Tue, 11/11/2025 - 08:45

By SEMA News Editors

Women's Leadership Forum

 

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Women's Leadership Forum returns in 2026 with all-new programming that will empower women in the automotive aftermarket to reach new levels of career success. Taking place March 5–7 in San Diego, California, the Forum will bring female professionals together for dynamic education sessions, hands-on workshops and networking opportunities that will spark new insights on what it means to be an impactful leader.   

"The Women's Leadership Forum offers more than just networking; it delivers tangible skills that attendees can apply immediately," said SBN Council Director Nicole Bradle. "Whether you're looking to strengthen your leadership skills or increase your visibility in the industry, this event provides the support and environment to achieve your goals."  

Leadership for Every Stage    

The Women's Leadership Forum will cover a variety of topics that will strengthen the confidence and capability of women in automotive, no matter the stage of their career. Executives will gain insight into current leadership challenges, exchange ideas with peers and discover new ways to drive organizational success. Likewise, midlevel managers and emerging leaders will learn how to build influence, develop a leadership mindset and position themselves for advancement. 

Women's Leadership Forum

 

Education that Empowers   

The education program will tackle key leadership challenges and address the most pressing skills needed by leaders today. Through engaging keynotes and interactive sessions, participants will gain new perspectives on effective communication, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution and so much more. Speakers include female industry leaders, executive coaches and trained consultants who have proven experience finding better ways to do business and are ready to share their insights.  

Networking that Opens Doors  

Dedicated networking sessions are scheduled throughout the week to help attendees further their connections and share experiences with women who understand them. These sessions provide the perfect opportunity to identify potential mentors, build confidence in networking conversations and meet new peers that can support their leadership journey.  

Unlike other leadership conferences that cater to all industries, the SBN Women's Leadership forum was built by women in the aftermarket industry, for women in the aftermarket industry. No where else can female aftermarket professionals connect directly with their community, learn from women who have been in their shoes and walk away with skills that are applicable to their distinct profession and business.    

Early registration for the SBN Women's Leadership Forum is just $799 for SBN members through February 1. After that, pricing increases to $899 up until the day of the conference.  Explore the full program and register now at www.sema.org/sbn-wlf.  

Fri, 11/07/2025 - 22:20

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Battle of the Builders

 

SEMA has announced the Top Four finalists in the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers, the aftermarket industry's ultimate vehicle competition. 

These builders represent an elite group of individuals who have demonstrated extreme talent, creativity, and craftsmanship in modifying cars, trucks and SUVs.
The Top Four finalists reveal took place on Thursday on the SEMA Show stage in booth 

The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Top 4 are (by category):

 

Hot Rod/Hot Rod Truck

 

Troy Trepanier -- '36 Ford Roadster

Troy Trepanier 36 Ford Roadster

 

Sport Compact-Import Performance

 

Tim Franklin -- '60 Porsche Custom 356

Tim Franklin 60 Porsche 356

 

Young Guns

 

Thomas Dickerson -- '67 Chevrolet C10

Thomas Dickerson 67 C10

 

 

Off-Road

 

Ron Jones -- '73 Volkswagen Thing

Ron Jones Volkswagen Thing

 

The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish Top Four will be announced at the Battle of the Builders Stage, North Hall (Booth #10168) on Friday, November 7, at 11:00 a.m. PST.

For more information, visit semabattleofthebuilders.com.

Fri, 11/07/2025 - 21:37

By SEMA News Editors

Get ready for more action, more access and more excitement: SEMA Live Presented by AutoZone returns for the final day of the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4–7, with expanded coverage and a faster pace.

Broadcasting 31 hours of live programming on YouTube and Meta, SEMA Live delivers the best breaking news, vehicle reveals, trending products and all the on-site action straight from the SEMA Show campus.

Chris Jacobs returns as host, joined by reporters Alliyah Becerra, JC Fernandez, and newcomer Elija Isra, who, at just 14, brings fresh energy to the broadcast.

