By SEMA News Editors

Content Creator Spotlight: Kaikea Wilinski 

Instagram: @ranchero_racing_co._ 

Facebook: @ranchero_racing_co._

Follower count: 22.5k on Instagram

Focus: Hot-rodding, motorsports, surf culture, Mustang builds 

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

Kaikea Wilinski: What really got me into my passion for cars was my grandfather. His name was Henry "Hank the Crank" Bechtloff, and he was once the world's largest crankshaft manufacturer and the "godfather" of the performance crankshaft. He supplied some of the most powerful and durable cranks on the market. He sold not only to hot rodders, but he also became a significant influence in motorsports. When drivers used his crankshaft, they knew it meant winning.

His career spanned more than 50 years and was involved in NASCAR, IndyCar, sports cars, GT racing and even Formula 1. So as a little kid who grew up watching the races with my grandpa, his own passion for the automotive industry was reflected in my own upbringing. His compassion and support was the driving force behind my career and education, and if not for him, I would not be the ambitious and passionate individual I have become today.

This is why I have included him in some of the videos documenting my build because I'd like to recognize him as one of the pioneers of the industry. He unfortunately passed away a few years ago and his business unfortunately did not last, but I am determined to continue keeping his legacy alive by sharing his story. 

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

KW: As someone who regularly attends car meetups and club functions, having that sense of belonging is an amazing feeling. You get to enjoy your passion with other fellow enthusiasts and aren't afraid to share your story with others. It doesn't matter who we may be; we are all united by this love for cars.

Plus, if problems arise, they are the first ones to go to your house and bring a set of tools to get you back on the road. These are the types of friends who aren't afraid to get their hands dirty to help out another car owner. Just the other day, my car battery died and, of course, someone in the club had jumper cables in their trunk. We all want to feel like we belong and being a part of such a large, tight-knit community of like-minded individuals is why I'll always love being a part of this culture. 

SN: As a content creator in the industry, how do you hope to make an impact on your audience?  

KW: I hope my content is engaging for my audience. Going out to a number of motorsports events, posting the progress I've made on my own project cars and paying tribute to the past are what my content is focused on, and I hope people are enjoying this automotive lifestyle.

Also, I have so far been telling stories about automotive performance history by showing the process of my current Mustang build. It is a tribute to the legends of engine performance, and I have been explaining this through some of the engine parts I'm using that represent specific manufacturers and engine builders of the past. Many of our industry leaders and innovators have been forgotten with time, and I feel it is necessary to keep their stories alive and heard for the next generations to appreciate and respect. 

SN: What's been the biggest moment of your career thus far? 

KW: My biggest moment in my life in regard to my content creator career was being able to visit my state's capital to advocate for SEMA and sit in meetings with lawmakers to voice my concerns directly with them about how to protect car owners. It was an amazing feeling to know that I am being heard.

Seeing firsthand how our legislative process works and how much of an impact political advocacy makes on the state's legislative agenda is something I have always wanted to experience. It is amazing to be able to meet and speak with the legislators I voted for and I am grateful to SEMA for allowing me the opportunity to see a behind-the-scenes look and their support of the initiatives affecting the car community.

This is why advocacy is very important, because without a means to voice our frustrations to the people we trust, we may not be able to protect our rights as not only car owners but also as citizens. Constant engagement is crucial for our democracy, and I feel obligated to speak freely about why car owners and advocates need to be represented in the legislative process.

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: Kaikea Wilinski 

Instagram: @ranchero_racing_co._ 

Facebook: @ranchero_racing_co._

Follower count: 22.5k on Instagram

Focus: Hot-rodding, motorsports, surf culture, Mustang builds 

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

Kaikea Wilinski: What really got me into my passion for cars was my grandfather. His name was Henry "Hank the Crank" Bechtloff, and he was once the world's largest crankshaft manufacturer and the "godfather" of the performance crankshaft. He supplied some of the most powerful and durable cranks on the market. He sold not only to hot rodders, but he also became a significant influence in motorsports. When drivers used his crankshaft, they knew it meant winning.

His career spanned more than 50 years and was involved in NASCAR, IndyCar, sports cars, GT racing and even Formula 1. So as a little kid who grew up watching the races with my grandpa, his own passion for the automotive industry was reflected in my own upbringing. His compassion and support was the driving force behind my career and education, and if not for him, I would not be the ambitious and passionate individual I have become today.

