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. 

By SEMA News Editors

The performance aftermarket and motorsports industry are mourning the loss of brand ambassador and racer, Chris Raschke. Raschke, 60, passed away August 3 following a crash at Bonneville Speed Week in Tooele County, Utah, while piloting the Speed Demon streamliner. The Speed Demon team recently achieved a best run of 459.734 mph last year and was seeking a historic 500-mph record attempt in 2025. Officials from the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) and local authorities are investigating the accident and its cause, according to reports. SCTA also posted the following press release:

At approximately 3:03 p.m. MT today, driver Chris Raschke, age 60, was attempting a speed record and lost control of his landspeed vehicle at approximately the 2.5-mile. Chris was treated by medical professionals at the scene. Unfortunately, Chris passed away from his injuries. The cause of the incident is currently under investigation.

Known for his technical brilliance, Raschke was a staple in both landspeed racing and the engine-building community. He joined ARP in 1996 and rose to become the director of sales and marketing, helping shape the company's reputation as one of the most trusted names in fasteners. He had also recently taken over as Speed Demon's full-time driver after the passing of his close friend and industry icon George Poteet. The Speed Demon is a piston-powered landspeed vehicle powered by a twin-turbocharged 555-cubic-inch Chevy.

More than a racer or a brand ambassador, Raschke was a mentor, educator and unrelenting student of speed. Whether in the pits, at trade shows or on a seminar stage, he lit up the room with energy, generosity and deep technical know-how. He is survived by his wife, Connie Patterson, and children Kenny, Kristoph and Carly, and grandchildren.

SEMA sends its condolences to the Raschke family.
 

By Turn 14 Distribution

Turn 14 Distribution is officially at the halfway mark of our 2025 GRIDLIFE partnership, and the momentum has never been stronger. From the first green flag at Carolina Motorsports Park to the high-speed thrills at Road America, the Turn 14 Partner Lounge has become a home base for our customers and partners alike. 

For the uninitiated, GRIDLIFE is more than just a race series. It's a full-throttle motorsports festival that fuses competitive racing, high-energy music, and an unmatched car culture. With time attack, drifting, HPDE sessions, and an inclusive, community-driven atmosphere, GRIDLIFE events deliver an immersive experience for both drivers and fans.

The partnership with GRIDLIFE is no accident. This strategic alignment is rooted deep in Turn 14 Distribution's understanding of the industry and its customers. GRIDLIFE is the leading grassroots event series, blending energy, performance, and culture into an experience that defines today's automotive community. It's a natural fit for Turn 14 Distribution, and exactly the kind of environment where the brand wants to show up and make an impact.
 

To complement that energy and reward the partners and customers who help drive Turn 14 Distribution's success, the company introduced the Turn 14 Partner Lounge. This exclusive hospitality space has already welcomed over 100 customers and dealers per race, and Turn 14 Distribution is only getting started. Specifically located in the paddock to deliver premium views, this space features catered breakfast, handcrafted coffee from an on-site barista, and daily lunch service throughout the event. This is an ideal hub for staying close to the action while enjoying a first-class experience.

GETTING STARTED

GRIDLIFE kicked off the 2025 season at Carolina Motorsports Park, with competitors and spectators eager to come out of winter hibernation. The racing action was intense, as track conditions varied wildly through the day with cool mornings giving way to warm, southern afternoons, and, of course, the occasional afternoon thunderstorm. The Turn 14 Partner Lounge debuted with a clear view of Turn 1, and the livestream on a big screen to follow the action around the track. The lounge provided welcome morning warmth in the form of hot coffee, espresso, and assorted handcrafted beverages from a skilled barista, the owner of Sidecart Coffee in central Florida, who will be present for every round this season. As the morning dew gave way to afternoon sun, the drinks turned iced and the tent provided welcome shade for Turn 14 Distribution's customers and partners. 
 