What's New for 2025
  • Deeper Battle of the Builders Coverage: Go behind the scenes with builders, hear their stories and see the craftsmanship up close.
  • All-Access Outdoor Cameras: Every burnout, stunt and live demo from Hoonigan Burn Yard, HorsePower Rodeo, Nitro Circus, OPTIMA Unleashed, and SPARQ captured from every angle.
  • Faster, High-Impact Segments: Shorter, punchier updates that move at the pace of the SEMA Show, highlighting more vehicles, tech and trends.
  • Industry Legends Live: Hear directly from icons including Antron Brown, Chip Foose, Dave Kindig, Jay Leno, Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias, and Jim and Mike Ring, and much more.
  • Record Number of Reveals: More manufacturers than ever are choosing SEMA Live for their first looks.
  • Live SEMA Cruise Broadcast: For the first time, SEMA Live will air the full SEMA Cruise on Friday, 4–6 p.m. PST, as thousands of builds parade before spectators.

Watch the live stream starting every day of the 2025 SEMA Show through Friday, November 7, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PST on the SEMA Show YouTube and Facebook pages. 


Attendee registration for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas, is still available online here. Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $100 per person, with badge pickup on-site on the SEMA Show campus. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX.   

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

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

Fri, 11/07/2025 - 17:02

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Magazine Giveaway

 

Stop by booth #20569 at the SEMA Show and subscribe to SEMA Magazine for free for your chance to win a signed Chip Foose print! 

Sign up between October 31–November 9--don’t miss your shot at this one-of-a-kind collectible!  

Can’t make it to the Show? Subscribe through the link below.  

Enter Now Mag button

 

Fri, 11/07/2025 - 16:38

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle winner Serious66 Kyle Kuhnhausen Metal Concepts '66 Corvette

 

SEMA has announced that the SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award has been presented to Kuhnhausen Metal Concepts' '66 Chevrolet Corvette named "Serious66." 

The vehicle, which was coincidentally also announced as a Top 12 vehicle in the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Polish, was designed to "merge American heritage with European refinement in a one-of-a-kind creation."  

The mastermind behind the build is Kyle Kuhnhausen, owner of Kuhnhausen Metal Concepts in Creswell, Oregon, who said the following about when he heard he won the award: "You had to pick me up off the floor. I was floating. And to get that recognition amongst all these great cars at SEMA, it just reinforces the fact that I'm on the right path." 

"I'd like to thank SEMA for putting this on and giving professionals like me the chance to shine, show off our work, connect with new clients, and help keep this industry moving forward," Kuhnhausen continued. "I also want to thank my dad--he's my right-hand man on these projects. It's amazing to share those bonding moments with him, and now sharing this award together makes it even more special." 

"And of course, I want to thank my family, especially my wife. Without her support and patience with all the late nights at the shop, none of this would be possible," he concluded. 

The Kuhnhausen Metal Concepts' '66 Chevrolet Corvette build features: 

  • An engineered PWR North America cooling package. 
  • A GM LT4 Supercharged direct-injected dry-sump oiled engine. 
  • A ZF8HP paddle shifted 8-speed with operational electronic clutch pedal.
  • TurboLamik TCU control.  
  • A Dakota Digital HDX instrumentation. 
  • Custom leather interior by BUX Built. 
  • Art Morrison GT Sport IRS chassis. 
  • Strange S60 differential.  
  • Tru-Trac Posi. 
  • JRi double adjustable coilovers tuned by Ultimate Performance. 
  • Forgeline R56 wheels. 
  • Woodward Roadrace rack & pinnion. 
  • Wilwood AERO brakes. 

Even better, Kuhnhausen made it easy for SEMA News readers who want to learn more about the build by providing a complete gallery featuring more than 2,000 photos across 100-plus albums, plus detailed write-ups, at this link

You can see the pristine build in the SEMA Battle of the Builders, presented by Mothers Polish, at North Hall, Booth #10168, throughout the rest of the SEMA Show, concluding today, November 7. 
 

SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle trophy near Serious66 Kuhnhausen Metal Concepts


The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle Award aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle's design and engineering. 

Designed to emphasize 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 car that goes beyond just physical appearance.   

"I'm extremely proud to be here. It's an honor to present this award," said Luis Morales, SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology and Product Development. "Every time you come to the SEMA Show, you want to see what the builders are doing to push the envelope, what's new, what's exciting. Behind all of that creativity is the engineering--the part most people don't see. It's the behind-the-scenes work that brings these incredible products to life. It's about innovation: what's different, what's been improved, and how many countless hours have gone into perfecting these vehicles." 