This is why I have included him in some of the videos documenting my build because I'd like to recognize him as one of the pioneers of the industry. He unfortunately passed away a few years ago and his business unfortunately did not last, but I am determined to continue keeping his legacy alive by sharing his story. 

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

KW: As someone who regularly attends car meetups and club functions, having that sense of belonging is an amazing feeling. You get to enjoy your passion with other fellow enthusiasts and aren't afraid to share your story with others. It doesn't matter who we may be; we are all united by this love for cars.

Plus, if problems arise, they are the first ones to go to your house and bring a set of tools to get you back on the road. These are the types of friends who aren't afraid to get their hands dirty to help out another car owner. Just the other day, my car battery died and, of course, someone in the club had jumper cables in their trunk. We all want to feel like we belong and being a part of such a large, tight-knit community of like-minded individuals is why I'll always love being a part of this culture. 

SN: As a content creator in the industry, how do you hope to make an impact on your audience?  

KW: I hope my content is engaging for my audience. Going out to a number of motorsports events, posting the progress I've made on my own project cars and paying tribute to the past are what my content is focused on, and I hope people are enjoying this automotive lifestyle.

Also, I have so far been telling stories about automotive performance history by showing the process of my current Mustang build. It is a tribute to the legends of engine performance, and I have been explaining this through some of the engine parts I'm using that represent specific manufacturers and engine builders of the past. Many of our industry leaders and innovators have been forgotten with time, and I feel it is necessary to keep their stories alive and heard for the next generations to appreciate and respect. 

SN: What's been the biggest moment of your career thus far? 

KW: My biggest moment in my life in regard to my content creator career was being able to visit my state's capital to advocate for SEMA and sit in meetings with lawmakers to voice my concerns directly with them about how to protect car owners. It was an amazing feeling to know that I am being heard.

Seeing firsthand how our legislative process works and how much of an impact political advocacy makes on the state's legislative agenda is something I have always wanted to experience. It is amazing to be able to meet and speak with the legislators I voted for and I am grateful to SEMA for allowing me the opportunity to see a behind-the-scenes look and their support of the initiatives affecting the car community.

This is why advocacy is very important, because without a means to voice our frustrations to the people we trust, we may not be able to protect our rights as not only car owners but also as citizens. Constant engagement is crucial for our democracy, and I feel obligated to speak freely about why car owners and advocates need to be represented in the legislative process.

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

SEMA Quick Polls are opportunities for the industry to give us feedback on current topics and help drive the work that SEMA does. We work better with input from our members.

Will you help us understand the benefits landscape? Please take our latest three-to-five-minute SEMA Quick Poll. 

This short poll will help us get a pulse check on the market, and we will report the findings back here in a few weeks. The quick poll will only take a few minutes and it will help us understand your insights into key topics. 

Click the button below or click HERE to take the SEMA Quick Poll.

Also, check out our latest industry report, the "2025 SEMA Market Report," for the latest data on the size and scope of the specialty-equipment market.  You can access all our market research reports at: www.sema.org/research.

Your answers to a SEMA Quick Poll are anonymous and will only be reported as combined totals with all other responses. We appreciate your support for our efforts to better understand the market. 

By SEMA News Editors

Hyundai Motor Company and General Motors (GM) have announced plans for their first five co-developed vehicles, marking a significant milestone in their previously announced strategic collaboration.

The two companies will co-develop four vehicles for the Central and South American market, including a compact SUV, car and pick-up, as well as a mid-size pick-up, all with the flexibility to use either internal combustion or hybrid propulsion systems. Hyundai and GM will also co-develop an electric commercial van for North America.

Hyundai and GM expect sales of the co-developed vehicles to be more than 800,000 vehicles a year once production is fully scaled.

GM will lead the development of the mid-size truck platform, while Hyundai will lead on the compact vehicle and electric van.

The two companies will share common platforms and develop unique interiors and exteriors consistent with their respective brands.

Design and engineering work is underway on the new vehicles for the Central and South American markets, which will launch in 2028. The electric commercial van will be manufactured in the U.S. as early as 2028.

"Hyundai's strategic collaboration with GM will help us continue to deliver value and choice to our customers across multiple vehicle segments and markets," said José Muñoz, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company. "Our combined scale in North and South America helps us to more efficiently provide our customers more of what they want--beautifully designed, high-quality, safety-focused vehicles with technology they appreciate."

