Actor Sung Kang To Host Reimagined SEMA Industry Honors At The 2025 SEMA Show

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.16.25) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is preparing to host its annual celebration of industry excellence under a new name and a new format. Formerly known as the SEMA Show Banquet, the event will debut as SEMA Industry Honors at the 2025 SEMA Show, taking place Thursday, November 6, at the BleauLive Theater inside the Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

Hosted by Sung Kang – actor, filmmaker, and lifelong car enthusiast best known for his portrayal of Han in “The Fast & The Furious” franchise – the reimagined SEMA Industry Honors will transform from a traditional seated banquet into an engaging awards-show experience that reflects the automotive aftermarket’s spirit of innovation. Beyond the screen, Kang has built a career defined by storytelling and his deep connection to car culture, making him the perfect host for the industry’s biggest night.

The event will celebrate many of the industry’s most influential leaders and creators, including the prestigious Person of the Year and Content Creator of the Year awards.

Sung Kang

“The SEMA Show is about pushing boundaries and setting new standards for the industry,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “Renaming and reimagining this event as SEMA Industry Honors aligns perfectly with our philosophy of growth and innovation. This new format will better showcase the incredible people, talent, and creativity that drive our industry forward.”

The evening kicks off at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception sponsored by Fifth Third Bank, followed by the Industry Honors awards program at 7 p.m., and concludes with an exclusive afterparty at 9 p.m. featuring live entertainment, cocktails, and late-night fare. (Reception and afterparty will include heavy appetizers; dinner will not be served.)

“Our goal is to create an environment that feels as exciting and inspiring as the people we’re honoring,” said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “Moving to the BleauLive Theater and introducing a revised, dynamic format ensures that attendees will experience a new celebration worthy of the industry’s biggest night.”

SEMA Industry Honors Tickets
SEMA Show exhibitors can redeem complimentary tickets (1 for every 10×10 booth space purchased) in the Exhibitor Resource Center. Additional tickets are available for purchase for $50. Show attendees can purchase tickets during registration, or by logging into the Registration Resource Center. For more information, visit http://www.semashow.com/honors.

There’s Still Time to Register for the 2025 SEMA Show
Qualified attendees are encouraged to register now to maximize their ROI. Hotel reservations at guaranteed low rates are available exclusively through SEMA’s official hotel provider, onPeak at www.semashow.com/attendee.

Spaces are still available for companies interested in exhibiting and connecting with tens of thousands of qualified buyers. For more information, visit www.semashow.com/exhibitor.

MasterTech Expo 2026 Registration Now Open – Early Bird Savings Available

Held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, AZ, MasterTech Expo, the Industry’s Premier Event for Training, Innovation, and Networking, Will Include a Host of New Opportunities for Returning and New Attendees

TEMPE, AZ (10.15.2025) – MasterTech Expo is proud to announce that registration is now open for MasterTech Expo 2026, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz. Attendees can take advantage of early bird pricing for a limited time.

“The 2025 Expo was our biggest and most successful event to date, with packed classes, incredible engagement, and valuable product launches,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, CEO, and president of Mobile Solutions. “We took the feedback from attendees, manufacturers, and educators seriously, and as a result we’ve built 2026 to deliver an even stronger, more impactful experience.”

What’s New for 2026

  • Attendees can look forward to a series of new features and expanded opportunities, including:
  • Outdoor kickoff party with a massive video wall, live music, and dinner
  • Earlier manufacturer training slots to increase accessibility
  • Extended Sunday electives for deeper hands-on learning
  • Expanded hotel blocks for easier accommodations
  • A car show element featuring Dino’s Git Down, bringing added energy and foot traffic
  • Project-based workshops designed for real-world application
  • All meals included (breakfast, lunch, dinner) for attendees and exhibitors
  • Sunday awards ceremony celebrating industry excellence

“MasterTech is more than a trade show, it’s a community,” Schmitt added. “We combine hands-on training, industry insights, and product innovation in a way that connects directly with what professionals want and need. That’s why manufacturers and attendees alike choose MasterTech as their go-to event.”

Don’t miss out on four days of high-value training, networking, and inspiration. Secure your spot now and lock in early bird pricing.

Register today at www.mastertechexpo.com

PowerBass Tesla OE Direct Fit Series In Stock Now

ONTARIO, CA (10.15.25) – Making any stock factory sound system sound fantastic is now a simple task with our OEM drop in replacement speakers for your TESLA Model 3, Model Y or CYBERTRUCK including the new HIGHLAND and JUNIPER Models!!