That sentiment was echoed by Karen Salvaggio, who is the vice president of Business Development at Scorpion EV and also serves as the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) Select Committee member. 

"We're proud to see so many incredible builds nominated for SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle. We had an outstanding group of cars this year, and honestly, my judging team had their hands full. The level of engineering on display across the Show--from one end of West Hall to the far side of South Hall--is truly incredible," said Salvaggio. "But this particular award is about more than looks. It's not just about great paint or bolt-on parts. This award honors creativity, innovation, problem-solving and true engineering excellence. The vehicle built by Kyle Kuhnhausen, with his father Chris, who is here to accept the award, stood above the rest."  

Attendee registration for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas, is still available online hereOnline registration for qualified professional attendees is $100 per person, with badge pickup on-site on the SEMA Show campus. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX.    

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

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

Fri, 11/07/2025 - 14:27

By SEMA News Editors

Media Choice Awards

 

SEMA has announced the winners of its 2025 SEMA Media Choice Awards.

SEMA's celebrated media recognition program was revamped for 2025, expanding to include top domestic industry media outlets. More than 20 leading editors from consumer, enthusiast and trade publications combed through the New Products Showcase to handpick three standout products each that they believe will resonate with their audiences.

You can see the award-winning products, plus hundreds of other new aftermarket innovations, at the New Products Showcase, located in booth #41271 in Lower South Hall.

See the full list of Media Choice Award winners below:

Jason Mulligan - Auto Revolution
  • Dakota Digital - RTX-88C-PU-X Chevy/GMC 1988-91 RTX Gauge System
  • Holley Performance Brands - Terminator X Bluetooth Module (558-483)
  • Melling Performance - MDK400-HPT AFM Delete Kit with Tuner

 

Abby Andrews - Autobody News
  • Revv ADAS - Revv Integration Ecosystem
  • Killer Tools & Equipment Corp. - SPOT WELD PRO
  • I-CAR - Mixed Attachment Methods

 

Henry Pierini - AutoZulia International
  • Teslong - F6 Pro
  • Polyvance - 6181 Mini-Fuzer Pro Hot Air Plastic Welder
  • Redline Detection - Smoke Pro Total Tech 95-0050

 

Chad Reynolds – BangShift
  • Dakota Digital - VCM-300 Velocity Commander Mechanical Cruise Control
  • FTI Performance/Wharton Automotive Group (McLeod, Silver Sport, FTI, Competition Clutch) - FTI Performance 10R80 Torque Converter for Mustang and F-150 Truck
  • Edelbrock Group (Edelbrock, COMP Cams, TCI, FAST, Russell, Lunati) - Edelbrock Victor LSXR Supercharger for LS3-Swapped Vehicles

 

Collin Morgan – Car & Driver
  • Suspension Direct Inc. - E-CLIK Universal Kit for Remote Reservoir Shocks
  • 70mai - 4K Omni
  • Scosche Industries - Scosche FoundIT Charge - Item Locator & Car Charger

 

Young-Jun Yu - Car & Tech
  • Redline Detection - BCLD: Battery + Coolant Leak Detector
  • All-Fit Automotive and RIMiQ - INFLATiQ by RIMiQ Portable Tire Inflator with QwikFlow Technology
  • Carlock - CARLOCK Ultimate Security Bundle

 

William Simons - Collision Repair Magazine
  • KECO Body Repair Products - GPR+ Pro Cart
  • Kinetic Automation - Kinetic Vision
  • Car-Part.com - iPro Images

 

Nicole & Chris Hamilton - Engaged Media
  • IDIDIT – '88-'94 GM OBS Truck Steering Column with Multifunction Switch
  • Z-TRAK - Custom-Fitted Mounting Rack for Truck Beds
  • QA1 – '99-'06 Silverado and Sierra Suspension Systems

 

Jerome Andre – Generation 4x4
  • Dynam Labs Inc. - Dynam Labs VCU+
  • Torque Trends, Inc. - TorqueBox 2.0 Extreme Duty
  • Worksport Ltd. - COR Battery System

 