Shilpan Amin, GM senior VP and global chief procurement and supply chain officer, said the vehicles announced today are targeted at the largest segments in the Central and South American markets, as well as the commercial segment in North America.

"By partnering together, GM and Hyundai will bring more choice to our customers faster and at lower cost," Amin said. "These first co-developed vehicles clearly demonstrate how GM and Hyundai will leverage our complementary strengths and combined scale."

The two companies also plan joint sourcing initiatives in North and South America for materials, transport and logistics. Further areas for potential joint operations include raw materials, components and complex systems.

Hyundai Motor and GM also agreed to explore collaboration on low-carbon emissions steel as part of their commitment to sustainable manufacturing.

Following the signing of a framework agreement in September 2024, the companies continue to assess additional joint vehicle development programs for global markets, as well as collaboration opportunities across propulsion systems, including internal combustion engines, hybrid, battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell technologies.

For more information, visit gm.com and hyundai.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA+, the membership for anyone who has a passion for cars, trucks, racing or wrenching, is the best way to stay connected with the car community and offers an all-access pass to some of the aftermarket's premier events.

That includes FuelFest, the nationwide celebration of horsepower, music and family, which is offering an exclusive discount for SEMA+ members when it pulls into Utah State Fair Park in Salt Lake City later this month for a full day of high-octane action.

Access your SEMA+ member benefit portal today to receive 10% off general admission, car registration and premium car registration tickets, and join your fellow gearheads on August 16 in Salt Lake City for a day of drag racing, drifting, special guest appearances and all kinds of non-stop action.

FuelFest - Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, Utah | August 16, 2025

Utah State Fair Park

Already a member?  

👉 Login to claim your discounts on these exclusive offers. 

Not yet a member? 

Join for just $40/year ($3.33/month) and get: 

✔ Discounts on events, parts and brands. 

✔ Access to members-only perks. 

✔ Membership to SEMA's first-ever car and truck club. 

Don't miss out on these epic events and stay tuned for more event announcements coming your way. Whether you work on cars and trucks or just love them, SEMA+ is for you. 

Join now → sema.org/plus 

By SEMA News Editors

Attendees at the 2025 SEMA Show, held November 4-7 in Las Vegas, will have several opportunities to develop new skills, connect with industry leaders, and foster business strategies as part of this year's SEMA Education Program. The fully reimagined lineup of free, expert-led training sessions will bring value and insight to the thousands of industry professionals in attendance at the world's leading automotive trade show.

Hosted in the centrally located, recently renovated North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, the SEMA Education Program will run from Tuesday, November 4, through Thursday, November 6, offering a dynamic experience that complements the high-energy learning environment experienced on the Show floor.

"We invite all attendees and exhibitors to advance their professional and business growth during the Show," said Gary Vigil, SEMA senior manager of professional development. "The SEMA Show has always provided learning and self-advancement opportunities through education, and this year we are offering free sessions within eight education tracks to address the key subjects that are influencing the aftermarket today."

Education Tracks 

The eight education tracks categorize sessions according to subject matter, allowing attendees to easily find programs that fit their professional interests:

• Aftermarket Updates and Future Trends: Explore the current state of the specialty-equipment market and the long-/short-term impacts of top trends.
• Emerging and Executive Leadership: The Dale Carnegie Organization will illustrate how to listen and communicate with a workforce that encompasses differing generations, and the SEMA Women's Leadership Symposium will empower leaders with the skills, mindset and strategies needed to drive exceptional performance.
• Inside the Shop: Technicians, shop managers and builders will discuss trends and challenges that shop owners currently face.
• Legislative and Regulatory: Learn about current changes and misconceptions in emissions compliance. Discover how to manage risks, ensure compliance and drive business success.
• Sales and Marketing: Understand how to engage your audience using Instagram, YouTube and Facebook, and gain insights from top industry sales and marketing experts.
• Small Business Strategy: Find hacks and tools to help grow your business. Learn how to leverage AI, use cloud computing and entrepreneurial operating systems (EOS), or run a functional family business while avoiding a feud.
• Talent Management: Turn your team into a well-run machine by learning how to hire and retain young talent through training, management and motivation.
• Vehicle Technology: Stay up-to-date on the latest changes in advanced fuels and powertrains, suspension technology and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Partnered Programs

Training sessions, both free and fee-based, from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), Tire Industry Association (TIA) and Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will broaden the range of specialized courses offered at the 2025 SEMA Show:

• I-CAR will host courses on MIG welding, safety protocols for working on electric vehicles with high-voltage systems and modifying or repairing cars with ADAS functionalities.
• TIA will offer sessions that can help tire retailers protect themselves from liability, navigate the current employment market and retain talent.
• SCRS will show attendees how to put their business on a path of maximum efficiency, gain an online presence and identify incoming trends and technologies.

