyling and accessory markets--be they manufacturers, warehouse distributors, manufacturers or restylers and installers. If this sounds like you, don't miss this opportunity to take action in the industry and grow your network by getting more involved. 

Register here. 

By SEMA News Editors

Content Creator Spotlight: Andrew Abouata

Instagram: @cali.comet | @drewboutashoot

Follower count: 7k on Instagram

Focus: Classic cars, photography

SEMA News: How did you get into the automotive industry?

Andrew Abouata: It all began with my first car, a broken '94 Mustang GT. That car got me out to meets and shows, and once COVID hit, my interest shifted to classics. I briefly owned a '64 Fairlane, which gave me my first real taste of vintage style. That eventually led me to my current pride and joy, my '63 Comet. I drive it everywhere and that really solidified my place in the community.

SN: What's your biggest motivator?

AA: Without question, it's my friends and family. We go to shows together all the time, and just being around other builds, projects and passionate people always pushes me to stay motivated and keep creating.

SN: What's been your favorite part of being a part of the automotive community?

AA: The community itself. Almost everyone important in my life has come through cars, and I spend nearly all my free time outside of work with them. It's more than just cars, it's the relationships, stories, and memories built along the way. I have also had an amazing art piece done for my Comet by a great friend @Hey.Ruca.

SN: What is on the horizon for you in 2025? Anything you're looking forward to?

AA: A new chapter for the Comet. A buddy of ours rebuilt a 302 that's going into the car, and after three years of cruising with the inline six, I'm excited for more power. At the same time, the build is evolving into a lowrider-inspired style with pinstripes, wheels and details that will make the Comet stand out even more. Next year is going to be a year of growth and creativity for both me and the Comet.
 

Are you a passionate automotive or racing content creator? Do you want to get involved with SEMA/PRI and spread the word about important advocacy initiatives? Contact Lauren Wilbor from the SEMA Washington, D.C., office at laurenpw@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Content Creator Spotlight: Andrew Abouata

Instagram: @cali.comet | @drewboutashoot

Follower count: 7k on Instagram

Focus: Classic cars, photography

SEMA News: How did you get into the automotive industry?

Andrew Abouata: It all began with my first car, a broken '94 Mustang GT. That car got me out to meets and shows, and once COVID hit, my interest shifted to classics. I briefly owned a '64 Fairlane, which gave me my first real taste of vintage style. That eventually led me to my current pride and joy, my '63 Comet. I drive it everywhere and that really solidified my place in the community.

SN: What's your biggest motivator?

AA: Without question, it's my friends and family. We go to shows together all the time, and just being around other builds, projects and passionate people always pushes me to stay motivated and keep creating.

SN: What's been your favorite part of being a part of the automotive community?

AA: The community itself. Almost everyone important in my life has come through cars, and I spend nearly all my free time outside of work with them. It's more than just cars, it's the relationships, stories, and memories built along the way. I have also had an amazing art piece done for my Comet by a great friend @Hey.Ruca.

SN: What is on the horizon for you in 2025? Anything you're looking forward to?

AA: A new chapter for the Comet. A buddy of ours rebuilt a 302 that's going into the car, and after three years of cruising with the inline six, I'm excited for more power. At the same time, the build is evolving into a lowrider-inspired style with pinstripes, wheels and details that will make the Comet stand out even more. Next year is going to be a year of growth and creativity for both me and the Comet.
 

Are you a passionate automotive or racing content creator? Do you want to get involved with SEMA/PRI and spread the word about important advocacy initiatives? Contact Lauren Wilbor from the SEMA Washington, D.C., office at laurenpw@sema.org.

🛑A proposed federal airspace grab threatens off-roading and events at Johnson Valley, California, like King of the Hammers. We're not letting it happen. Public comments must be submitted by September 15.

👉 Send your letter now. It takes 30 seconds.

-From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

🛑A proposed federal airspace grab threatens off-roading and events at Johnson Valley, California, like King of the Hammers. We're not letting it happen. Public comments must be submitted by September 15.

👉 Send your letter now. It takes 30 seconds.

-From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

By SEMA News Editors

2024 PRO Cup Challenge Winner Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh (right) and People’s Choice Award Winner Auto Trim Restyling (left)

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has announced the six automotive restyling shops that will compete in its coveted PRO Cup Challenge at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas. The finalists are: Auto Additions Inc., Auto Trim Restyling, Automotive Concepts, DV8 Customs LLC, MARS of Billings and Sun Line Sunroofs. 