Johnny Hunkins - HOT ROD
  • AeroCreeper - Power-Lift AeroCreeper
  • BluePrint Engines - GM LS Compatible 376 c.i. Engine and ZF-8 Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Edelbrock Group (Edelbrock, COMP Cams, TCI, FAST, Russell, Lunati) - Edelbrock Victor LSXR Supercharger for LS3-Swapped Vehicles

 

Andreanna Ditton - Internet Brands Automotive Group
  • Turbosmart - E-Boost 3
  • ProCharger Superchargers - ProCharger P-1R Supercharger
  • Vapor Trapper - Vapor Trapper

 

Cesar Velasco - KAR Automotive
  • AlphaRex - AlphaRex '24+ Ford F-150 NOVA-Series LED Headlights
  • AFE Power - Toyota Tacoma D.A.S. XL Dynamic Air Scoop
  • Tanlink Corp. - Wolfbox MegaFlow 200 Compressed Air Duster with Swappable Battery Cartridge

 

Mike Kojima - MotoIQ
  • Race Winning Brands - JE Pistons VW DASA Extreme pistons
  • Race Winning Brands - Haltech Nexus Plug-in ECU for Nissan Skyline R32/R33/R34 GT-R
  • Suspension Direct Inc. - E-CLIK Universal Kit for Remote Reservoir Shocks

 

KJ Jones - MotorTrend
  • FLATED - FLATED Air-Topper FLEET
  • Caliber Inc. - Apex SkyLift
  • ProCharger Superchargers – '24-'25 Ford F-150 5.0-L High Output "PRO" Supercharger System

 

Luis Zschocke - New Tune Up
  • FiTech Fuel Injection - Go EFI Vintage 97 System
  • Ford Performance Parts and Accessories - Ford Performance by Recaro Black Mustang Seat Set
  • COLLINO - Ford F-100 Twin I-Beam Adjustable Camber and Caster Lift Kit

 

Paul Sakalas - On All Cylinders
  • Vapor Trapper - Vapor Trapper
  • Antigravity Lithium Batteries - Antigravity Batteries Lightweight Sodium Starter Battery
  • FiTech Fuel Injection - Go EFI Vintage 97 System
 
Sean Holman - OVR Magazine
  • REDARC Electronics - REDWorks Power Panels
  • Suspension Direct Inc. - E-CLIK Universal Kit for Remote Reservoir Shocks
  • Caliber Inc. - Apex SkyLift

 

Guillermo Moeller - Performance Digital Entertainment
  • Holley Performance Brands - 6T 13.5-in. Front Brake Kit
  • Apollo Sprayers International Inc. - Maxi-Miser by ApolloSpray POWER-6 VS AUTO HVLP Electric Painting System
  • VAIS Technology - Push Button Start System with Relay Module

 

Ludmilla Kruppa - Revista Garagem Old School
  • Aces Fuel Injection, Inc. - Deuces Wild 2
  • FiTech Fuel Injection - Go EFI Vintage 97 System
  • Old School Metal - FUSCONETA Volkspod Mini Bike

 

Jef White - THE SHOP Magazine
  • ProCharger Superchargers - GM LS Engine Air-to-Water Intercooler Integrated Intake Manifold
  • REDARC Electronics - QuickFit Power Panels
  • GEARWRENCH - GEARWRENCH Hi-Viz Socket & Impact Sets

 

Matthew Walker – Traction
  • Method Race Wheels - Method 709 HD (Heavy Duty) Bead Grip Wheel with optional Forged Rings
  • Fury Tires - Fury Tires Sierra Hunter ATM
  • Turbo Wholesale Tires - Lionhart Imara H/T

 

For details, contact the SEMA Public Relations team at pr@sema.org.

Fri, 11/07/2025 - 13:12

By SEMA News Editors

Industry Honors

 

SEMA announced the winners of its coveted Person of the Year, Content Creator of the Year and Gen-III Innovator of the Year awards. Presented during the SEMA Industry Honors at the 2025 SEMA Show, these awards recognize industry members for their significant and transformative contributions to the automotive aftermarket during the past year.

"To all the SEMA Show attendees, thank you for bringing your energy to Las Vegas this week. To our SEMA members, you are the backbone of this industry," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "Together, we will continue to move this industry forward. That’s what defines us! Tonight, we celebrate the people making it happen: the innovators, the visionaries, the builders of the future."

