By SEMA News Editors

 

 

Lincoln Nautilus Named 2025 MotorTrend SUV of the Year

 

 

MotorTrend Group has announced the Lincoln Nautilus as the 2025 SUV of the Year award winner. Lincoln's premium SUV stood out from competitors thanks to its elegant and sporty exterior, excellent driver assist features, interior comfort and user-friendly, in-vehicle digital experience system. The Nautilus takes the Lincoln brand to the next level with an x-factor that captivated MotorTrend's judges and ultimately placed the midsize luxury two-row crossover SUV at the top of the podium, according to a MotorTrend announcement.

The Lincoln Nautilus beat several impressive competitors, including the Rivian R1S, Toyota Land Cruiser, Lexus GX550, Hyundai Santa Fe, GMC Hummer SUV and the Mercedes G-Wagen. The prestigious MotorTrend "Of The Year" awards are based on six key criteria: safety, efficiency, value, advancement in design, engineering excellence, and performance of intended function.

"The right SUV is the perfect combination of style, comfort, and first-class driving experience --and the Nautilus delivers on every front. Each occupant, including backseat passengers, feels valued," said Ed Loh, MotorTrend Group's head of editorial. "The Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid also combines a compelling luxury experience mixed with uncompromised fuel efficiency, all at a competitive price."

Now in its second generation, the two-row, five-passenger Lincoln Nautilus slots neatly between Lincoln's larger three-row, seven-passenger Aviator and smaller two-row, five-passenger Corsair. In terms of powertrain performance, the standard powertrain is a 2.0 L turbocharged inline-four coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine is good for 250 HP and 280 lb-ft of torque. The Nautilus hybrid replaces the eight-speed with an eCVT--the "e" meaning there is an electric motor good for 168 HP hooked into the continuously variable transmission. The hybrid has a combined output of 310 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque.

Lincoln's mission was to make this vehicle feel like an oasis on wheels, and they accomplished the goal on every front, MotorTrend said. The vehicle combines elegant design and a reliable powertrain with acute attention to detail, all with driver and passenger comfort in mind. MotorTrend's expert team of editors appreciated the luxury feel of the entire SUV and was specifically impressed by the quality of design and attention to detail involved in the interior, from the quality of the seats to the massive 48-in. panoramic display.

For more in-depth analysis of why the Lincoln Nautilus was named 2025 SUV of the Year, visit MotorTrend's SUV of the Year award story at motortrend.com/news/lincoln-nautilus-2025-suv-of-the-year/.

 

Timbren Industries Invests CAD 1.3 Million in Advanced Equipment and Machinery

 

 

Timbren Industries, the Whitby, Ontario, Canada-based provider of high-performance suspension solutions, has invested more than CAD $1.3 million (approximately $940,000) in advanced equipment and machinery, including state-of-the-art milling machines, new rubber molding equipment and significant upgrades to their paint line. These advancements will enhance the production process and help meet the growing demand for Timbren's high-quality suspension products, including the Timbren SES and Axle-Less trailer suspension systems.

"We are dedicated to staying ahead of the curve by investing in the best technology to manufacture durable, high-performance suspension solutions," said Neil Hodgson, CEO of Timbren Industries. "These upgrades ensure that our products continue to meet the highest standards of quality, providing the exceptional performance our customers expect."

For more information, visit timbren.com.

 

RNR Tire Express Announces 4 Key Leadership Promotions

 

RNR Tire Express has announced four strategic promotions, including the appointment of a new CEO.

The promotions include former National Franchise President Adam Sutton to CEO, as well as Matthew Warren, former SVP, to COO, Kyle Parman to president of corporate store operations, and Matt King to VP of corporate store operations.

Sutton, who previously served as president of RNR, has been with the brand since 2017. With more than two decades of executive leadership experience, he will oversee the RNR franchise system and its nearly 200 locations nationwide and will focus on guiding growth through creative and strategic innovation.