"The SEMA Education Program embodies our commitment to empowering the automotive community through knowledge, innovation and collaboration," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "With free, expert-led sessions tailored to every corner of the industry, this year's program is more dynamic than ever."

Sign up for education sessions while registering for the Show or log into your Registration Resource Center to add sessions to your agenda. For more information about the 2025 SEMA Show Education Program and to get involved, visit www.semashow.com/education. For information about the 2025 SEMA Show or to register, visit www.semashow.com. To view this year's floorplan, log on to www.semashow.com/floorplan.  

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

President Trump's August 1 deadline for new deals with international trade partners has come and gone. Here's where things stand, with analysis of the impact on the automotive aftermarket industry.

• The White House issued a July 31 Executive Order expanding tariffs on a broad range of foreign goods, including automotive components central to the specialty aftermarket industry.  
• While several notable trading partners—most notably the European Union (EU), Japan, South Korea, Indonesia and the Philippines—have recently secured trade deals with the U.S. that lock in lower tariff rates, many other countries now face increases in duties effective August 7 that are likely to affect supply chains and pricing.  
• The new tariff rates apply to goods entered for consumption or withdrawn from a warehouse for consumption on or after August 7, at 12:01 a.m. (EDT), unless the product is in its final mode of transit before that date and is withdrawn for consumption before October 5. 

The White House issued a separate Executive Order that increases the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) fentanyl tariff on Canadian exports noted covered by USMCA from 25% to 35% (effective on August 1). The order also adds a 40% additional tariff for goods that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) determines have been transshipped to another country to evade tariffs.  

Below is a list of countries subject to recent tariff rate changes. 

^{*Subject to a separate IEEPA tariff.
**Additional 40% IEEPA tariff.
***Effective August 1.
****No tariff added if the U.S. tariff rate is over 15%; anything under 15% is raised to 15%.}

Copper Tariff Increase 

The U.S.  imposed a 50% tariff on "all imports of semi-finished copper products and intensive copper derivative products," effective 12:01 a.m. Eastern on August 1.  

• Click here for CBP's list of the tariff codes subject to the 50% Section 232 tariff on copper. The list is at the bottom of the page in a Word document titled "CopperHTSlist073125." 

U.S. Appeals Court Reviews IEEPA Tariffs

Legal questions surrounding the administration's authority to impose IEEPA tariffs continue to develop. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit heard oral arguments on July 31 in the case where judges questioned the federal government's use of IEEPA.  

• It's unclear when the court will issue a decision, although it's anticipated that the U.S. Supreme Court will make the final decision on IEEPA. The contested tariffs remain in force pending appeal. Any decision to invalidate them could force a realignment of customs penalties or trigger refund obligations, particularly if parts were misclassified or duties were improperly layered. 

Questions? Contact Juan Mejia, SEMA's senior manager for federal government affairs, at jmejia@sema.org.  

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

President Trump's August 1 deadline for new deals with international trade partners has come and gone. Here's where things stand, with analysis of the impact on the automotive aftermarket industry.

• The White House issued a July 31 Executive Order expanding tariffs on a broad range of foreign goods, including automotive components central to the specialty aftermarket industry.  
• While several notable trading partners—most notably the European Union (EU), Japan, South Korea, Indonesia and the Philippines—have recently secured trade deals with the U.S. that lock in lower tariff rates, many other countries now face increases in duties effective August 7 that are likely to affect supply chains and pricing.  
• The new tariff rates apply to goods entered for consumption or withdrawn from a warehouse for consumption on or after August 7, at 12:01 a.m. (EDT), unless the product is in its final mode of transit before that date and is withdrawn for consumption before October 5. 

The White House issued a separate Executive Order that increases the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) fentanyl tariff on Canadian exports noted covered by USMCA from 25% to 35% (effective on August 1). The order also adds a 40% additional tariff for goods that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) determines have been transshipped to another country to evade tariffs.  

