By Juan Torres

The SEMA Show is the perfect backdrop for automotive aftermarket companies to make breaking news announcements as part of the official press conference schedule, which is promoted to media members before the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas Convention Center.

Submit a press conference application using this link before Friday, August 16, to be included in the 2024 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule. 

Many exhibitors also opt to utilize other tools and resources to reach media at the SEMA Show, including submitting a press release in the Exhibitor Online Media Center. 

To learn more about press conferences, the online media center or other PR resources available to SEMA Show exhibitors, visit the Public Relations Opportunities link or contact pr@sema.org.   

After submitting an application, exhibitors should receive an automatic email confirming that the application was received. Those who do not receive the automatic email may have experienced a technical problem and are encouraged to email pr@sema.org for assistance.  

By SEMA News Editors

The 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series schedule will feature three races celebrating a 25th anniversary in 2025 and culminate with the 60th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals in Pomona, California.

As previously announced, the 2025 campaign will open at legendary Gainesville Raceway in Florida for the third straight year, as the 56th annual NHRA Gatornationals kicks off the NHRA's 74th year of racing on March 6-9. The NHRA will commemorate 25 years of racing during both events at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway and Route 66 Raceway in Chicago, as well as the 65th anniversary of the Lucas Oil NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, the 40th anniversary at Firebird Motorsports Park in Phoenix, Texas Motorplex in Dallas, and Maple Grove Raceway in Reading, Pennsylvania, and the 15th anniversary of four-wide racing at state-of-the-art zMAX Dragway in Charlotte, North Carolina.

In all, the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series schedule currently includes 20 races at standout facilities across the country. Minus the prestigious NHRA U.S. Nationals on August 27-September 1 in Indy, which will feature five qualifying sessions, and the Virginia NHRA Nationals, which will again have three qualifying sessions on Saturday as part of a two-day event, every other race will include four overall qualifying sessions, with two on Friday and two on Saturday.

For the full details, visit the NHRA website announcement or visit nhra.com.

HOT ROD Power Tour West Announces 2024 Calendar

The HOT ROD Power Tour is returning to the West Coast in 2024, the traveling car show announced, for a five-city, five-day slate of events on October 7-11.

The HOT ROD Power Tour West, which debuted in 2023, is expanding with more than 1,000 miles of driving, drag racing, autocross, and live entertainment.

Events begin on Monday, October 7, at the In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Pomona, California, and conclude on Friday, October 11, at the Radford Racing School in Chandler, Arizona.

See the full 2024 HOT ROD Power Tour West schedule below:

• Day 1–Monday, October 7: In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip, Pomona, California (feat. drag racing)
• Day 2–Tuesday, October 8: Pechanga Arena, San Diego, California
• Day 3–Wednesday, October 9: Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio, California
• Day 4–Thursday, October 10: Windsor Beach, Lake Havasu, Arizona
• Day 5–Friday, October 11: Radford Racing School, Chandler, Arizona (feat. autocross)

For more information, visit motortrend.com/events/hot-rod-power-tour.

Mustang Week Adds Second 'Massive' Event for 2025, Mustang Week: Texas

Mustang Week has announced a new, "massive" second event to its lineup for 2025. Mustang Week: Texas will be held in Galveston, Texas, on April 23-27, 2025.

"For over 20 years, Mustang Week has captivated enthusiasts in Myrtle Beach, the Carolinas and surrounding states, becoming the biggest and best Mustang-only event in the country," said Director of Events Tom Myroniak.

Mustang Week: Texas will kick off Thursday, April 24, at the Motor Speedway Resort (MSR) Houston for a full day of road racing and go-karting. The following day, the festivities will move to Houston Motorsports Park for all-Ford and Mustang drag racing, burnouts and head-to-head "spectator drags" on the HMP circle track, while autocross and Ford club meet-ups will take place at Moody Gardens. A massive Friday Night Bash at Moody Gardens will ignite the weekend with drifting exhibitions, a burnout box, autocross, celebrities, music, food trucks and more. The event will head into the weekend at Moody Gardens for the Mustang Week: Texas Mustang-only car show on Saturday and an All-Ford and Mustang cruise-in on Sunday, as well as a performance marketplace on both days.

More than 5,000 Mustangs are anticipated to participate for a week of burnouts, drag racing, autocross, cruising and meet-ups.

Power Automedia revived Mustang Week in 2023 and has sought to expand, starting in 2024, with more features to the Myrtle Beach event as well as more locations.