PowerBass OEM Speakers have been tested to ensure great OEM drop in plug and play design. The Tesla T3Y Models provides an easy drop in plug and play solution for multiple locations such as the 8″ Front Door ki, the 4″ Dash or Center Kit or the Rear Door Kit Solutions. With the PowerBass OE Direct Fit Tesla T3Y Series Immediately you will notice the added bottom end response in your front doors and great over all improvement to the factory sound profile, all without any worry of installation troubles thanks to our drop in plug and play design. The OE8C-T3Y and OE40CN-T3Y also come with replacement 1″ Silk Dome tweeters that simply plug directly into the factory harness with an in-line Crossover Network to ensure a smoother response curve rounding out the total factory upgrade experience!

With the PowerBass OE Series there is no need to drill holes, or cut wires thanks to our simple plug and play design that matches the factory bolt locations and plug styles for one of the fastest upgrades ever!

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

SEMA Show Deepens Investment in Next-Gen Builders with BFGoodrich-Sponsored Young Guns Program

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.15.25) – SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Polish, the automotive industry’s premier vehicle showdown, is back at the SEMA Show this year with its reimagined Young Guns program, now sponsored by BFGoodrich. The revamped initiative shines a spotlight on the Top 10 BFGoodrich Young Guns finalists, featuring a live, on-stage judging session that highlights the next wave of automotive innovators.

In previous years, the Top 10 and Top 3 finalists in each competing category were selected by industry judges. Now, the Top 10 BFGoodrich Young Guns finalists present their builds live on stage to each other, and the builders vote for the Top 3 who move on to the championship round, alongside finalists from the other Battle of the Builders categories. This year’s live competition will be held in the North Hall (Booth #10168) of the Las Vegas Convention Center and hosted by Adrienne Janic (“AJ”) from Overhaulin’.

“We’re dedicated to advancing this competition and cultivating the next generation of builders who will help shape the future of the automotive aftermarket,” said RJ de Vera, SEMA Vice President of Marketing. “With BFGoodrich as the official sponsor of the Young Guns program, we’re amplifying opportunities for these talented builders to gain recognition and accelerate their careers.”

Launched in 2016, the Young Guns category recognizes automotive builders 29 years and younger who show exceptional skill and creativity. Beginning in mid-September, BFGoodrich Young Guns hopefuls will have a chance to be selected to participate in a virtual corral and competition where winners will receive a prize package that includes transportation of their build to the SEMA Show, as well as travel and hotel accommodations. This provides a unique opportunity for young builders to get their foot in the door and accelerate their career trajectory in the industry.

Now in its 12th year, SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mother’s Polish remains one of the world’s top platforms for builders to showcase their innovation and craftsmanship in the automotive aftermarket. The competition spans four categories:

  • Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck
  • 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road
  • Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic
  • BFGoodrich Young Guns

The four class champions from each category compete for the coveted Battle of the Builders Best Overall Build title.

Judges review all qualifying applications, including detailed vehicle descriptions and photos, before evaluating the builds in person at the SEMA Show. The Top 10 finalists in each category are narrowed down to three, with BFGoodrich Young Guns finalists determined by their peers. These 12 finalists then take on the role of judges themselves, helping to decide the category winners and the overall champion.

“The SEMA Show is where the aftermarket industry comes together to celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “The Battle of the Builders program, particularly the Young Guns category, truly captures the energy and passion that pushes our industry forward.”

For more details about SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Polish and the BFGoodrich Young Guns program, visit www.semabattleofthebuilders.com.

The 2025 SEMA Show will be held from Nov. 4-7 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge products, forge new business connections, and gain insights into the latest trends in the aftermarket industry. For more information and to register, visit www.semashow.com.

All enthusiasts are invited to experience SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public on Friday, Nov. 7, along with SEMA Fest. A variety of ticket options are available on SEMAFest.com. The Show excitement and action can also be followed throughout the week on SEMA Live streamed via YouTube and Meta.

IASCA Worldwide Wraps 2025 World Finals Events

BIRMINGHAM, AL (10.14.25) IASCA Worldwide Inc has successfully finished their World Finals Event. The Finals event started with a West Satellite SPL event in Salem, Oregon on Sept 28, and wrapped up with a the SQ and SPL event in Birmingham, Alabama on October 11 and 12.

IASCA would like to thank their sponsors – trophy premium sponsor Kicker, JL Audio, Italia HiFi, Florida Sound Quality, B2, Bee Busy Audio, Soundqubed, Crystal Audio Solutions, USAcoustics, Valhalla RC, Sundown, XS Power, All Clear Glass and Audio, OD Car Audio and RC Plus.