Next up, GRIDLIFE returned to Road Atlanta for a Special Stage event held in conjunction with Formula DRIFT. GRIDLIFE wheel-to-wheel and Time Attack racing classes and intense exhibition drifting filled the full course through the morning and early afternoon, transitioning to Formula DRIFT's competition at The Keyhole to round out the day. Turn 14 Distribution guests were treated to a suite in The Tower, making for an unforgettable stay and the perfect way to enjoy the weekend. 

At Midwest Festival, where it all started 12 years ago, the Turn 14 Partner Lounge was alive with energy. Thousands of fans descended on Gingerman Raceway for a weekend packed with music, motorsports, and community, and the lounge quickly became the go-to retreat for Turn 14 Distribution's customers and partners. Positioned trackside between Turn 1 and Turn 2, the Partner Lounge offered unbeatable views as drivers flew down the straight and started drifting sideways from turn to turn. Guests lined the edge of the tent, just feet from the action, taking it all in from one of the most exciting spots on the circuit.
 

Mid-Ohio delivered plenty of drama with shifting weather, soaking rain, thick foggy mornings, and intense summer heat. But while the conditions tested drivers on track, Turn 14 Distribution's guests stayed cool, dry, and well-fed from the comfort of the fourth floor of the Ohio Tower. This elevated space provided panoramic track views and a welcome escape from the elements. Each morning kicked off with a full-service hot breakfast featuring eggs, bacon, bagels, and donuts, ensuring guests were fueled up and ready for a full day of racing action.

Most recently, at Road America, the Turn 14 Distribution team set up in the Finish Line Tower, featuring an air-conditioned, multi-level suite complete with an outdoor viewing deck and roof access to see even more of the track. The suite was a welcome respite from the midwestern heat and humidity and provided an excellent view of every race's start and finish. The sound of full-throttle race cars accelerating down the straight after exiting the eponymous Turn 14. The Summer Apex Festival lived up to its name and was the largest event so far this season. 

PREMIUM HOSPITALITY BACKED BY INDUSTRY LEADERS

The lounge wouldn't be what it is without the support of Turn 14 Distribution's incredible sponsor partners. Special thanks to:

• Hawk Performance
• ARP
• Radium Engineering
• Aeromotive
• AST Suspension and Moton Suspension
• Gates

Together, these brands help Turn 14 Distribution deliver a hospitality experience that reflects the best of what the aftermarket community has to offer.

FULL SPEED INTO THE SECOND HALF

With deep roots in aftermarket performance, Turn 14 Distribution knows exactly what race weekends demand. From wrenching in the paddock to pushing limits on track, the pace is intense, and having a place to recharge makes all the difference.

So, with four high-energy events behind and five more to go, Turn 14 Distribution is only getting started. From Circuit Legends at Lime Rock Park to the season finale at Pitt Race, the Turn 14 Partner Lounge will continue to be where drinks and stories are shared and the motorsports passion comes to life. 

Anyone planning to attend an upcoming event should contact their Turn 14 sales or marketing representative. If space allows, Turn 14 Distribution would love to host more guests trackside.

Hope to see you at the next green flag!

UPCOMING GRIDLIFE EVENTS

Circuit Legends
Lime Rock Park, CT
August 15–17

Chicagoland
Autobahn Country Club, IL
September 12–14

Laguna Festival
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, CA
September 26–28

Pitt Race
Pittsburgh International Race Complex, PA
October 17–19

For more information, visit Turn14.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Veteran Leader Alicia Boler Davis Named President of Ford Pro

Ford Motor Company announced that Alicia Boler Davis, an accomplished executive with more than 30 years of experience in automotive, technology and customer experience, has been named president of Ford Pro, effective October 1.

Davis succeeds Andrew Frick, who has served as interim leader of Ford Pro since last year and will continue to lead Ford Blue and Ford Model e.

Davis was most recently CEO of Alto Pharmacy, and from 2019 to 2024, served in senior roles at Amazon, joining as vice president of global customer fulfillment and then promoted to senior vice president in 2022. In that role, she guided Amazon's global fulfillment network through the intense challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, driving major advances in robotics and technology.