Person of the Year: Dean Case (Motivo Engineering)
SEMA Person of the Year Dean Case

 

An unwavering advocate for SEMA and the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN), Case played an instrumental role in bridging the gap between the aftermarket industry and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) community in 2025.

Case was pivotal to the success of the ETTN/SAE student career event at the SEMA Garage, the largest career fair the association has ever hosted. The impact of this event extended far beyond attendance numbers; it also created meaningful connections with students and educators, helping to attract fresh talent into the industry.

Thanks to Case's contributions, the event brought together a diverse range of experts, actively engaged schools and was carefully documented through professional videography, amplifying SEMA's mission to a wider audience.

 

Content Creator of the Year: Westen Champlin 
Content Creator of the Year Westen Champlin

 

The SEMA Content Creator of the Year Award recognizes and celebrates a content creator's exceptional dedication to enriching automotive culture. This accolade applauds Champlin's significant impact in shaping a vibrant community and fostering a positive environment among automotive enthusiasts. Garnering more than 4 million subscribers on YouTube, 3.8 million followers on TikTok, 2.5 million followers in Instagram and 3.3 million followers on Facebook, his creative efforts on social media have not only elevated the discourse around automotive passions but have also inspired a deeper appreciation for the art and innovation within the industry.

 

Gen-III Innovator of the Year: Andrius Liskus (LABA7, UAB)
Gen III Innovator of the Year Andrius Liskus

 

Liskus solved a major barrier in advanced suspension testing: accessibility. High-speed, high-precision damper testing typically requires large, stationary machines with high-voltage, high-amperage power inputs, which limits their use to specialized R&D facilities. With the EMA, or Electromagnetic Damper Test System, Liskus and his team developed a solution that delivers lab-grade performance--up to 7,000 mm/s velocity, 100 G acceleration and 150 Hz frequency--while running from a standard 110V socket. The system condenses energy using supercapacitors to drive electromagnetic motors efficiently and with precision. 

This means cutting-edge damper testing no longer needs to be tied to infrastructure-heavy environments. Race teams, independent developers and workshops can now run the same level of dynamic testing that was once only available inside OEM labs. The EMA is even transportable, making it viable for on-site testing and trackside diagnostics.

 

Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award: Don 'Big Daddy' Garlits

Don Garlits at the 2025 SEMA Industry Honors

 

The Petersen Automotive Museum honored drag racing legend Don Garlits with its Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 SEMA Industry Honors event. Garlits, known as "Big Daddy," is a pioneer in drag racing, having accumulated 35 NHRA national event victories and three NHRA Top Fuel national championships across more than 50 years in motorsports. Garlits built the first rear-engine Top Fuel dragster and was known as the first builder to incorporate aerodynamics into his fuel dragster body designs. In addition, his "Swamp Rat XXX" was the industry's first fully enclosed dragster, while he was also among the first drag racers to surpass milestones including 200, 250, and 270 miles per hour marks on the 1/4-mile strip.

"Don Garlits set the standard for what a true drag racer could and should be," said Terry L. Karges, executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum. "He is a legend both on and off the drag strip, and we look forward to presenting him with this award."
Named after the founder of the Petersen Automotive Museum, previous recipients of the award include Dan Gurney, Art Chrisman, Carroll Shelby, George Barris, Andy Granatelli, The Ford Family, Vic Edelbrock, Jack Roush, Ed Iskenderian, So-Cal Speed Shop founder Alex Xydias, Dr. Wolfgang Porsche, William Clay Ford Jr., Richard Petty, Wally Parks, Roy Brizio and Don "The Snake" Prudhomme.
"I am so honored to be recognized by the Petersen Automotive Museum and to join such a distinguished group of past recipients," said Garlits, who established the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, Fla. "There is so much racing history in Southern California, and the Petersen has done an amazing job bringing together the entire automotive world in the heart of Los Angeles."

The SEMA Show is the ultimate trade show for aftermarket professionals to see thousands of the newest automotive performance products from new and iconic exhibitors, discover the latest product and vehicle trends, and develop essential skills.