"As for the original Mustang Week in Myrtle Beach, rest assured, MustangWeek fans, we are fully committed to bringing this iconic event back in 2025," stated Myroniak. "While we are still finalizing the plans, we promise that Mustang Week will return stronger than ever in the home of Mustang Week for more than 20 years. We are dedicated to ensuring that the Myrtle Beach event continues to be the premier gathering for Mustang enthusiasts."

For more information, visit mustangweek.com.

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Week is the ultimate celebration of car culture and the automotive aftermarket. This year, we're turning it up a notch, combining the entertaining musical vibes of SEMA Fest with all the incredible automotive attractions from the SEMA Show to create a true bucket list experience for car enthusiasts and music lovers in one place at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Get ready to wrap up the SEMA Show in style with a night of heart-pounding live music at the SEMA Fest concert on Friday, November 8. The stage will be packed with live performances by Cage the Elephant, Sublime, Fitz And The Tantrums, and Petey.

Tickets go on sale this Friday, July 19, at SEMAFEST.COM, so mark your calendars and sign up for alerts!

By SEMA News Editors

Overland Vehicle Systems

Sherpa Coverless Bi-Fold Design Roof Top Tent

Made from a 320g rip-stop poly-cotton fabric, the Sherpa roof-top tent features an aluminum honeycomb base and an easy-to-use coverless design, the manufacturer said, along with a blackout interior and integrated skylight. Other features include a cold-weather insulation kit, a premium foam mattress with an anti-condensation mat, marine-grade stainless steel hardware and more.

overlandvehiclesystems.com

AMSOIL

0W-8 Synthetic Hybrid Motor Oil

AMSOIL is now offering a 0W-8 viscosity fully synthetic hybrid motor oil, joining existing 0W-16 and 0W-20 viscosities in the product line. The new viscosity is engineered for applications calling for the JASO GLV-1 specification such as newer Toyota Corolla models equipped with the 2L engine and is purpose-built to combat issues common to HEV and PHEV vehicles, according to the company.

amsoil.com

Stinger Dash Cams

OPSIS

Stinger has introduced two OPSIS Dash Cameras, the OPSIS Universal 2K Quad HD Dash Cam System and OPSIS Universal HD Dash Cam System. With 2K or full-HD resolution, the Universal Dash Cam systems have ADAS features, an included rear camera and compatibility with the OPSIS app and PC viewer, which allow access to a live view and offer file management and cloud support from phone, computer or tablet.

stingersolutions.com

Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Former President Donald Trump selected U.S. Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH) on Monday, July 15, as his nominee for vice president, capping a lengthy audition process that will see Vance, 39, join Trump on the campaign trail immediately, particularly in the swing states of Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin.

Here's what SEMA and PRI members need to know about Sen. Vance as it relates to our industry:

• Vance is an EV skeptic. In the Senate, Vance has actively sought to protect the nation's market for gas-powered motor vehicles, arguing that Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles (EVs) represent a risk to the American workforce, seeking to repeal the $7,500 clean-vehicle tax credit. Sen. Vance introduced the "Drive American Act" (S. 2962), a bill that would provide tax incentives for U.S.-made vehicles that run solely on gas or diesel. He's regularly sparred with the Biden administration on environmental and energy policy and is expected to align closely with Trump's positions on ethanol and biofuels.
• He's a political newcomer. Vance first ran for elected office in 2022, winning a seat to represent Ohio in the U.S. Senate after gaining Trump's endorsement. Sen. Vance has developed a reputation for occasional bipartisanship, particularly on manufacturing and transportation issues.
• Blue-collar roots. Sen. Vance rose to prominence as the author of the New York Times bestseller "Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis," the true story of his upbringing in poor, working-class America. His background surrounded by divorce and substance abuse in Rust Belt Ohio gives him first-hand perspective into the people of that area and the challenges they face and informs his self-described populist views on jobs, manufacturing and the economy. Sen. Vance served in the Marine Corps from 2003 to 2007 and is an Iraq war veteran. He is a graduate of The Ohio State University and Yale Law School.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Former President Donald Trump selected U.S. Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH) on Monday, July 15, as his nominee for vice president, capping a lengthy audition process that will see Vance, 39, join Trump on the campaign trail immediately, particularly in the swing states of Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin.