In his seventh year with the brand, Warren oversees all company operations and departments while implementing proactive and dynamic solutions to help drive bottom line results and optimize operational efficiency.

Parman's role as the president of corporate store operations includes overseeing the operational functions of the organization to ensure alignment with the company goals and driving overall performance. He has more than 20 years of experience with RNR Tire Express.

As the VP of corporate store operations, King is responsible for oversight of the 25 corporate stores' daily activities and ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across all operation processes, the company said. This new role will include monitoring performance, managing risk and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

For more information, visit rnrfranchise.com.

AACF Announces Nominations Open for Inaugural AACF Humanitarian Award Sponsored by NEXUS North America

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), an organization supporting people in the automotive aftermarket and their families, is now accepting nominations for its first-ever AACF Humanitarian Award sponsored by NEXUS North America.

The award aims to recognize and honor outstanding individuals, companies, associations or groups within the automotive aftermarket industry who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving the lives of others through humanitarian efforts.

Nominees for this award should exemplify compassion, selflessness and a strong sense of social responsibility. Their actions should have made a significant and positive impact on communities locally, nationally or globally.

Nominations for the AACF Humanitarian Award can be submitted here through January 31, 2025. Nominations will be reviewed by a committee consisting of AACF Board and Executive Committee members, as well as a NEXUS executive.

The selection process for the AACF Humanitarian Award will be rigorous, with nominees evaluated based on their demonstrated impact and commitment to humanitarian causes. The award recipient will be announced at a special ceremony during Auto Care Association Connect 2025.

To submit a nomination or learn more about the AACF Humanitarian Award criteria, visit aftermarketcharity.org/humanitarianhero.

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Got company news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org. 

By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Eva Tran, marketing director at LIQUI MOLY, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Tran in her interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?  

Eva Tran: I have been with LIQUI MOLY for more than six years, working in various positions that have given me a comprehensive understanding of the company's operations. What I enjoy most is the opportunity to continuously expand my knowledge and skills in different areas of the business. This diverse experience has allowed me to develop a holistic perspective, contribute to different teams and understand how all the pieces fit together. I also value the dynamic and collaborative environment at LIQUI MOLY, where every challenge is met with creativity and teamwork.

SN: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?  

ET: The most challenging part of my job is also the most rewarding and exciting. When I joined LIQUI MOLY, the company was in its early stages, which gave me the unique opportunity to help build and shape our team, processes and workflows from the ground up. Contributing to the company's growth was both a significant challenge and an incredibly fulfilling experience. The responsibility of creating new systems to support our expansion required adaptability and strategic thinking but seeing the impact of my efforts and how far we've come has made it all worth it.

SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?  

ET: I have been in the automotive industry for six and a half years, starting with my current role at LIQUI MOLY. While this is my first official industry job, I grew up in an automotive family in Germany, which fostered my passion and interest in this field from an early age. That background gave me a solid foundation and a deep love for the industry long before I officially began my career.

SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?  

ET: Three qualities that have been instrumental in getting me to where I am today are adaptability, perseverance and collaboration.

Adaptability has allowed me to navigate the ever-changing demands of the automotive industry and the growth within LIQUI MOLY. By embracing change and learning new skills, I've been able to contribute effectively across various roles.

Perseverance has kept me focused on long-term goals, even when faced with challenges. Building new processes, workflows and teams can be daunting, but staying committed has led to rewarding results.

Collaboration has been key to fostering strong working relationships and creating a positive, productive team environment. By working closely with colleagues and embracing different perspectives, we've been able to achieve great things together.

These qualities have helped me grow both personally and professionally, allowing me to take on more leadership and make a lasting impact.

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments? 

ET: Being a woman in the automotive industry, one of the biggest challenges has been overcoming preconceived notions and stereotypes. Early on, I often encountered skepticism about my abilities, which made it necessary to prove myself repeatedly. However, this challenge also fueled my determination to succeed and excel in every role.