IASCA booth setup at the West Coast Satellite Finals in Salem, OR

Also thanks to our judges and support staff, Andrea Paulson, Calvin Thomas, Christle Perry, Curtis Helms, Drew Chin, Frankie Smith, Gord Stansell, Harold Jones, Harry Kimura, Imraz Ali, Jen Astin, Jeremy Price, Jeremy Taylor, Joey Perry, Keith Turner, Mazana Ali, Mike Astin, Ray Pimley, Salvador Vargas, Scott Sinde, Shazad Rahaman and Troy Loferski.

The event floor and Finals SQ area at the Finals in Birmingham.

The Salem location was held indoors at the Oregon State Fair and Exposition. In Alabama at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex, over 100 vehicles were inside the venue, competing in a combination of IASCA, EMMA, MASQ, ISPLL, MECA SQ, dB DRA or MOB Inc events.

MOB Inc co-hosted the venue with a car show, featuring exotic and classic cars, including Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches and a pair of Ford GT40s.

An IASCA SQ reference room was open to the public with Harry Kimura explaining the music used during the judging process. Genesis Audio from Columbus OH provided the gear for the reference system.

Also in the North Hall, an IASCA SQ reference room was opened to the public with Harry Kimura explaining the music used during the judging process. Thanks to Genesis Audio of Columbus, OH for bringing the reference system.

Event results will be found at IASCA.com in the coming days, and the 2026 IASCA World Finals information will become available soon.

Modus Brings Award-Winning Cybertruck Build to New York for Electrify Expo

OXNARD, CA (10.14.25) – Next stop Nassau Coliseum, New York.

Modus is proud to announce it will exhibit and demo audio systems at the upcoming Electrify Expo, held at Nassau Coliseum on Long Island Oct. 17-19.

On the heels Modus of Electrify Expos in Seattle, San Francisco, and Chicago, Modus will once again feature its award-winning 2024 Tesla Cybertruck build at the New York event, which became a featured stop that drew crowds during the first three 2025 Electrify Expos it attended.

“New York is loud, and we are going to raise the decibel level with our Cybertruck demo, which has been incredibly popular with attendees during the current Electrify Expo tour,” said Jason Digos, Modus Senior Sales Trainer. “Attendees don’t realize such a high-end and powerful audio system can be integrated into today’s complex electric vehicles. Once they experience it, they are blown away. We can’t wait for New Yorkers to get a taste of what Modus can do for the electric vehicle industry.”

The misconception that premium audio is merely a luxury add-on overlooks the soundstage potential of EVs. These vehicles offer something combustion engines never could: silent cabins paired with abundant electrical power, creating an unprecedented opportunity for truly immersive, audiophile-grade sound systems.

The Modus Cybertruck installation achieves several industry firsts, showcasing Modus’ innovative PREACT™ current-averaging technology operating directly on Tesla’s 48V DC electrical system. This marks a significant advancement in mobile audio integration with electric vehicles, capable of delivering 6,000 watts (RMS) of audio power without requiring voltage inverters or additional batteries, which is a first for any EV audio system. This was made possible through Modus’ patented PREACT technology in the new Mezzo amplifier line, which operates with unprecedented efficiency at higher voltages.

“Consumers are often wary of adding or altering audio components in Teslas and other EVs because of their sophisticated electrical systems, but we are educating them that the technology is available today to do so safely and effectively,” Digos concluded.

The Modus Cybertruck debuted during the Modus brand launch event in March 2025. It will continue to be featured in additional industry events throughout 2025, showcasing the practical applications of Modus’ breakthrough technologies in the emerging electric vehicle market.

For more on the Modus cybertruck build, see the following video:

For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more
information on the web at www.modusglobal.com.

Toyota Introduces SiriusXM with 360L to Audio Multimedia in All-New 2026 RAV4

NEW YORK, NY (10.14.25) – Toyota and SiriusXM have announced that SiriusXM with 360L will make its Toyota debut in the all-new 2026 RAV4. SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment system, which provides drivers and their passengers with unparalleled choice, content discovery, and a personalized listening experience.

SiriusXM with 360L is available as part of the latest-generation Toyota Audio Multimedia system debuting in the RAV4 before rolling out to future models in the Toyota lineup. SiriusXM with 360L adds dozens of additional music channels curated to match every mood, an expansive library of on demand content, and a live sports category that makes it easier to find broadcasts of games and sporting events. Personalized “For You” recommendations and the ability to access related content allow listeners to discover more of the programming they love. Additionally, drivers can create and enjoy custom Artist Stations that can be originated from artists or bands and are continually personalized, and new features from SiriusXM are expected to be delivered by over-the-air updates in the future.

“Toyota’s ongoing collaboration with SiriusXM marks another significant step forward in redefining in-car entertainment,” said Brian Inouye, chief engineer at Toyota Motor North America. “Together, we are committed to enhancing every journey with a personalized, immersive experience to help our customers stay connected and engaged on the road.”