Before Amazon, Davis worked for 25 years at General Motors. She started as a manufacturing engineer and rose through leadership roles in manufacturing, quality and connected customer experience. In her final GM post--as executive vice president of global manufacturing and labor relations, reporting directly to the CEO--she oversaw 22 vehicle launches and managed 150 facilities in 20 countries.

For more information, visit ford.com.

Mopar Launches New Affiliated Accessory Program

Mopar, the original-equipment parts, accessories and customer care brand of Stellantis, has launched a new expanded accessories program for United States-based dealerships that sell and service Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles.

The new Mopar Affiliated Accessories program offers more than 1,000 popular accessories from well-known and preferred aftermarket supplier partners that can be installed during the vehicle purchase or any time thereafter, providing customers with access to a wider choice of trusted aftermarket options than ever before to personalize or enhance the performance of their vehicles.

All Mopar Affiliated Accessories have been reviewed by Mopar for proper fitment and are guaranteed by each supplier separately. The expanding list of affiliated accessories can be ordered online through the Mopar eStore or at a local dealership. Items are then delivered to the selling dealership for customer pickup or installation.

Currently, more than 40 partnering suppliers are offering more than 1,000 items in the Mopar Affiliated Accessories program. The growing list of current suppliers includes:

• AccuAir Lift Kits
• Add-A-Tap
• AEV Bumper and Attachments
• AllTrade Tool Kits
• ASG Catalytic Converter Protection and Badge Overlays
• Baja Designs Lighting
• Cascadia 4x4 Solar Power
• ClearLidz Roof Panels
• Cobra CB and GMRS Radios, and Dash Cameras
• Competition Specialties – Bilstein, WeatherTech, ReadyLIFT, Pittman Outdoors and ARB
• CTEK Power Solutions 
• Curt Towing Accessories
• Dometic Coolers
• EGR Power Tonneau Covers
• Element Fire Extinguishers
• EZ 4x4 Door Racks and Hangers
• Guidepoint Systems EVTS
• HitchFire Grilles
• Kuat Roof Racks
• Leitner Cargo Systems
• LoadTamer Cargo Nets
• Lumen Phone Holder
• MB Quart Sound System
• MEK Magnet Graphics
• Napier Tents
• Nemesys Gear Cooler Bag and Pet Carrier
• Putco Storage Panels
• Racing Optics Windshield Protection
• RedArc Overlanding and Electrical Components
• Rival Hood Struts
• Rockslide Engineering Step Sliders
• SeaSucker Racks
• Segway Personal Transportation
• Sto N Sho Brackets
• Tailgater Tire Tables
• THULE Roof and Hitch Racks
• Tuffy Safes
• Visco Graphics
• WildTop Truck Caps
• XG Cargo Storage Units

For more information, visit mopar.com or stellantis.com.

Litens Aftermarket Hires Sam Molin as Inventory and Logistics Analyst

Litens Aftermarket N.A., a provider of aftermarket belt drive products, has hired Sam Molin as inventory and logistics analyst.

In this role, Molin will manage outbound shipments to customers, track inventory levels and support warehouse operations at the company's Toledo facility.

Joining Litens shortly after the addition of Mitchel Skamiera as operations analyst, the hiring of Molin further reflects the company's growing focus on enhancing its logistics and operations functions. These strategic additions are part of a broader initiative to streamline warehouse processes and enhance customer fulfillment, the company said.

For more information, visit litensaftermarket.com.

Lexani Tires Launches 3-in-1 Incentive-Based Dealer Program

Lexani Tires, a subsidiary brand from Turbo Wholesale Tires, has launched an all-inclusive rewards program with the Lexani, Lionhart and Rolling Big Power tire lines.

All three tire lines are assembled to support a variety of dealers with all their passenger, light truck, off-road and commercial vehicle needs. The new program includes LexaniShop.com, where each tire brand's literature, point-of-sale materials and apparel are all available and redeemable with program points.