Below is a list of countries subject to recent tariff rate changes. 

^{*Subject to a separate IEEPA tariff.
**Additional 40% IEEPA tariff.
***Effective August 1.
****No tariff added if the U.S. tariff rate is over 15%; anything under 15% is raised to 15%.}

Copper Tariff Increase 

The U.S.  imposed a 50% tariff on "all imports of semi-finished copper products and intensive copper derivative products," effective 12:01 a.m. Eastern on August 1.  

• Click here for CBP's list of the tariff codes subject to the 50% Section 232 tariff on copper. The list is at the bottom of the page in a Word document titled "CopperHTSlist073125." 

U.S. Appeals Court Reviews IEEPA Tariffs

Legal questions surrounding the administration's authority to impose IEEPA tariffs continue to develop. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit heard oral arguments on July 31 in the case where judges questioned the federal government's use of IEEPA.  

• It's unclear when the court will issue a decision, although it's anticipated that the U.S. Supreme Court will make the final decision on IEEPA. The contested tariffs remain in force pending appeal. Any decision to invalidate them could force a realignment of customs penalties or trigger refund obligations, particularly if parts were misclassified or duties were improperly layered. 

Questions? Contact Juan Mejia, SEMA's senior manager for federal government affairs, at jmejia@sema.org.  

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA's nine council and network communities are accepting nominations for their prestigious awards that will be presented at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas. Industry members who would like to recognize a leading company or individual who has made exceptional contributions to their niche industry segment during the past year can submit their nominations at sema.org/cn-awards.  

Celebrating businesses, leaders, innovators, mentors and more, SEMA Council and Network Awards not only spotlight achievements made in various pillars of the industry but provide a platform in which members are honored for their unique strengths, dedication to excellence and unwavering passion that drives the automotive aftermarket forward.   

Below are tips for submitting a standout nomination:   

1. Be specific. Avoid broad statements like "they're a great leader" or "they work hard." Review the award criteria and list the nominee's specific achievements that align with the goal of the award. For example, was there a specific product that they helped innovate or launch? What initiative did they lead that improved their industry segment? Were there specific people they helped mentor? Providing concrete examples will help the nominee stand out. 
    
2. Highlight their impact. Share what makes nominee a hero of their segment. Describe the state of the industry before their contributions were made, and where the industry is now because of them. Highlighting their impact will make the nomination memorable and meaningful.  
    
3. Tie their contributions to the mission of the Council or Network. SEMA Councils and Networks exist to advance, promote and protect the industry segments and communities that they represent. Share how your nominee's efforts supported the broader goals of the council or network. Emphasize any volunteerism or advocacy efforts that contributed to the council or network's growth and reach.  

Award winners will be announced and honored at each Council's and Network's reception or lunch at the 2025 SEMA Show. These celebrations bring members together to network and celebrate standout contributors in their respective industries. With the 2025 SEMA Show quickly approaching, now is the time to make sure that your nominations are submitted for consideration.  

To view the list of SEMA Council and Network awards and submit your nomination, visit sema.org/cn-awards.  

By SEMA News Editors

The performance aftermarket and motorsports industry are mourning the loss of an off-road pioneer. Walker Evans, 86, passed away on August 3 following health complications. A 2022 SEMA Hall of Fame inductee and one of off-road racing's most decorated drivers, Evans was a five-time Baja 1000 winner and a 21-time championship title holder with more than 150 wins to his name. His legacy was forged behind the wheel and under the hood--collaborating with automakers like Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge, and later founding Walker Evans Racing, which became a vital supplier of performance shocks and wheels for the off-road and powersports industries.

Walker Evans was inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame in 2022. Hear from Evans as he recounts his early career and Walker Evans Racing.

Evans helped introduce off-road racing to mainstream audiences, competing in both long-distance desert events and short-course series across the United States, from Riverside, California, to Crandon, Wisconsin. He also played a role in launching NASCAR's Truck Series before returning to his off-road roots. His business acumen and passion for innovation influenced countless racers and entrepreneurs alike. Evans is survived by his wife, Phyllis, and son, Evan.

Evans lived for performance and pushed the limits of possibility. His contributions--on the track and in the shop--leave a lasting legacy for generations of motorsports professionals and fans.

Walker Evans was inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame in 2022. Seen here is the tribute video shown at the induction ceremony.