Here's what SEMA and PRI members need to know about Sen. Vance as it relates to our industry:

• Vance is an EV skeptic. In the Senate, Vance has actively sought to protect the nation's market for gas-powered motor vehicles, arguing that Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles (EVs) represent a risk to the American workforce, seeking to repeal the $7,500 clean-vehicle tax credit. Sen. Vance introduced the "Drive American Act" (S. 2962), a bill that would provide tax incentives for U.S.-made vehicles that run solely on gas or diesel. He's regularly sparred with the Biden administration on environmental and energy policy and is expected to align closely with Trump's positions on ethanol and biofuels.
• He's a political newcomer. Vance first ran for elected office in 2022, winning a seat to represent Ohio in the U.S. Senate after gaining Trump's endorsement. Sen. Vance has developed a reputation for occasional bipartisanship, particularly on manufacturing and transportation issues.
• Blue-collar roots. Sen. Vance rose to prominence as the author of the New York Times bestseller "Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis," the true story of his upbringing in poor, working-class America. His background surrounded by divorce and substance abuse in Rust Belt Ohio gives him first-hand perspective into the people of that area and the challenges they face and informs his self-described populist views on jobs, manufacturing and the economy. Sen. Vance served in the Marine Corps from 2003 to 2007 and is an Iraq war veteran. He is a graduate of The Ohio State University and Yale Law School.

By SEMA News Editors

BMW X5 Caught With Neue Klass Styling

A recently spotted BMW X5 prototype hints at new styling for the SUV, according to new images provided by SEMA News sources.

Although not built on Neue Klasse architecture, the German manufacturer's new design language, the updated mid-size, luxury SUV features visual cues similar to those of the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X concept and the iX3 crossover.

The prototype seen in the new images is significantly larger than the BMW iX3 from previous spy shots and the Vision Neue Klasse X concept. It features a split rear window, potentially followed by a fourth window in the rear quarter-panel area, highlighting a longer wheelbase. The headlights and kidney grille--likely hidden under heavy camouflage--draw clear inspiration from the Neue Klasse X design.

The prototype spotted near Munich, Germany, also features door handles like those on the Neue Klasse concept cars, positioned at the base of the door pillars, as well as a charge port on the front left fender, indicating it's a plug-in hybrid. Additionally, BMW will replace the curved cockpit display with a large, centrally mounted screen.

The new BMW X5 is expected to begin production in Spartanburg, South Carolina, in 2026. Despite retaining the CLAR architecture, the electric iX5 will incorporate the sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology introduced with the Neue Klasse, according to sources, and will also feature advanced driver assistance systems, including Level-3 autonomy capabilities at launch.

Mercedes-Maybach SL Spied Testing in Germany

The new Mercedes-Maybach SL was recently spotted for the first time, according to SEMA News sources, indicating a convertible based on the Mercedes-AMG SL is set to join the Maybach lineup.

The prototype, photographed in Germany, is heavily camouflaged, particularly at the front and rear, where Maybach's design changes will be concentrated. Expect a new grille and revised bumpers, insiders said.

In addition to exterior design changes, interior personalization options will be significantly enhanced. The manufacturer will use premium materials for the cabin finishes, including upholstery and trim, and will also feature the latest technology from the current Mercedes-AMG SL.

Under the hood, the new Maybach convertible will be powered by one of the engines from the Mercedes-AMG SL range. The test unit captured in the photos does not feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain (PHEV). Instead, it spotlights the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine, capable of producing more than 550 hp.

The new Mercedes-Maybach SL will make its debut in early 2025, according to sources.

By Ashley Reyes

New webinars streaming July 24, August 14, August 21 and September 11 will enable industry professionals to increase their knowledge on pivotal topics shaping the current landscape and future of the specialty-automotive industry.  

Provided by SEMA Education, each webinar will feature subject matter experts from leading organizations sharing valuable insight and best practices that attendees can use to grow their careers, gain new perspectives and transform their business.     

Registration is open now for:

Making the Future of Mobility in Michigan  

Presenter: Justine Johnson, Chief Mobility Officer, Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, Michigan Economic Development Corporation

July 24, 2024, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

Register here.  

Michigan is making transformational investments and building effective public-private partnerships to develop smart infrastructure while enabling innovative mobility offerings for all. During this session, attendees will learn:

• How Michigan is shaping a mobility ecosystem that moves people and goods by land, water and air.
• Infrastructure solutions and developments being made in Michigan.
• Investments that Michigan is making to develop the infrastructure.

How to Exceed Customer Satisfaction With Daily Management

Presenter: Mario Iannantuono, Managing Partner, Quantum Leap Partners

August 14, 2024, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

Register here.

Need a refresher on best practices for building a better team and improving your business? This session will offer practical and proven methods to ensure your team exceeds customer satisfaction each and every day. Learning objectives include:

• Practical tools on exceeding your customer’s expectations.
• Practical visual tools on monitoring the success of the team.
• Practical visual tools on monitoring the areas of opportunity of the team.
• Practical visual tools on ownership, accountability and development of the team.

Tips for Thinking Like a Futurist

Presenter: Jennifer Brace, Chief Futurist, Ford Motor Company

August 21, 2024, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

Register here.   

