The spy photogs at Brenda Priddy & Company snapped what looks like a minor-model change for the Lexus GS, including a new front bumper and reshaped air intakes. Priddy also expects Lexus will add a new grille and redesign the head and taillights. This mid-cycle update will be its first freshening...

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has upgraded the side-impact protection standard for new cars and trucks. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 214 will now require that test vehicles be slammed sideways into a pole to determine how well they protect occupants...

HEAD WEST: The Champ Car World Series has announced a return to Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca next season. The event does not add a race to the schedule, as it will replace the San Jose Grand Prix, which has run in the streets of San Jose the past two years. A date for the race has not been announced.

NEWS NUGGETS

Creative Material Technologies Ltd. hired Bob Motyka to the company’s marketing team. In addition to his marketing role, Motyka will also provide application training for the company nationwide. Bob Motyka

The latest news from SEMA councils and committees: Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)

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As the foundation of the automotive specialty-equipment industry, hot rods and customs remain an integral part of the SEMA Show. In addition to hundreds of booths showcasing custom and specialty parts, tires and accessories for hot rods, visitors to Hot Rod Alley will be treated to some of the most...

Exhibitors, don't forget to let us know of any celebrity autograph sessions or booth appearances by contacting Lisa Schafer at lisas@sema.org. The following personalities are scheduled to appear at the 2007 SEMA Show: -Kenny Youngblood, motorsports artistSuperchips (Booth #24213), Tuesday—Thursday...

You are invited to find out where the youth market is headed by attending Sport Compact Council's (SCC) Youth Focus Panel during the NOPI Nationals, Saturday, September 15, 4:30 p.m.—6:00 p.m., Atlanta Motor Speedway, Infield Media Center. The event features dozens of young consumers speaking...