"The easy-to-use and functional portal lets dealers know their accumulated points and where they stand in their annual goals," said Bridney Jordan, product manager. "Additionally, brand enthusiasts and customers can conveniently order official Lexani, Lionhart and Rolling Big Power apparel, drinkware, and other branded merchandise--delivered directly to their home or place of business."

"We're here to help our dealers turn heads and boost business with bold, eye-catching point-of-sale materials that bring our brand to life and build serious confidence with customers," said Todd Pickens, chief commercial officer.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Martin Klepper, technical assistant/customer-service representative for motorsports at Antigravity Batteries, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

Get to know Klepper in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received? 

Martin Klepper: "When [General Motors] told me I couldn't do it, I went out and beat them." One of my old customers told me that, and it's just a reminder of what you can achieve in the face of any odds or obstacles. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

MK: I've wanted to be around cars since I was a teenager. I've never really looked past this industry as a career path. This is my industry. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

MK: Taking care of friends and family.

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

MK: Take notes on my manager and how she wants to hear information. That way I know how to deliver information to her whether I'm prepared or not. 

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be? 

MK: Bruce McLaren.  

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates. 

By Ashley Reyes

Winter will be here again before we know it, bringing rain, snow and icy roads that will contribute to more dangerous road conditions. To help industry members get ahead of the season, the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) will host a virtual Coffee and Conversation on preparing vehicles for winter driving, with a focus on tires, wheels, brakes and suspension, on Thursday, August 7 at 9:00 a.m. PDT/12:00 p.m. EDT.  

The discussion will focus on why it's crucial to plan ahead and address these components before the first snowfall. Attendees will learn how early preparation ensures product availability, avoids seasonal installation delays and keeps vehicles safe and reliable when winter conditions hit. 

Featured Experts: 

• Brian McCroskey, suspension senior manager--special projects, Thyssenkrupp Bilstein of America 
• Mike Messina, general manager--racing division, Brembo North America 
• John Rastetter, Tire Rack 
• Gary Ruede, supervisor technical, Discount Tire 
• Ryan Rutlidge, suspension director of product development, Air Lift Company 

Don't wait until it's too late—get the insights you need to stay ahead of the cold. Register for the Coffee and Conversation here. 

By SEMA News Editors

As specialty-equipment industry manufacturers once again prepare to descend on Las Vegas for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, it's important for exhibitors to keep critical deadlines and checklists at the forefront and take advantage of the many programs available to exhibitors that are designed to help your brand increase exposure and improve ROI.

In order to help your brand prepare to connect with dedicated buyers, influencers, dealers and automotive professionals, here are some exhibitor resources to help you track upcoming deadlines and stay on budget.

Products for Project-Vehicle Builders Program

SEMA Show exhibitors can expand their reach, product exposure and Show-floor presence through the exclusive Products for Project-Vehicle Builders program, which is now open at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list is designed for builders looking to collaborate and seek product offers straight from confirmed SEMA Show exhibitors.

Qualified builders interested in obtaining a product should contact exhibitors directly with the provided contact information. All product-placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder, with each project vehicle on display at the SEMA Show required to be supported by a current 2025 SEMA Show exhibitor.

The list is open to exhibitors of the 2025 SEMA Show only. To be included in the list, complete the form at semashow.com/projectvehicle.

SEMA Show Deadlines List

This all-encompassing checklist provides a breakdown of deadlines for booth orders, rentals, booth vehicle applications, celebrity appearance notifications and more key dates, some of which are also detailed in this article below.

View the SEMA Show deadlines checklist.

Budget Checklist

This checklist allows exhibitors to keep track of all costs--like exhibit design, booth services, freight/material handling, labor and miscellaneous fees. Simply input the exhibiting company name for a personalized form.

View the SEMA Show budget checklist.