For more information, visit SEMAShow.com

Fri, 11/07/2025 - 12:25

By SEMA News Editors

OPTIMA Unleashed SEMA Fest


Experience SEMA Fest 2025 on Friday, November 7, where live music meets motorsports mayhem. This one-night-only event features chart-topping bands and adrenaline-pumping automotive activations you won’t find during the rest of the week at the SEMA Show.

BUY TICKETS button for 2025 SEMA Fest Las Vegas

 

Queens of the Stone Age will headline SEMA Fest 2025 with a high-energy set that's guaranteed to shake the SEMA Show stage. Known for hits like "No One Knows," "Go With the Flow," "Little Sister" and "The Way You Used to Do," the multi-platinum band will bring their iconic sound to one of the industry's most anticipated nights of the year. The Black Crowes will shift the crowd into party mode when they hit the stage to perform some of their greatest hits live, including "She Talks to Angels," "Hard to Handle," "Remedy" and more. Neon Trees, known for their chart-topping anthems like "Animal" and "Everybody Talks," will start the lineup of bands with their signature mix of infectious pop-rock and vibrant stage presence. 

But SEMA Fest is more than just a concert--it's a full-throttle celebration where music meets motorsports. Between sets, fans can check out wild custom builds, jaw-dropping drifting demos and burnouts, lifestyle vendors, and the kind of festival vibes you can only find among like-minded enthusiasts during SEMA Show week in Las Vegas.

SEMA Fest officially opens on Friday at 9:00 a.m. PST with heart-pounding motorsports activations like Hoonigan (Silver Lot 3), Nitro Circus Moto Mayhem (Silver Lot 1), HorsePower Rodeo (Diamond Lot), OPTIMA Unleashed (Bronze Lot) and an exclusive spectacle: The Urias Family’s Original Globe of Death.

Where else can you see this incredible music lineup combined with heart-pounding motorsports--all with a single ticket? For just $95 (including fees!), attendees can experience three top-tier bands, high-octane automotive activations and the energy of Las Vegas in one unforgettable day.

Arrive early to take full advantage of everything happening on campus. Please note that parking will be unavailable at the Las Vegas Convention Center, and SEMA Cruise street closures may be in effect. Therefore, early arrival is highly recommended to enjoy the full SEMA Fest experience.

Ticketholders: Want to Upgrade?

While your SEMA Fest ticket gets you into live performances from chart-topping bands and hair-raising automotive demonstrations, it doesn't get you access to the SEMA Show. But it's not too late to change that.

If you purchased a SEMA Fest ticket and now have the itch to check out the aftermarket's premier industry event, you can upgrade your admission to include a ticket to "SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public," on Friday, November 7, through your Tixr account.

Here's how to upgrade your SEMA Fest ticket to include access to the 2025 SEMA Show:

  1. Sign in to your Tixr account
  2. Find and click on your initials, located in the top-right corner of the homepage
  3. Select "My Events"
  4. If upgrades are available for your event, you will see the text "Upgrades Available"
  5. Click "Upgrades Available"
  6. Choose your new tickets and proceed to checkout
2025 SEMA Fest Fan Details

Attendees are encouraged to book accommodations through the official SEMA Show housing partner, onPeak, to access exclusive rates and benefits at top Las Vegas hotels at compass.onpeak.com/e/63SEM2025HIR/0.

Please note that parking will be unavailable at the Las Vegas Convention Center, and SEMA Cruise street closures may be in effect. Therefore, we highly recommend arriving early to enjoy the whole SEMA Fest experience.

Guests may use nearby off-campus lots (subject to daily fees and availability):

  • Piero's Italian Cuisine – 355 Convention Center Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89109
  • Westgate – 3009 Joe W Brown Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89109
  • Residence Inn – 3225 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
  • Courtyard Las Vegas – 3275 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
  • SpringHill Suites – 2989 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
  • Fontainebleau – 2777 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
  • Embassy Suites – 3600 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89169

Oversized vehicle parking inquiries should be directed to each property. Additional nearby parking options may also be found through apps such as Parkopedia and SpotHero

SEMA Fest 2025 lineup schedule queens of the stone age black crowes neon trees motorspors las vegas

🔗 Visit semafest.com for tickets, updates and full event details.
📩 Have questions? Email info@semafest.com.
🤝 For sponsorship or partnership inquiries, contact partnership@semafest.com.