One specific accomplishment I'm particularly proud of was building a team and creating new processes at LIQUI MOLY when the company was in its early stages. Leading this initiative, while navigating industry challenges as a woman, gave me the opportunity to demonstrate my leadership and strategic skills. Seeing the tangible growth of the company, which I directly contributed to, was incredibly rewarding.

This experience not only helped me break barriers but also proved that diversity of thought and leadership brings innovation and growth. I'm proud of the strides I've made and how far the team and I have come, and I hope to inspire more women to pursue leadership roles in this industry.

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?    

ET: While I don't have a single, specific role model, I draw inspiration from multiple women in the industry who are making an impact. Over the years, I've been fortunate to meet many amazing women who have encouraged me to give my best and continue growing. One standout experience was attending a SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) event earlier this year. The opportunity to network and connect with so many talented women was incredibly empowering. I returned from that event feeling inspired and refreshed, with new insights and motivation to keep building my own network and strive for greater achievements. Learning from each other and seeing the success of women in the spotlight motivates me to push boundaries and pursue my goals.

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?  

ET: The best career advice I've received is to 'Own Your Voice and Expertise,' especially in a male-dominated industry. This advice has been transformative for me both professionally and personally, empowering me to confidently speak up, share my ideas, and advocate for myself and my team. While it can be challenging, as assertive women are sometimes unfairly labeled as 'difficult,' it's crucial to speak up when something is wrong or unfair. I've learned that setting boundaries and standing firm in my convictions not only helps ensure fairness but also earns long-term respect. This approach has helped me navigate tough situations with confidence and integrity.

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?  

ET: I didn't originally plan to work in the automotive industry; I stumbled into it by chance. However, after several years, I can confidently say that I love it. One of the things that keeps me here is the unique opportunity to work for a German company and connect with other German companies and their employees at industry events. What excites me most about the industry is the challenge it presents as a woman. I enjoy proving some of the doubters wrong and contributing to a change that will make it easier for the next generation of women. My goal is to help pave the way for more women to have a seat at the table, and I believe we're making great progress toward that vision.

SN: Who was the most influential person on your career goals?  

ET: The most influential person in my career has been my manager, Sebastian Zelger, CEO of LIQUI MOLY USA. He has always been in my corner—supporting, encouraging, and believing in me. His trust in my abilities has helped me grow both personally and professionally. I'm also deeply impressed by how he has led the company's growth since taking on his role. His journey, moving from Germany to the United States. as a young CEO, and overcoming the doubts of others, has been truly inspiring. Sebastian continuously demonstrates how much can be achieved with the right mindset, resilience, and dedication. His example has been a driving force in shaping my own goals and ambitions.

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Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website. 

By SEMA News Editors

Turn 14 Distribution to Announce Winner of BMW E91 GTS Tribute Wagon Giveaway at 2024 SEMA Show

 

 

Turn 14 Distribution will announce the grand prize winner of the "Pit+Paddock x Bilstein BMW E91 GTS Tribute" giveaway during the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8 in Las Vegas.

The giveaway marks the culmination of a six-month sales promotion where Turn 14 Distribution customers earned points by purchasing featured products from key vendor partner brands, including Bilstein, Akrapovič, Motul, StopTech, BBS, CSF, SPL Parts and Driveshaft Shop.

Seven customers were chosen as finalists and will represent their company at the SEMA Show, where one grand prize winner will be announced and get to take home the heavily modified 3-Series wagon.

The BMW giveaway vehicle started as a gutted 328i Touring and underwent a complete transformation inspired by the E92 M3 GTS coupe--a track-focused, special production M3 limited to 150 units and only sold in Europe.

Highlights of the build include M3 body panels, Fire Orange paint, top-of-the-line aftermarket performance parts, and a powerful 516hp, 4.6L V8 stroker engine.

Following its debut at last year's SEMA Show, the E91 traveled around the world to make impactful appearances at marquee events, including the PRI Show, the Goodwood Festival of Speed (United Kingdom), Ultrace (Poland), Bimmer Invasion (Florida) and Pit+Paddock Grid Icons (California).

