By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) invites SEMA members under 40 to its Pizza and Professionals Networking Reception. The event will take place following the FLN Professional Development Program (PDP) at the SEMA Garage Detroit in Plymouth, Michigan, on May 9, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. EDT.

FLN networking events are a great opportunity to grow one's professional network in a relaxed setting, as well as discover resources designed to help young professionals succeed in the industry. FLN select committee leaders will be on-site to share information about the network's current projects, resources for members and ways to get involved. 

Pizza and refreshments will be provided. Registration is required.

Register here.

By SEMA News Editors

Attendee, buyer and media registration opens on Monday, April 28. Here's why you should secure your badge as soon as possible.

Attendee registration for the 2025 SEMA Show--November 4-7, Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas--opens online next week on Monday, April 28. The future of automotive innovation will come into focus once again at the SEMA Show, which will offer an attendee experience like no other trade show on the planet. It's the best place 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 by attending education sessions--all of which are led by top industry professionals.

Organizers recommend attendees register and book their hotels as soon as possible to start planning the best SEMA Show experience for you and your business.

"SEMA Show planning is already in full swing, and we're focused on delivering an even more impactful experience for attendees, buyers and automotive pros in 2025," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "We always encourage early registration—it not only saves money, but it also gives Showgoers first access to exclusive opportunities, event announcements and travel perks. The earlier you're in, the more prepared and successful your SEMA Show experience will be."

A SEMA Show badge comes with first-hand access to thousands of brands and industry professionals across the Las Vegas Convention Center, along with access to:

• The SEMA Show's No. 1 buyer destination--the New Products Showcase--which displays the latest, most innovative products across 18 industry categories.
• Thousands of the latest vehicle builds of all types on display with the SEMA Feature Vehicle Displays and the Overland Experience.
• Glimpses of our industry's future with areas dedicated to new technology, such as the Collision Repair & Refinish Stage with hands-on welding demos and presentations; areas celebrating car culture; and much more.
• Unique experiences and events, including the SEMA Show Kick-Off Breakfast, the SEMA Battle of the Builders, the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet, SEMA council and network receptions, the SEMA Cruise and more automotive and motorsports activations.
• Numerous networking opportunities with dedicated meetings and events.
• Complimentary and paid education sessions across several unique tracks designed to boost businesses and careers.
• A member lounge to connect and regroup across the SEMA Show campus. (Only open to active SEMA members.)
• The adjacent Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) Show.
• Much, much more!

SEMA is dedicated to making the Show as cost-effective as possible for all. By registering early, attendees can take advantage of the best rates and receive all the necessary information for planning their SEMA Show experience. 

Register for only $50 from registration's opening on April 28 through Friday, June 27. Pricing will increase to $75 per badge on Saturday, June 28, and to $100 after Friday, September 26.

SEMA Showgoers are also strongly encouraged to secure their housing online here through onPeak, SEMA's only official hotel provider. Booking a 2025 SEMA Show hotel through onPeak allows attendees and exhibitors to claim hotel loyalty rewards points and book their entire group online with immediate confirmation--knowing they've secured the lowest rate without needing to browse the web for hours.

Additional information can be found at semashow.com/attendee. Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2025 SEMA Show and visit semafest.com to sign up for updates on SEMA Fest, which will return to the SEMA Show campus on Friday, November 7.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Mark your calendars because the SEMA California Rally is back! On June 11, 2025, SEMA-member companies across the Golden State are invited to join us in Sacramento for a day of advocacy and innovation.

This isn't just another event--it's your chance to make a real difference for the automotive aftermarket industry. From supporting cutting-edge vehicle technologies to advocating for crucial manufacturing incentives, the SEMA California Rally is where our voices turn into action.

This year's Rally is open to all SEMA-member companies based in California, and registration is officially live. Click here to secure your spot and find all the details you need, including lodging information.

By attending the SEMA California Rally, you're not just joining an event--you're becoming a part of a movement dedicated to the growth and innovation of our industry.

Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Join us in Sacramento on Wednesday, June 11, and let's drive change together.

For more information, contact SEMA Senior Manager of State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Mark your calendars because the SEMA California Rally is back! On June 11, 2025, SEMA-member companies across the Golden State are invited to join us in Sacramento for a day of advocacy and innovation.

This isn't just another event--it's your chance to make a real difference for the automotive aftermarket industry. From supporting cutting-edge vehicle technologies to advocating for crucial manufacturing incentives, the SEMA California Rally is where our voices turn into action.

This year's Rally is open to all SEMA-member companies based in California, and registration is officially live. Click here to secure your spot and find all the details you need, including lodging information.

By attending the SEMA California Rally, you're not just joining an event--you're becoming a part of a movement dedicated to the growth and innovation of our industry.

Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Join us in Sacramento on Wednesday, June 11, and let's drive change together.

For more information, contact SEMA Senior Manager of State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Mark your calendars because the SEMA California Rally is back! On June 11, 2025, SEMA-member companies across the Golden State are invited to join us in Sacramento for a day of advocacy and innovation.