Upcoming Key Exhibitor Deadlines

Be sure to check out the complete list of deadlines for more dates, including the upcoming July 25 deadline for Feature Vehicle Display applications. The Feature Vehicle Display program allows exhibitors to expand their Show presence beyond their booth space and is open to vehicles of all categories and applications of the aftermarket. Click here for more information on the Feature Vehicle Display program.

• August 13: SEMA Show Directory listing information.
• August 15: Press/Media Conference application.
• August 22: SEMA Show Directory ad space reservations.
• August 28: SEMA Show Directory ad materials due.

Placing Freeman orders before the Thursday, October 2 discount deadline, which offers discounted prices off regular rates on nearly all services, is one of the best ways to save ahead of the SEMA Show.

Don't forget that the Exhibitor Services Manual, accessed at semashow.com/esm, is a one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show. It contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including the deadline and budget checklists.

And now that you know these dates, exhibitors can also lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

By Ashley Reyes

Registration is now open for exhibitors to participate in the 2026 SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference, the aftermarket industry's premier event for establishing connections between motorsports parts manufacturers and media professionals. Taking place January 27-29, 2026, in Anaheim, California, this unique event delivers a focused, high-impact value like no other. 

Hear It From Those Who Were There 

Here is what past participants had to say about the 2025 event on social media: 

• "The Wharton Automotive Group team is off to an incredible start at the SEMA MPMC event! We're connecting with some of the brightest minds in the industry, sharing ideas and showcasing what makes our brands stand out." - @beardellinger on Instagram  
• "Representing Fluidampr, together with Nick Orefice, we welcomed nearly 40 introductory MTC meetings with the most variety of content creators I've experienced in my 14-plus years with the company. Thank you to all who took the time to meet with us!" - Brian LeBarron on LinkedIn 
• "Proud to have been part of the 2025 SEMA MPMC Media Trade Conference! A fantastic opportunity to connect with industry leaders and showcase Speedmaster's latest innovations. Excited for the future of automotive excellence." - Speedmaster on LinkedIn 
• "Likened to 'speed dating' between media and manufacturers, the program is a great way to network and share information with the media about our latest products to get the word out to the masses! It's three days of 30-minute meetings (with some fun thrown in at night)!" - COMP Cams on Facebook 
• "Another great SEMA MPMC Media Trade Conference! Our ProCharger Superchargers team crushed it with more than 45 meetings in 3 days." - Kyle Fickler on Facebook 

Put Your Brand in Front of the Industry's Top Voices  

Ready to put your brand front and center? Save $100 off your registration by registering by September 8 at mediatradeconference.com.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA is now accepting nominations for its highly regarded Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award. Designed to place an emphasis on engineers and their impact on the industry, the award honors a featured vehicle at the SEMA Show that demonstrates exceptional engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or an aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond just physical appearance. 

"Engineers are continuously pushing the envelope of custom car building, implementing innovative upgrades and technology that make cars look cooler, operate more efficiently and deliver at the highest of performance standards," said Jose Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs. "Whether it's a fresh take on a timeless classic or a never-before-seen cutting-edge concept, this award embraces innovation and the creative minds of builders who have perfected their craft."  

Blazin Rodz from Rancho Santa Magarita, California, received SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year honors at the 2024 SEMA Show for their '70 Chevrolet Chevelle. The Chevelle--dubbed "Doughboy"--is powered by a twin-turbo Chevy-based big-block delivering more than 2,800 hp and built utilizing multiple 3D-based design and printing techniques. Featuring the aesthetics of a GT Cup car, the Chevelle was designed, manufactured and assembled in-house using 35 custom CNC and 3D-printed parts, including its bespoke metal widebody. 

Apply Now  

The deadline to submit nominations for SEMA's Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award is Wednesday, October 29. Submit a nomination at the button below or this link, and read more about Blazin Rodz's award-winning Chevelle here.   

The award winner will be announced at the 2025 SEMA Show on Thursday, November 6, in SEMA Central.