Taking place in the West Hall in the PRO booth #50197, the PRO Cup Challenge celebrates the creativity, craftsmanship and innovation of the restyling industry while demonstrating the value of working with manufacturers and dealers to offer market-ready vehicle accessory packages.  

The competition challenges finalists to: 

• Design an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. 
• Deliver a dealer-ready build, with criteria of no more than 40 labor hours per package installed and a wholesale cost under $12,500. 

"The PRO Cup Challenge provides the best opportunity for automotive restylers to showcase their skills and talents on the industry's global stage," said Kevin Gillis, PRO chair. "From stylish designs to accessory upgrades that enhance convenience and comfort, this year's competition will shine a light on builds designed to excite enthusiasts and deliver greater profit to dealers." 

Bringing its proven expertise back to the competition is Auto Trim Restyling, named the 2024 PRO Cup Challenge's People's Choice Award winner for its customized '24 Toyota Land Cruiser. Meanwhile, newcomers DV8 Customs and Sun Line Sunroofs will make their PRO Cup Challenge debut, showcasing their vision and talent alongside other great shops. 

"Attendees can expect a build that shows off our style, creativity and attention to detail," said Nick Svec, managing partner at DV8 Customs. "We do have a theme locked down and are currently in the creative process of really making it come to life."  

Building on the momentum of past competitions, the 2025 PRO Cup Challenge will feature parts and accessories from leading manufacturers in the restyling realm. While buyers can visit the West Hall and see new products from exhibitors' booths directly, the PRO Cup Challenge brings their products together in real-world applications, demonstrating how their parts can be used to create stunning, marketable vehicle customizations.   

A panel of expert judges will select the PRO Cup Challenge winner based on vehicle marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity and profitability. Showgoers can also vote for their favorite build, recognizing it with the People's Choice Award. Winners will be announced at the PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 5, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. PST in West Hall, booth #50197.  

For more information on the PRO Cup Challenge, visit www.semapcc.com.  

Qualified SEMA Show attendees are encouraged to register now to secure discounted rates and maximize their ROI. Registration is $75 through Sept. 26. Hotel reservations at guaranteed low rates are available exclusively through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.   

By Ashley Reyes

The Student Program Networking Breakfast is returning to the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, and exhibiting companies are invited to participate. 

Set for Thursday, November 6, from 8:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m. PST in the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall, the event will connect SEMA Show exhibitors with hundreds of passionate automotive students eager to launch their careers. 

Top reasons to participate:  

• Gain access to a valuable recruitment pipeline 
• Expose your brand to hundreds of students pursuing automotive careers 
• Share advice with the next generation of industry talent 
• Build relationships with future industry professionals 

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

Student Information  

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

Faculty members can submit a group registration at this link. Students over the age of 21 attending by themselves can apply here. 

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

By SEMA News Editors
 

Mercedes-Benz USA Appoints Nicolette Lambrechts as VP of Customer Services

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) has announced the appointment of Nicolette Lambrechts as vice president of Customer Services, succeeding Jee-Sop Kim, effective November 1, 2025. Lambrechts will join the MBUSA executive team in Atlanta, Georgia.

"We are pleased to welcome Nicolette back to the North American leadership team. Her global perspective, extensive experience with the brand and proven leadership acumen positions her well to further elevate the customer experience and strengthen connections with our dealer network and customers throughout the ownership journey," said Adam Chamberlain, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA.

Lambrechts joined Mercedes-Benz South Africa in 2001 as a Graduate Trainee. In 2002, she took over the position of sales planner for Chrysler Jeep and was promoted in 2004 to distribution and logistics manager for commercial vehicles. Between 2008 and 2014, Lambrechts held key leadership positions as the national sales manager and brand manager for Mercedes-Benz Vans in South Africa.

In 2014, Lambrechts was appointed managing director of the Vans Division for Mercedes-Benz South Africa, and in 2017, she became managing director of Vans for Mercedes-Benz Canada. From there, she joined the MBUSA Vans team in 2019 as general manager, Sales, and was subsequently appointed to the role of managing director of Vans for MBUSA in 2021.