This isn't just another event--it's your chance to make a real difference for the automotive aftermarket industry. From supporting cutting-edge vehicle technologies to advocating for crucial manufacturing incentives, the SEMA California Rally is where our voices turn into action.

This year's Rally is open to all SEMA-member companies based in California, and registration is officially live. Click here to secure your spot and find all the details you need, including lodging information.

By attending the SEMA California Rally, you're not just joining an event--you're becoming a part of a movement dedicated to the growth and innovation of our industry.

Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Join us in Sacramento on Wednesday, June 11, and let's drive change together.

For more information, contact SEMA Senior Manager of State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

Planning for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas, is well underway, with Show organizers looking ahead to the booth space selection process that will begin on Tuesday, April 29. (Need a booth? There's still time to secure your spot on the 2025 SEMA Show floor, the best place to discover new domestic buyers and get your brand in front of influential members of the media. Learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor and sign up here). Following are some best practices for exhibitors to consider as we approach the process that designates where exhibitors will be on the Show floor.

• If You Want Someone Else to Select for You

Fill out the proxy form at semashow.com/proxy.

If you, or your designee, are not available when called, the best available space will be selected for you by Show Management.

• Review the Online Floorplan Early

The 2025 SEMA Show floor plan will be available for viewing at SEMAShow.com/floorplan on Friday, April 25.

• Open the Online Floorplan Before the Call

The floorplan is updated approximately every 30 minutes during space selection process, so you must refresh your browser before your call time.

• When We Will Call You

You will receive an email with the date and time of your appointed selection call with a SEMA sales representative.

Note: you may be contacted up to 15 minutes prior and 30 minutes after the assigned timeframe. We will not call before 8:00 a.m. PDT.

You will be selecting at the same time as other companies, so it is imperative that you be ready to select your exhibit space at the time you are called. If possible, have all decision-makers on the call to review your options.

• Confirm Your Space

Check the online floor plan 30 minutes after you select your booth to ensure your company name is in the booth you selected. We will also send you a confirmation letter shortly after you choose your space. Please review the letter carefully to ensure you received the space agreed upon over the phone. We will include a pillar diagram if any pillars affect your booth.

• Plan Your SEMA Show

After your booth is secured on the floorplan, it's now time to plan for a successful SEMA Show. The sooner you plan, the better. SEMA News will cover the best tips and practices in the coming months, but note that the Exhibitor Summit, a free program from June 25-27 in Vegas, is the best way to get the most ROI. Exhibitors new and returning, can take advantage of SEMA value-added programs; use proven strategies to attract buyers to your booth; save money and resources on Show costs, such as material handling, electrical and related Show expenses; work one-on-one with Show experts to maximize your ROI; learn to properly plan and budget expenses and explore promotional opportunities through sponsorships and other methods. Hotel rooms will be provided for up to two guests in this valuable program; you can't afford to miss it!

Learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit and register for the program here.

Questions? Call 909-396-0289 or email sales@sema.org

By SEMA News Editors

3DATX Corporation is partnering with SEMA Garage to provide its member companies with an effective solution for emissions compliance testing.

The new program, called proSYNC, will allow member companies to use the integrated Portable Emissions Measurement System (iPEMS), which is a portable, compact, accurate and affordable solution to those members looking to pursue emissions compliance. The system samples tailpipe emissions and provides up to 1 Hz reporting of NO₂, NO, CO₂, CO, HC, O₂, PN and PM. The test unit can be installed on a vehicle in under 30 minutes and data can be reviewed in real-time on the laptop provided.

Partnering with SEMA Garage also allows SEMA member companies to benefit from an experienced emissions test support team. Members have the option of renting the unit for independent use or partnering with SEMA Garage for setup, testing and even analysis services.

"This partnership adds a crucial tool to our member's arsenal. Whether they are calibrating, simply testing new hardware or trying to build an elaborate emissions catalog, the 3DATX proSYNC provides a cost-effective solution for our members to have confidence when they head to the laboratory for certification testing," said Jim Moore, SEMA vice president of OEM and product development. "In line with its mission, SEMA Garage's partnership with 3DATX benefits its member companies with reduced rental costs to help manage development resources."

"3DATX is excited to partner with SEMA Garage on the development of the proSYNC program," said David Miller, founder and executive director of 3DATX Corporation. "proSYNC is a cost-efficient tool to evaluate improvements and changes to fuels, engine configurations and aftermarket parts that will save significant time and money."

To further support SEMA members who are proactively seeking compliance opportunities, the 3DATX proSYNC provides the accuracy and data needed when considering participation in state or federal Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEPs).

A SEP is a voluntary agreement with a government enforcement agency that are not otherwise legally required (at the federal, state or local level), but are included as part of an enforcement settlement as they are intended to provide a tangible environmental or public health benefit. A SEP is a factor that is considered in determining a settlement penalty.

For more information on this partnership, visit 3datx.com/prosync or semagarage.com.