Are you ready for the future? Many assume that tomorrow will look just like today, however, with the fast pace of change and the plethora of events outside of our control, the future is uncertain. During this session, attendees will gain tips for preparing for the uncertain future and thinking like a futurist. Key takeaways include:  

• Strategies to build a future of choice for your business and consumers.
• How you can own the way you prepare for the uncertain future through long-term thinking, planning and strategic development.
• Insightful tips and approach to plan and prepare for the future.

Reimagine Aftermarket Service: A Guide to Digitizing Your Operations for Success

Presenter: Manbir Singh, Digital Transformation Leader, Kyndryl

September 11, 2024, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.

Register here.

In today's competitive landscape, aftermarket service operations are no longer a mere afterthought; Customers are demanding faster, more efficient, and personalized service experiences. This webinar will teach attendees how to digitize their aftermarket service operations. During this session, attendees will learn:  

• How digital tools can streamline communication, improve service transparency, and personalize the customer journey.
• How automation, data-driven decision making, and real-time insights can optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve first-time fix rates.
• How leveraging digital technologies can differentiate your brand and unlock new revenue streams in the aftermarket service space.

Participating in these webinars is an excellent way to ensure your business has the tools and insight needed to succeed in the present and the future. Register today!

By Ashley Reyes

Attendees of the 2024 National Street Rod Association's (NSRA) Street Rod Nationals have a unique opportunity to take part in top-rated education through the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Days.

Taking place during the NSRA Street Rod Nationals event in Louisville, Kentucky, August 1-2, HRIA Education Days enables automotive builders and enthusiasts to attend free seminars where they will learn directly from manufacturing brands and companies. Twelve hot-rod brands will present processes and tips for working on hot-rod projects, giving participants the chance to connect with leading experts and gain insight into the manufacturers' product line.

The 2024 schedule includes 12 seminars, six seminars per day, each presented by a different manufacturer. Seminars include:

Thursday, August 1:

• 9:15 a.m.–10:15 a.m.: New Products & Options in Steering--Presenter: Flaming River
• 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.: The Basics of Hot-Rod and Musclecar Air Conditioning--Presenter: Vintage Air
• 11:45 a.m.– 2:45 p.m.: The Evolution of Transmissions: How Many Gears Do You Need?--Presenter: Bowler Performance Transmissions
• 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: Modern Suspension Technology for Your Classic Car--Presenter: Detroit Speed
• 2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m.: Instruments & Gauges: The Finishing Touch--Presenter: Classic Instruments
• 3:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.: Where the Rubber Meets the Ride--Presenter: Steele Rubber Products

Friday, August 2:

• 9:15 a.m.–10:15 a.m.: Tips on Grinding: Materials, Abrasives and Speed--Presenter: Burr King
• 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.: Making Your LS LT Installation Simple--Presenter: Speartech
• 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m.: How to Make Horsepower--Presenter: BluePrint Engines
• 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: The Hook Up: Steering Linkage, Connections & Components--Presenter: Borgeson
• 2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m.: Brake System Basics--Presenter: Wilwood Disc Brakes
• 3:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.: Learning the Basics of Fuel Injection--Presenter: Holley

All times EDT

HRIA Education Days is a part of the council's mission to ensure the prosperity and longevity of the hot-rod industry. Seminars are free to all NSRA Nationals attendees and pre-registration is not required. Descriptions of each seminar can be found at sema.org/hria-education-days.

To learn more about HRIA membership, visit sema.org/hria.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) named Ryan Rutledge, controls engineering manager at Air Lift Company, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

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

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

Ryan Rutledge: "The only bad decision is no decision." Both professionally and personally I use this mantra to move beyond roadblocks with confidence instead of being stuck in analysis paralysis. No one should be faulted for making a decision they can explain their reasoning [for]. If we can't make a choice, we can't make progress! 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

RR: The customers! I spend most weekends at events and it is so rewarding to see the excitement and ingenuity that customers have when interacting with products my teams have worked on. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

RR: A normal Saturday is spent behind my camera at a local show or track. Hobby photography has been a great way to blend the commercial and technical side of my career as an engineer with the artistic and creative side of the automotive aftermarket. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

RR: Note preparation independently, then a strategy huddle with my team to ensure a unified message and that all team members feel confident and included going in. 

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

RR: Charles Kettering who unfortunately passed in 1958. Not only did I attend his namesake university, but he was also an incredible industry pioneer. The genesis of the electric starter from Cadillac and Kettering after an industry leader's injury is one great example of his engineering prowess creating better lives. 

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