The Pit+Paddock x Bilstein BMW E91 GTS Tribute giveaway ceremony will take place on Tuesday, November 5, at 4:30 p.m. PST inside the Turn 14 Distribution Booth #21303 in Central Hall. Attendees will also receive a sneak preview of the following two vehicles offered through Turn 14 Distribution's new sales promotion giveaway program.

For more information, visit turn14.com.

 

Yamaha to Exhibit Hydrogen-Powered Outboard, Roush Hydrogen Fuel System on a Regulator Boat Hull

 

Yamaha's Marine Business Unit will participate in the SEMA FutureTech Studio during the 2024 SEMA Show, where it will showcase its concept H2 outboard featuring a boat hydrogen fuel system designed by Roush on a Regulator Marine hull.

On Tuesday, November 5, at 12:00 p.m. PST, in the SEMA FutureTech Studio, Yamaha will be featured in a FutureTech Fireside Chat with Grant Suzuki, chief technology officer, Yamaha United States Marine Business Unit; Matt Van Benschoten, vice president of advanced engineering, Roush; and Don Seal, manufacturing engineer, Regulator Marine.

Click here for more information on the Fireside Chat.

Additionally, Suzuki will participate in the "Advanced Fuels and Powertrains: Current Landscape and Innovations" panel, scheduled for Wednesday, November 6, at 9:00 a.m. PST, in West Hall Room W309.

The panel will explain how the automotive specialty-equipment industry can help reduce carbon emissions by adopting various fueling technologies as it relates to the operation of internal combustion engines (ICE), as well as the innovative powertrains that will work alongside of electrification.

Click here for more information on the panel or to register for the session.

For more information, visit yamahaoutboards.com.

 

Ringbrothers to Unveil Three Custom Builds

 

 

Ringbrothers, the world-renowned custom car builder and parts manufacturer, is set to unveil three custom builds at the 2024 SEMA Show. The trio of debuts is expected to take the SEMA Show by storm as each build furthers innovation in engineering and celebrates the spirit of hot rodding.

Each vehicle represents more than 15,000 combined build hours and has been extensively modified to showcase Ringbrothers' signature automotive design, production and craftsmanship. The highlight is expected to be the 1,246 HP '87 Buick Grand National known as "INVADR."

VEHICLE DETAILS AND UNVEILING SCHEDULE:

"INFECTED" '70 Plymouth 'Cuda: Ringbrothers is taking a stand against the endless shades of gray saturating the modern car market with a high-impact color some may deem polarizing. Ringbrothers' '70 Plymouth 'Cuda boasts an 807 HP Hellcrate Redeye engine, manual transmission, extended wheelbase, custom cowl and firewall, fenders and so much more. "INFECTED" is a celebration of Mopar performance and vibrant color.

INFECTED will be unveiled on Tuesday, November 5, at 11 a.m. PST in the Ringbrothers Booth #23191.

"INVADR" '87 Buick Grand National: Ringbrothers has reimagined Buick's legendary Grand National into a 1,246 HP tarmac-devouring machine. A six-speed manual transmission backs the twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 and features ample custom touches, enhancing the G-Body's imposing silhouette.

INVADR will be unveiled on Tuesday, November 5, at 1 p.m. PST in the Gentex Booth #23889.

"TUKA" '72 Chevrolet Blazer: Engineered from the ground up as a thorough re-engineering of Chevrolet's iconic off-roader, the four-wheel-drive Blazer incorporates modern convenience and ample technology in a truly one-off machine. Every panel has been customized with bespoke components that showcase Ringbrothers' zealous attention to detail.

TUKA will be unveiled on Tuesday, November 5, at 1 p.m. in the Gentex Booth #23889.