By SEMA News Editors

DRT Motorsports Announced as Title Sponsor of Sand Sports Super Show

Bonnier has announced a new partnership with DRT Motorsports, which will become the title sponsor of the Sand Sports Super Show in Costa Mesa, California. DRT Motorsports carries a wide selection of side-by-side (SxS) vehicle parts and accessories to add safety, protection and aggressive styling to SxS vehicles. Products include Polaris, Can-Am and Kawasaki SxS parts and accessories.

"We're thrilled to extend our partnership with DRT Motorsports as the title sponsor of the Sand Sports Super Show. Their commitment to innovation and passion for the off-road community aligns perfectly with our vision as we go into this 26th year," said Tracy Feinsilver, senior vice president of Events for Bonnier. "Together, we're set to elevate the Sand Sports Super Show experience, offering enthusiasts an unforgettable three-day event made up of industry experts, live demos, and fun for the whole family."

DRT Motorsports has been a partner of the Sand Sports Super Show since starting as an exhibitor in 2021. The retailer later signed on in 2024 as the presenting sponsor for the event and will now move forward as title sponsor through 2027.

The DRT Motorsports Sand Sports Super Show, set for September 19-21, at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, brings together an industry-leading collection of sand sports and off-road companies, parts, equipment and gear manufacturers--as well as industry insiders and experts.

For more information, visit sandsportssupershow.com.

Valentine Performance Detailing Expands With New Pro Polishing and Garage Protection Solutions

Celebrated racer, entrepreneur and automotive innovator Richard "RJ" Valentine is taking Valentine Performance Detailing (VPD) to the next level with an extensive expansion of its premium car care collection. In the year since its launch, the company has already gained a strong following for high-performance detailing solutions. In fact, the VPD line is now sold in pro shops at some of the nation's top race tracks, including New Jersey Motorsports Park. Today, VPD has more than doubled its offering to meet the diverse needs of car owners, collectors, enthusiasts and professionals alike. New introductions range from vehicle finish-enhancing products to garage protection solutions and a proprietary brand of spill containment absorbents.

At the core of this expansion is a selection of advanced polishing products featuring high-density foam polishing pads in a variety of sizes and strengths from ultra soft to firm, low lint lambswool orbital detailing pads, glass polishing and microfiber cutting pads, as well as polishing compounds and orbital tools designed to be best-in-class. VPD's premium polish formulations are designed to deliver showroom-quality results.

In addition to car care, the VPD collection now includes Garage Gloss, a revolutionary polymer-based finish that delivers long-lasting shine for a wide variety of floor types. Its durable, quick-curing formula ensures floors stay glossy and protected.

"As someone who has spent a lifetime around high-performance vehicles, I know firsthand the dedication it takes to keep them in mint condition," said Valentine. "This expansion ensures that whether you're detailing a race car, showroom vehicle or classic automobile, you have access to the very best tools to achieve perfection and maintain a pristine environment."

Adding to the innovation, Valentine is also the founder of FlashDry, America's fastest-growing spill containment company. FlashDry is known for its organic coir absorbent and full range of pads, mats, and spill kits, all designed to clean up oil, grease, gas, paint or other liquids to maintain safe automotive environments.

"After witnessing the dangers of inhaling toxic dust from clay-based absorbents on race tracks, I developed FlashDry as a safer, more effective way to clean up spills." Valentine explains, "FlashDry is 100% natural yet ultra-absorbent, making it ideal for any setting. Now, VPD is bringing this industry-leading absorbent technology to garages and workspaces everywhere."

With this expansion, VPD continues to redefine vehicle maintenance. The widely diverse collection aligns with Valentine's vision for automotive excellence, blending cutting-edge technology with ease of use. From achieving a flawless finish to keeping garages spotless, VPD is establishing a higher benchmark in car care.

Explore the full Valentine Performance Detailing collection on the official VPD website and contact info@valentineperformance.com for distributor and reseller inquiries.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA's efforts to ensure technology-neutral government policies are enshrined in states' laws took a major step forward in West Virginia last week.

The West Virginia legislature passed SEMA-supported legislation prohibiting the state from restricting the use, purchase or sale of motor vehicles based on their energy source, i.e. electric-vehicle (EV) mandates that would ban internal-combustion engines. The "ban the ban" bill will now make its way to Governor Patrick Morrisey's desk, where he is expected to sign the bill into law.

SEMA is not anti-EV; rather, it champions a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity. The association will continue efforts at the federal and state levels to preserve Americans' rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry's ability to design, manufacture and bring to market products that help solve the emissions challenge.

For more information, contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at tierrah@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA's efforts to ensure technology-neutral government policies are enshrined in states' laws took a major step forward in West Virginia last week.

The West Virginia legislature passed SEMA-supported legislation prohibiting the state from restricting the use, purchase or sale of motor vehicles based on their energy source, i.e. electric-vehicle (EV) mandates that would ban internal-combustion engines. The "ban the ban" bill will now make its way to Governor Patrick Morrisey's desk, where he is expected to sign the bill into law.

SEMA is not anti-EV; rather, it champions a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity. The association will continue efforts at the federal and state levels to preserve Americans' rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry's ability to design, manufacture and bring to market products that help solve the emissions challenge.

For more information, contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA's senior manager for state government affairs, at tierrah@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock