By SEMA News Editors
 

The 2024 SEMA Show was a major success, drawing attention from across the automotive industry for its showcase of new innovations and product launches. Manufacturers seized the opportunity to introduce their latest technologies and offerings, setting the stage for trends in the year ahead. Industry professionals were able to experience these cutting-edge products firsthand, gaining valuable insights and networking in the vibrant setting of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The event solidified its status as the premier platform for automotive advancements, creating a dedicated space where industry leaders and businesses could connect and inspire for the year ahead.

Relive the highlights of the 2024 SEMA Show through recap videos of the inaugural SEMA Live livestream, which offered viewers around the world unprecedented, up-close access to the show floor.

Watch the SEMA Live recap videos on the SEMA Show YouTube, and see below for the Show Day 4 video. Want to relive the SEMA Show all year long? Visit semagear.com to stock up on your favorite designs from this year's event! Free shipping on orders over $100 (restrictions may apply). 

 By SEMA News Editors

Numerous industry suppliers, distributors and individuals were recognized throughout the 2024 SEMA Show, highlighting their outstanding contributions to the automotive specialty-equipment market over the past year. Below is a roundup of this year's major award winners. 

SEMA Manufacturer of the Year: QA1

QA1 President and CEO Melissa Scoles accepts the SEMA Manufacturer of the Year honors during this year's SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast.

QA1 was named SEMA Manufacturer of the Year and Keystone Automotive was named SEMA Channel Partner of the Year at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Both companies were recognized at Tuesday's SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, celebrating their outstanding contributions to the automotive specialty-equipment industry over the past year.

"We are proud to honor QA1 and Keystone Automotive for their relentless dedication to advancing the industry," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "It takes hard work to drive meaningful change, and these companies have exemplified the teamwork, innovation, and service needed to propel the industry forward."

QA1 is an industry leader in high-performance suspension and driveline for the automotive aftermarket. From individual shock absorbers to suspension systems for entire vehicles, they are dedicated to designing and producing high-quality, cost-effective solutions across several markets. QA1's commitment to providing customers with high-quality product data, a passion for pushing boundaries and setting new standards, and investing in their employees through professional development opportunities are what made them the ideal recipient of this year's award. For more information, visit qa1.net.

SEMA Channel Partner of the Year: Keystone Automotive Operations

Keystone Automotive President Bill Rogers accepts the SEMA Channel Partner of the Year honors at the SEMA Kickoff Breakfast.

Keystone Automotive is a leading distributor and marketer of specialty automotive equipment and accessories, serving the diverse interests and needs of auto enthusiasts. With eight warehouses and multiple cross docks supported by their own fleet of trucks, their distribution network is second to none. The Channel Partner of the Year Award recognizes Keystone's ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of industry advancements, embracing new technologies and trends, and investing in cutting-edge logistics and inventory management systems that have revolutionized the way aftermarket parts are distributed, ensuring that customers receive timely and accurate deliveries. For more information, visit keystoneautomotive.com.

Person of the Year, Content Creator of the Year and Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Awards

Presented on November 7 at the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet, these awards honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the automotive aftermarket industry over a yearlong period. 

Person of the Year: Colby McLaughlin 

2023 SEMA Person of the Year Ian Lehn (left) presents the award to 2024 winner Colby McLaughlin (center) alongside Industry Awards Banquet Host Jarod DeAnda.

McLaughlin, president of Trim Illusion Inc., was awarded Person of the Year for his exceptional contributions and leadership in the automotive aftermarket industry. As a volunteer of the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) select committee for many years, he is now chair of the council, guiding PRO in creating valuable benefits that enhance the business practices and procedures of automotive restylers nationwide. In addition to his work with PRO, McLaughlin actively supports automotive education programs, has mentored aspiring designers and engineers, and generously contributes to charitable initiatives that benefit automotive enthusiasts and their families. 

Content Creator of the Year: ChrisFix  

ChrisFix accepts the award for SEMA Content Creator of the Year at the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet.

ChrisFix started his YouTube channel with the goal of helping people learn how to fix their car so they could save money and maybe even start a new hobby with cars. Since then, he has amassed 10.4 million subscribers on YouTube and has taught millions of people all over the world how to fix and maintain their car. Each video is a step-by-step, how-to style demonstration that he films, edits and publishes on his own. His content is concise with all of the essential information so anyone can follow along, from beginners to experts. 

Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award: Don Prudhomme

Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Don Prudhomme at the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet.

A drag racing legend, Prudhomme began his NHRA Top Fuel and Funny Car career in 1962, collecting the first of 49 career wins as a driver, good for fifth in NHRA history, and later became just the third owner/driver in series history to secure more than 100 total wins. 

By SEMA News Editors

Next year's SEMA Show will take place in the Las Vegas Convention Center, November 4-7, 2025.

The exhibit space rental agreement for next year's SEMA Show, scheduled for November 4-7, 2025, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is now available online here.

Exhibitors are encouraged to submit their agreements early to maximize their planning time for next year's show. Getting a jumpstart with early submission allows exhibitors to begin strategizing their booth design and marketing approach, fresh from this year's event.

Exhibitors: submit your 2025 SEMA Show exhibit space rental agreement here.

By SEMA News Editors

Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh, an automotive restyling shop in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, won the 2024 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge, a competition that raises awareness of the customization of new-model vehicles. Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh won the award for its accessory package for the '24 Toyota Rav 4 XLE Hybrid.  
 

Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh owner and PRO Cup Challenge winner Ray Bedner and the winning '24 Toyota Rav 4 XLE Hybrid.

Held at the 2024 SEMA Show by the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) SEMA council, the competition challenges automotive restylers to create and install an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. The main driver of the program is to show fellow restylers, dealers and accessory manufacturers the value of designing and offering a marketable package rather than a "one-time" vehicle. 

The winning vehicle is voted on by a panel of judges based on four criteria: marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity, and profitability.   

"The aftermarket gives the ability for people to have options, and it doesn't have to be extremely expensive, and it can be unique," said PRO Chair Colby McLaughlin. "Classic Soft Trim created a unique package with the branding 'northern lights' that really carried throughout the whole build. The judges liked the overlanding aspect, but it also wasn't so hardcore for somebody who just wants a cool look on their vehicle."  

The '24 Toyota Rav 4 XLE Hybrid includes: 

• Alea Leather Interior-Northern Lights  
• Alea Carbon Fiber Heating Pads 
• Ironman 4x4 Uber Lite Rooftop Tent  
• Ironman 4x4 2-in. ATS Suspension Lift Kit 
• Ironman 4x4 Front Bumper Guard  
• Ironman 4x4 7-in. Scope Driving Lights  
• Ironman 4x4 7-in. Scope Driving Light Covers (Amber)  
• Mickey Thompson Baha Boss A/T Tires (4)  
• Enkei Overland Wheels (4)  
• SeatbeltPlanet REWEB Seatbelts – Lime Green  
• Trim Illusion Mirror and Door Handle Caps 
• XK Glow LED Undercar Lights  
• VOXX 10-in. Smart TV Seatback System 
• Llumar Driver and Passenger Front Window Tint  
• TSS Roof and Accents Wrap & Badges  

"This award goes to my team, the vendors that helped us along the way, and the dealership that gave us this car. It's been a blast," said Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh Owner Ray Bedner.  
 

PRO Cup Challenge People's Choice Award winner, a '24 Toyota Land Cruiser LC250 built by Auto Trim Restyling of Ballwin, Missouri.

Auto Trim Restyling from Ballwin, Missouri, won the PRO Cup Challenge People's Choice Award, voted on by SEMA Showgoers. Auto Trim Restyling customized a '24 Toyota Land Cruiser LC250 that showcased accessories from Avery Dennison, Method Race Wheels, Nitto, ORACLE Lighting, Rigid Industries, Westcott Designs and Wheel Pros.  

Additional companies that competed in the PRO Cup Challenge were Auto Trim Design of Utah ('24 Hyundai Santa Fe), Automotive Concepts ('24 Chevrolet Silverado), Keystone Styling ('24 Ford F150), and MARS of Billings ('24 Ford Bronco).  

For information on the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), visit www.sema.org/PRO. 

By SEMA News Editors

At the 2024 SEMA Show, SEMA announced its industry-leading SEMA Magazine is now available to everyone for free in a digital format. Claim your subscription now for comprehensive Show coverage, including a look at the week's award winners, top new trends and all the people, cars and products that made a splash at the 2024 SEMA Show.

You can also stay ahead of the industry year-round with in-depth content, industry reports and insights, emerging trends and strategies, interviews with leading figures driving today's automotive aftermarket, and much more. 

How to Claim Your Free SEMA Magazine Digital Subscription

To claim your complimentary digital subscription to SEMA Magazine, follow these steps:

• Visit the link here.
• Once on the subscription page, enter the required information before clicking on "SUBSCRIBE." 
• After, you will immediately receive an email prompting you to verify your email and set up login credentials.
• Once this is completed, you will have access to all 2024 issues of SEMA Magazine, plus first access to upcoming 2025 coverage.
• To browse past coverage, select an issue of your choice. For preferred reading on mobile devices, click on any page, select the "T" at the bottom of your screen, and enjoy your issue of SEMA Magazine.

Claim your SEMA Magazine subscription today to be among the first to see the 2024 SEMA Show print coverage next year! For more information, visit sema.org.

The following message is from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola:

Dear SEMA Member:

A strong SEMA Board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. As a member of the Association, we are currently seeking your recommendation of industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors.

The following seats are open for this year’s election:

• Chair-elect (one open seat)
• Manufacturer (three open seats)
• Manufacturers Rep (one open seat)

Please take a moment and tell us whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a board member position by completing and submitting a nomination form. To help the vetting process, please include brief information about the nominee’s qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements that would make that nominee an outstanding board candidate.

Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors are due on Monday, January 6, 2025.

Submit a nomination HERE.

We urge you to take part in the nominations process. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the Board, but we need you to help bring them to the attention of the Nominating Committee. Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Sincerely,

Mike Spagnola

SEMA President and CEO

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

While the race for president was decided early, other races remain uncalled, particularly for state offices.  

While Republicans have gained control of the U.S. House of Representatives, a number of congressional races are still too close to call. In Maine's 2nd Congressional District, former race car driver Austin Theriault came up short in his bid to unseat Democratic incumbent Rep. Jared Golden. SEMA continues to monitor the remaining uncalled House races.  

Meanwhile, because state legislatures play a crucial role in regulating our industry, SEMA is closely monitoring the results in these races as well.  

State legislatures shape everything from emissions standards and vehicle modifications to safety requirements and small business policies. The 2024 election brought significant shifts in control across key state legislative chambers that directly influence policies impacting the automotive specialty market.  

Toss-up Wins 

Out of the seven chambers initially rated as "toss-ups": 

• Arizona Senate: Republican 
• Arizona House: Republican
• New Hampshire House: Republican 
• Michigan House: Republican (flip from Democratic control) 
• Minnesota House: Tied 
• Pennsylvania House: Democratic
• Alaska Senate (cross-partisan alliance): Still too close to call 

Party Control of Chambers: 

Republican-held: The New Hampshire Senate, Pennsylvania Senate, and Wisconsin Assembly each remained under GOP control. 

Democratic-held: Control of Maine's House is still too close to call. 

With control shifts in several competitive chambers, we anticipate changes in how states approach automotive policy. SEMA's Government Affairs team will monitor these developments and advocate for industry-friendly policies to protect members' interests and expand opportunities in all 50 states. 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

While the race for president was decided early, other races remain uncalled, particularly for state offices.  

While Republicans have gained control of the U.S. House of Representatives, a number of congressional races are still too close to call. In Maine's 2nd Congressional District, former race car driver Austin Theriault came up short in his bid to unseat Democratic incumbent Rep. Jared Golden. SEMA continues to monitor the remaining uncalled House races.  

Meanwhile, because state legislatures play a crucial role in regulating our industry, SEMA is closely monitoring the results in these races as well.  

State legislatures shape everything from emissions standards and vehicle modifications to safety requirements and small business policies. The 2024 election brought significant shifts in control across key state legislative chambers that directly influence policies impacting the automotive specialty market.  

Toss-up Wins 

Out of the seven chambers initially rated as "toss-ups": 

• Arizona Senate: Republican 
• Arizona House: Republican
• New Hampshire House: Republican 
• Michigan House: Republican (flip from Democratic control) 
• Minnesota House: Tied 
• Pennsylvania House: Democratic
• Alaska Senate (cross-partisan alliance): Still too close to call 

Party Control of Chambers: 

Republican-held: The New Hampshire Senate, Pennsylvania Senate, and Wisconsin Assembly each remained under GOP control. 

Democratic-held: Control of Maine's House is still too close to call. 

With control shifts in several competitive chambers, we anticipate changes in how states approach automotive policy. SEMA's Government Affairs team will monitor these developments and advocate for industry-friendly policies to protect members' interests and expand opportunities in all 50 states. 

By SEMA News Editors

See Featured Vehicles like this Corvette at the SEMA Cruise, today at 4:00 p.m. PST on Convention Center Drive.

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 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 navigate down Convention Center Drive to the West Hall parking lot. 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 8, 4:00 p.m. PST
  • SEMA Show Campus (down Convention Center Drive to the West Hall parking lot).
  • ​​​​​​No cost or RSVP required to attend.

For more information, visit semashow.com.

By SEMA News Editors

At the 2024 SEMA Show, SEMA has announced its industry-leading SEMA Magazine is now available to everyone for free in a digital format. Claim your subscription now.

Stay ahead of the industry with in-depth content, industry reports and insights, emerging trends and strategies, interviews with leading figures driving today's automotive aftermarket, and much more. 

How to Claim Your Free SEMA Magazine Digital Subscription

To claim your complimentary digital subscription to SEMA Magazine, follow these steps:

• Visit the link here.
• It will direct you to the subscription page, where you will enter the required information before clicking on "SUBSCRIBE." 
• After, you will immediately receive an email prompting you to verify your email and set up login credentials.
• Once this is completed, you will have access to all 2024 issues of SEMA Magazine, plus first access to upcoming 2025 coverage.
• To browse past coverage, select an issue of your choice. For preferred reading on mobile devices, click on any page, select the "T" at the bottom of your screen, and enjoy your issue of SEMA Magazine.

Claim your SEMA Magazine subscription today to be among the first to see the 2024 SEMA Show print coverage next year! For more information, visit sema.org.