This story was originally published on October 21, 2025. Prices subject to change.

Fri, 11/07/2025 - 12:06

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Cruise

 

A long-standing SEMA Show tradition continues today with the return of the SEMA Cruise, this year parading down Convention Center Drive.

The fun won't stop when another edition of the SEMA Show comes to a close. See some of the most creative and innovative vehicles on the planet as they roll out from the SEMA Show campus after the final day of the SEMA Show, this afternoon at 4:00 p.m. PST.

Cars will begin parading out of the Las Vegas Convention Center when the SEMA Show closes to the delight of thousands of fans in the crowds. More than 1,200 vehicles will take part in this time-honored tradition at the SEMA Show. This year's route will travel across the SEMA Show and down Convention Center Drive. Some enthusiasts show up as early as noon to stake out a spot, so you know you don't want to miss this special event!

  • SEMA Cruise
    • Today, November 7, 4:00 p.m. PST
    • SEMA Show Campus (Convention Center Drive).
    • ​​​​​​No cost or RSVP required to attend.

For more information, visit semashow.com.

Fri, 11/07/2025 - 10:36

By SEMA News Editors

PRO Cup Challenge

 

Automotive Concepts, a restyling shop from Minneapolis, Minnesota, is the winner of the 2025 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge for its accessorized '25 Ford F-150 SuperCrew that demonstrates the value and artistry of the automotive restyling industry.    

Held at the SEMA Show, the PRO Cup Challenge invites automotive restylers to design an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. The Ford F-150 SuperCrew was selected for its marketability, creativity, ease of replication, and profitability by a panel of judges.

The Ford F-150 SuperCrew showcases golden anniversary graphics celebrating 50 years of the iconic model. Built around the theme "Black Label," a term typically reserved for the pinnacle of its kind, the truck offers a fresh take on a concept never explored in the restyling space. The "5.0" badging pays homage to the powerful 5.0 Coyote engine under the hood, further emphasizing the vehicle's performance pedigree.

PRO Cup Challenge

 

"Automotive Concepts' build showcases exactly what the PRO Cup Challenge is about: turning creativity into real business opportunity," said Kevin Gillis, PRO Chair. "They've created a one-of-a-kind vehicle that dealerships can sell, customers will love and the aftermarket can capitalize on. It's exciting, it's attainable and we're proud to honor them for this achievement."

The Ford F-150 includes:

  • Suspension Lowering Kit (UMI Performance)
  • 22-in. Wheels/22X10 - 18 Battle (Arena Wheel Co.)
  • 22-in. Tires Proxes STIII 305/40-22 (Toyo Tire Co.)
  • Fender Flares/Extenda Fender (Bushwacker)
  • Hood Scoop (Air Design)
  • Power Sunroof/700 Series (Champion Automotive)
  • Window Tint/50% CTX (Llumar)
  • Font Lip Spoiler (Air Design)
  • Tailgate Spoiler (Air Design)
  • Cab Spoiler (Air Design)
  • Brake Caliper Covers (Rough Country)
  • Custom Graphics/Badging (AC / Luxwood)
  • Katzkin Leather Interior (Katzkin)
  • Side Mirror Covers/Gloss Black (Trim Illusion)
  • Tonneau Cover/Soft Roll-Up (Real Truck)

Auto Additions of Westerville, Ohio, earned the PRO Cup Challenge People's Choice Award for its customized '25 Lexus GX 550, as voted on by SEMA Show attendees. Themed the "Takumi Edition," the build features premium accessories from Eastman/Llumar, XPEL, TRI State, Oracle Lighting, Tentative Rago Fab, Avery, Voxx, Luxwood and Katzkin. Inspired by the Japanese concept of Takumi, meaning "artisan," the theme pays tribute to master craftsmanship, a distinction achieved only after more than 60,000 hours of honing one's skills.

PRO Cup Challenge People's Choice Award

 

Additional companies that competed in the PRO Cup Challenge were Sun Line Sunroofs ('26 Chevrolet Silverado 1500), Mars of Billings ('26 Kia Sportage), Auto Trim Restyling ('25 Toyota 4Runner), and DV8 Customs ('25 Ford Bronco).

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