In May 2023, Lambrechts transitioned to Mercedes-Benz global headquarters in Stuttgart as the head of Region Overseas for Mercedes-Benz Vans. Since July 1, 2024, she served as the head of Vans Global Sales and Marketing Operations.

Porsche Previews Inductive Charging With Cayenne Electric Prototype

Porsche is set to introduce inductive charging technology with the upcoming Cayenne Electric, debuting at the 2025 Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung (IAA) Mobility show in Munich. Using a wireless floor plate, owners can charge at home without cables or plugs simply by parking over the plate. The system delivers up to 11 kW and will be integrated into the My Porsche app for monitoring and scheduling. The Cayenne Electric will automatically lower to optimize alignment, with built-in safety features like motion detection and foreign-object interruption. Porsche Wireless Charging launches first in Europe in 2026, with other markets to follow. Want to see it for yourself? A prototype with fluorescent electroluminescent paint, which glows when electricity flows, is on display at the IAA Show, Tuesday, September 9, through Sunday, September 14.

I-CAR Announces 2025 Board of Directors Election Results and Governance Updates

I-CAR® (the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair), one of the collision repair industry's leaders in technical educational programming, related technical services and industry talent solutions, announced the results of its 2025 Board of Directors election.

I-CAR regular members approved the election of four representatives:

• Ryan Downs, Crash Champions: Elected to a three-year term representing the collision repair segment (At-Large)
• Paul Krauss, Caliber Collision (incumbent): Re-elected to a three-year term representing the collision repair segment (Large MSO)
• Laura Lozano, Contra Costa College: Elected to a three-year term representing the education segment
• Ed Mondragon, State Farm Insurance: Elected to a three-year term representing the insurance segment

In addition, the I-CAR Board of Directors released a letter from Chair Jennifer Goforth detailing the approval of a bylaws update. For more information, visit I-CAR.com.

ITOCHU Invests in MOTER Technologies to Advance Smart Insurance Solutions

ITOCHU Corporation has taken an equity stake in MOTER Technologies, a California-based developer of real-time, in-vehicle insurance software. The partnership combines MOTER's edge-computing insurance platforms with ITOCHU's global network, with the goal of accelerating personalized insurance solutions that adapt to connected and autonomous vehicle technologies.

The collaboration will expand MOTER's OEM-branded programs in the United States, enhance reinsurance through ITOCHU's subsidiaries and support new service development in health and mobility. Both companies said the alliance will help create safer, more sustainable insurance and financial models for the evolving automotive industry.

For more information, visit the ITOCHU website.

By SEMA News Editors

The best builds. The boldest customizations. Do you have what it takes to be the next Battle of the Builders champion? There's only one way to find out!

Every year, the best builds and the boldest customizations face off in the industry's leading vehicle competition to see who will be crowned the next Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish champion. 

Applications are open for the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish at semabotb.com. All builders with a vehicle displayed at the 2025 SEMA Show may enter the competition at semabotb.com before the deadline on October 17, 2025.

The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB) will recognize class champions as the best in four categories:

• Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck
• 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road
• Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic
• Young Guns

Only one of the class champions will be crowned the overall BOTB champion during this year's SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas.

Battle of the Builders Young Guns Category

Supporting and inspiring young builders is crucial to the future of the automotive specialty-equipment market. The BOTB Young Guns category is designed to encourage young builders to pursue their passions and shine a light on the up-and-coming builders.

"Young Guns" is a designation within the overall BOTB competition to recognize builders who are under the age of 29 (as of November 7, 2025). Those who meet the criteria and have selected the Young Guns category on the online application are eligible to participate. In addition, all eligible Young Guns applicants who have submitted their online application before August 15, 2025, may be selected to compete in one or more virtual regional Golden Ticket competitions for the chance to win a Golden Ticket SEMA Show prize package. The eligible Young Guns applicants who have been selected for this will be contacted separately by the BOTB operations team via email or phone.

For more information and to apply, visit semabotb.com. For the complete BOTB terms and conditions, visit here.

Attendee registration for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas, is now available online here. Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $75 per person through Friday, September 26. Starting September 27, the rate increases to $100 for both online and onsite registration. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX.

For updates on SEMA Fest, the one-day musical and motorsports festival on Friday, November 7, or to purchase "SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public" tickets, visit semafest.com.