 

Toyo Tires to Unveil 26 Custom Vehicles at Toyo Tires Treadpass for the 2024 SEMA Show

 

 

Toyo Tires will return to the SEMA Show with the attendee-favorite Toyo Tires Treadpass, a celebration of automotive innovation and creativity, featuring an incredible showcase of vehicles making their world debut. Treadpass is located between the Central and South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. For the 11th year, Toyo has collaborated with renowned builders to curate an unparalleled experience for SEMA attendees.

Treadpass will premiere 26 unique vehicles at this year's Show, from a fully custom '74 Rolls Royce to a '66 Ford Bronco Sport. Toyo Tires proudly showcases a wide variety of vehicles offering something appealing to every car enthusiast.

"Each year, the Toyo Treadpass display remains a highly popular destination thanks to the incredible builders we team up with to curate this unique car showcase at SEMA," said Stan Chen, senior manager, events, sponsorships and motorsports, Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp.

In collaboration with Leen Customs, Toyo Tires will be returning its popular limited-edition pins. Ten pins will be created for some of the Toyo Treadpass display vehicles, which will be distributed at designated times during the Show. An exclusive 11th pin will also be available during the "Artist's Meet" with Leen Customs founder, Hansel Echeverria, on Wednesday, November 6, from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. PST.

Celebrating SEMA, Toyo Tires is partnering with Zynga's NaturalMotion studio, the developers behind the popular CSR Racing 2 (CSR2) mobile video game. Fans will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite vehicle featured at Treadpass and the winner will be built into the CSR2 game.

"Toyo Tires is a prominent name in the automotive industry, so to bring one of their custom Treadpass vehicle builds to CSR2 is very exciting," said Julian Widdows, senior vice president of racing at Zynga's NaturalMotion studio. "Racing fans can bring their passion to life by voting on their favorite car and then taking the winning build into their own hands and racing it in-game."

For more information, visit toyotires.com. 

Preview of Select New Vehicle Builds at the Toyo Treadpass

SEMA News is able to share a few of the vehicles that Show attendees will be able to view at this year's Toyo Tires Treadpass.

'70 Ford Mustang by Tucci Hot Rods 

Originating from the world of high-end custom car building, Tucci Hot Rods has been crafting custom cars for over 25 years with an unwavering focus on design, attention to detail, and flawless execution. Their feature vehicle at this year's Treadpass is a '70 Ford Mustang that rides on Forgeline AL308 wheels wrapped in Toyo Proxes R888RTM tires. This build is powered by a 5.4L Super Cobra Jet engine and features 3D-printed aero components designed in collaboration with a Ford OEM designer. Additional highlights include a Griggs Racing suspension, Moore & Giles leather interior, and a custom paint job in BMW Dravit Gray.

 

'74 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow by Team Bisimoto

From 1000 HP minivans to twin turbo classic Porsches infused with modern technology, Team Bisimoto continues to astonish the automotive world. Among their latest creations are the world's first electric Porsche 935, fully electric Rolls Royce conversions, and dozens of high-performance electric vehicles for television and privateers. With exposure to the electric vehicle space, coupled with dozens of racing world records, Bisimoto is embarking on providing guilt-free, exhilarating mobility solutions for an emerging world. Their featured project at SEMA will be the '74 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, riding on 20x8 Brixton Forged Luxury Series LX01 Monoblock Wheels and Toyo Proxes Sport max performance summer tires. This build features a 639 HP (477 kW) single-drive custom AC 3-phase induction motor with liquid cooling, bespoke Bisimoto fabrication, and an AEM VCU275 controller with CAN BUS output, complemented by a Rywire LV harness. Powering the car are dual Bisimoto battery boxes with LG Chem 66K wH batteries. The Rolls Royce stands out with its chalk white exterior paint with a Tiffany blue leather interior. 

 

'06 Mercedes-Benz SLR by John Sarkisyan of S Klub

Artist turned car builder, John Sarkisyan of S Klub delivers another showstopping custom build, transforming a '06 Mercedes-Benz SLR showcasing his bold approach to reimagining an iconic car. The stunning build rides on HRE S107 wheels wrapped in Toyo Proxes Sport max performance summer tires. Highlights include chopping the top off the SLR, a 30-piece one-off body kit, widening the car by 10 inches over stock and fitting massive tires in the rear. Additional features are a custom windshield, full Audison sound system, custom hand-made stainless exhaust, and a custom interior.

 

'93 Honda Civic CX by Ryan Basseri

Ryan Basseri is the owner of Rywire Motorsports Electronics and serves as the judge and builder of SEMA's Battle of the Builders. His latest build featured at this year's Treadpass is a '93 Honda Civic CX with Toyo Proxes® R888RTM tires mounted on Volks Racing TE37 wheels. Top build highlights include a full resto-mod chassis build, a Rywire prototype EV conversion kit, and an Exceed Japan full exterior aero package. Additionally, the build boasts a bespoke motorsport plumbing and electrical system and a Nitron coilover suspension.

 

'66 Ford Bronco Sport by RMD Garage

Established in 2014, RMD Garage was founded in Long Beach, California, by Ralph Holguin. Driven by his enthusiasm and passion for car culture and his exceptional eye for design, he assembled a team of talented craftsmen to build extraordinary art pieces. Sharing his vision with the world, RMD Garage has put a stamp on the automotive industry with its signature builds. This year's featured build is a '66 Ford Bronco Sport, riding on 18x9 D-Town smoothies by Detroit Wheels paired with Toyo M655TM on-/off-road commercial-grade tires. Additional highlights include a Kincer Freeway series Bronco chassis, Ford Performance GEN 4X Coyote Motor, a standout BASF paint job, and handcrafted moldings, roof rack, badges and a custom interior.

 

'76 Toyota Celica by Shawn Bassett

A professional race car driver and talented car builder, Shawn Bassett makes his return to Toyo Tires Treadpass for his fifth time, showcasing his newest creation, a '76 Toyota Celica. The vehicle sits on BBS E55 center-lock wheels with Toyo Proxes R888RTM tires. Top highlights include a 700 HP (10,000 RPM) Toyota V12 engine, one-off custom carbon fiber bodywork, cantilever suspension, and bespoke leather and Alcantara upholstery.  

 

'22 Lexus IS500 by Giuseppe Balthasar

Giuseppe Balthasar was inspired by his father, Dana Balthasar, the creator of one of the most well-known Lexus RCF builds that debuted at Toyo Tires Treadpass in 2017. Seven years later, Giuseppe will showcase a '22 Lexus IS500 with one of the very first Artisan Spirits Black Label GT widebody kits. Riding on all-new Toyo Proxes max performance summer tires, the build features the complete widebody kit with a GT wing and a full Artisan Spirits titanium quad-tip exhaust. Additional highlights include a brand new Inozetek Ruby Star Dynamic PPF color change and a full range of TOM's Racing parts, including a carbon intake, filter, front and rear strut bars and braces. The vehicle will also be the first to debut the brand-new Zestek steering wheel hub adapter for any Lexus application.

 

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The SEMA Show, taking place November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the ultimate gathering for the automotive specialty-equipment industry. It is the place to discover new products and trends, make new business connections, strengthen existing ones, and help professionals take their careers and their businesses from good to great.

To learn more or to register to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Know where the candidates stand and what's at stake by watching SEMA's series of election guide videos, in which the organization's Washington, D.C.-based experts break down the race for president, U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.

Watch our four-video series here:

  

  

 

And if you're headed to the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, plan to vote before you depart. Learn more at sema.org/vote.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Know where the candidates stand and what's at stake by watching SEMA's series of election guide videos, in which the organization's Washington, D.C.-based experts break down the race for president, U.S. Senate and House of Representatives.

Watch our four-video series here:

  

  

 

And if you're headed to the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, plan to vote before you depart. Learn more at sema.org/vote.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

SEMA has launched Drive The Vote, a campaign to mobilize voters among its 7,000 member companies and the millions of American automotive enthusiasts, with resources to enable their participation in the 2024 general election. 

SEMA is providing vetted links to important voter information, questions to ask candidates during campaign events and social-media assets and sample messages to encourage their employees, customers and community members to register to vote. Industry members planning to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, which begins on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, are encouraged to vote early using the resources provided through Drive The Vote.

"Voting is an essential activity for our nation and for ensuring the automotive aftermarket industry has a say in the business undertaken by our lawmakers at the state and federal levels," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA's Drive The Vote campaign empowers our members and those around them with the information they need to vote in their community for the candidates who best speak for their values. And, because the 2024 SEMA Show starts on Election Day, we're encouraging those traveling to Las Vegas to review these resources, so they know how to vote early."

For more information, visit sema.org/vote.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

SEMA has launched Drive The Vote, a campaign to mobilize voters among its 7,000 member companies and the millions of American automotive enthusiasts, with resources to enable their participation in the 2024 general election. 

SEMA is providing vetted links to important voter information, questions to ask candidates during campaign events and social-media assets and sample messages to encourage their employees, customers and community members to register to vote. Industry members planning to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, which begins on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, are encouraged to vote early using the resources provided through Drive The Vote.

"Voting is an essential activity for our nation and for ensuring the automotive aftermarket industry has a say in the business undertaken by our lawmakers at the state and federal levels," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA's Drive The Vote campaign empowers our members and those around them with the information they need to vote in their community for the candidates who best speak for their values. And, because the 2024 SEMA Show starts on Election Day, we're encouraging those traveling to Las Vegas to review these resources, so they know how to vote early."

For more information, visit sema.org/vote.

By SEMA News Editors

 

As part of its long-term partnership with the SEMA Show, Mothers Polish has announced the return of its vehicle wipe-down program at the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas Convention Center. Booth vehicles, sponsored vehicles and featured vehicles are all eligible and will be cleaned each morning by the Mothers Polish detailing team using some of their finest car care offerings.

If you (or your organization) have a vehicle that will be displayed at the 2024 SEMA Show, and you'd like to be included in the complimentary Mothers Polish wipe-down service, apply online here. Entries will be limited to 200 vehicles on a first-come, first-served basis.

All participants in the program will receive a Mothers Polish decal. It must be displayed in a highly visible area on the car for the duration of the Show.

The program is in addition to Mothers' support of the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish (BOTB).

Now in its 11th year, the Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish is the industry's leading vehicle competition, providing an international platform for SEMA Show builders to showcase their ingenuity. 

With support from Mothers Polish, the 2024 SEMA 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

One finalist in one of these four categories will be crowned the overall BOTB champion during this year's SEMA Show.

The SEMA Show, taking place November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the ultimate gathering for the automotive specialty-equipment industry. It is the place to discover new products and trends, make new business connections, strengthen existing ones, and help professionals take their careers and their businesses from good to great.

For more information on the Mothers Polish wipe-down program, click here. For details regarding the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish competition, visit semabotb.com.  To learn more or to register to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com.

By Ashley Reyes

 

Business members attending the 2024 SEMA Show can enhance their experience and enjoy a range of exclusive perks by visiting the SEMA Business Member Lounge centrally located between the North and Central Halls.  

The member lounge, situated in the North Hall (Room N251), is designed to provide SEMA business members with a go-to stop for convenience and connection during the bustling SEMA Show. 

Here's why the lounge is a must-visit for member attendees: 

1. Networking Hub: SEMA business members can host important meetings with industry leaders and business partners in the comfort of this exclusive lounge. It's the ideal setting for meaningful connections and discussions. 
2. Tech and Connectivity: Need to stay connected? The lounge offers internet and printer services, ensuring that you're always equipped with the tools to stay productive during the event. 
3. Charging Stations: Don't let your devices run out of juice while capturing all of the jaw-dropping automotive moments at the show. Charging stations are available to keep your gadgets powered up. 
4. Complimentary Coffee: Enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee to recharge yourself while exploring the SEMA Show. 
5. On-Site Grab 'N' Go: Say goodbye to hunger pit-stops. The lounges offer delicious food options for purchase, allowing you to refuel before hitting the Show floor again. 

The member lounge is the perfect place to unwind, connect with industry peers and make the most of your SEMA Show experience.

If you're interested in securing a meeting room within the lounge, visit this link.

For questions about SEMA membership, contact the SEMA membership team at 909-610-2030 or at members@sema.org. 

Note: Non-exhibiting manufacturers and members otherwise eligible to exhibit are not permitted to use the meeting rooms.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8 in Las Vegas, is less than two weeks away! Showgoers can unlock the full potential of their upcoming SEMA experience by creating a My Show Planner account. (Looking for the SEMA Show app? More details on this below). The My Show Planner is a personalized tool that maximizes engagement and ensures a seamless event experience, November 5-8 in Las Vegas.

With a My Show Planner account, SEMA Showgoers can:

• Make a list of "must-connect" exhibitors and communicate with company contacts.
• Explore scheduled events and participate in select online education sessions. Save sessions and appointments to your calendar.
• Explore resources like exhibitor press releases, brochures, product details and videos.
• Plan your route around the Las Vegas Convention Center with the interactive floorplan, including exhibitor booth locations.

How to create a My Show Planner account for the SEMA Show:

Watch the video or follow the steps below!

 

• On the My Show Planner homepage, click "Create Your My Show Account." Refer to your SEMA Show registration email for a direct link to set up your planner or visit semashow.com to get started.
• Add your badge number, if available, and complete the necessary fields to enhance your profile with additional details to better connect with exhibitors who align with your interests.
• If you'd like to maximize your Show efforts, be sure to opt to share your information with the exhibitors by selecting "Yes" from the dropdown menu.
• Click "Create Your Free Account" to complete your My Show Planner setup.
• Once your account is created and you're signed in, you may access your SEMA Show planner anytime by clicking the "My Show Planner" link in the top navigation menu.

How to plan your SEMA Show:

While exploring the online floorplan, it's easy to add exhibitors, events, activations, products, collateral like press releases, contact information and recommendations to your list. Simply find the plus sign to add items to your Show planner!

• Exhibitors: Keep all your exhibitor interactions in one place by saving the ones you want to connect with. During the event, you can use My Show Planner to mark exhibitors you've already spoken to, add photos and take notes to prepare you for a successful year ahead. Browse SEMA Show exhibitors here.
• My Events: Similarly, the "My Events" tab keeps Showgoers organized by saving scheduled events like networking sessions, training, guest speakers, and more to your "My Events" calendar for easy tracking. Browse SEMA Show events here.
• Products: Explore the latest product features on an exhibitor's online listing. Add them to your planner for quick access, and conveniently find them categorized in your "Products" section. Browse SEMA Show products here.
• Collateral: Save press releases, white papers, brochures, case studies and related uploads from exhibitors to keep track of relevant announcements. Documents can also be downloaded and saved to your device. View SEMA Show collateral here.
• Online Contacts: Access and save exhibitor contact details, and easily reach out to contacts via email directly through your My Show Planner account. Save time and effort—no need for business cards here!

As you navigate the SEMA Show directory, be on the lookout for a notification in the top right corner of your screen. Clicking on it will lead you to Map Your Show recommendations, which are generated based on your activity. This AI-powered tool suggests opportunities aligned with your interests, helping you make the most of your SEMA Show.

The SEMA Show App

My Show Planner for the SEMA Show coexists with the SEMA Show app, meaning your SEMA Show plan is accessible across all platforms—desktop and mobile. To download the SEMA Show app, which includes all the features from My Show Planner plus turn-by-turn, real-time directions while on the SEMA Show campus, visit semashow.com/app.