“We are excited for SiriusXM with 360L to make its Toyota debut in the all-new 2026 RAV4,” said Sean Gibbons, SiriusXM’s Chief Automotive & Broadcast Technology Officer. “Toyota and SiriusXM have enjoyed a long and successful relationship, and Toyota drivers will soon be able to experience even more live and on-demand content from SiriusXM with enhanced personalization and discovery.”

SiriusXM is home to hundreds of expertly curated, ad-free music channels across all genres, decades, and moods as well as the must-hear moments in sports, news, entertainment, comedy, and more. From one-of-a-kind channels by some of the world’s top musicians to first-listens and exclusive performances from emerging artists and bands, SiriusXM presents the perfect soundtrack for any moment. SiriusXM brings fans closer to their favorite sport by offering an extensive lineup of live pro and college events, plus programming that delivers reactions and analysis from experts and insiders. Subscribers also stay informed and entertained with the latest in news and politics, entertainment, comedy and beyond, with celebrity interviews, iconic hosts, trusted opinions, non-stop laughs, and so much more, available only on SiriusXM.

All Toyota vehicles sold or leased in the U.S. and Canada include a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM. Select Toyota dealerships can choose to add a three-year Extended Service Subscription to SiriusXM to the vehicle’s purchase or lease price. SiriusXM is available in the continental U.S. and Canada.

For more information on all the programming that SiriusXM offers, and all the ways subscribers can listen, visit SiriusXM.com.

Volunteer Audio Connected with Bikers at the Smoky Mountain Bike Rally

MARYVILLE, TN (10.13.25) – From September 27 through October 4, the Volunteer Audio team was set up in Maryville TN at the Smoky Mountain Bike Rally. Brian Cargile and Greg Wallace with 3 Phases Marketing were on site supporting Jay Bradshaw and the Volunteer Audio Team.

Jay Bradshaw relayed “What a week it was. We spent eight days on site doing live audio demos and installing full Hertz, Soundtream Reserve and Velocity Systems. By the end of the rally we had completed installs on 58 motorcycles… Yes, 58 bikes in one week!”

The huge Volunteer Audio work tent area was packed throughout the week.
Greg Wallace (C) answering questions for bikers.

Continuing “But more than just the installs what made this event truly special were the people. We met so many amazing riders, many long time Volunteer Audio customers, and many we have known only through the phone calls or online chats. Getting to finally meet those people, face-to-face, and hear their stories was amazing. We could see the excitement in their eyes as they listened to our systems in person and it was incredible.”

“My partner Brian Gargile and I worked the 3rd Annual Smoky Mountain Bike Rally to support Jay and our brands he supports. Those brands include Soundstream Motorcycle Audio, Hertz, SoundSkins, Velocity Speaker Designs, American Hard Bag, Breezy Ryder and Hog Badges. Live demos of several of these brands took place throughout the Rally. Tons of Harley riders were very impressed with the Soundstream V2 and full line of replacement head units. The Rally was such a great opportunity for thousands of Volunteer Audio’s YouTube followers to hear systems in person….and they were certainly not disappointed. It was also a super opportunity to support Jay and our vendors,” Greg stated.

Brian Cargile (L) talks with a biker on the show stopping 2024 Road Glide Volunteer Audio decked out at the event.
The Volunteer Audio area covered a large area at the Smoky Mountain Bike Rally.

Beyond the scheduled installs, the Volunteer Audio Team also helped hundreds of riders with polarity tests, radio updates and configuration checks to make sure every system was sounding and performing to the max.

Volunteer Audio had vendor support from Elettromedia/AdvancedMarketing (Hertz US):Steve Bolden, Rob Wempe and Chris McNulty. Logan at American Hard Bag jumped in on installs. Jeff and Jamie from Hog Bag were onsite to connect with bikers.

Concluding Bradshaw offered “While part of our crew was on the road, we could not have done it without the team that held down the fort back home. A huge thank you to Jared, Erwin and Trent for keeping the day-to-day business running smoothly, answering calls, fulfilling orders and taking care of customers so we could focus on serving riders at the rally. You made it possible for us to be there and we appreciate you more than you know. Thank you to everyone who came out, supported us and made this event one we will never forget. We can’t wait to see you all again in 2026.”

Visit volunteeraudio.com for more.

VOXX Snake Pit Training at Progressive Distribution Denver

DENVER, CO (10.13.25) – VOXX hosted a Snake Pit tactical training at the Progressive Distribution facility in Denver on Thursday, October 9th. Justin Gear, VOXX Product Specialist, and West Coast Regional Airon Ayala orchestrated the presentation. Progressive Distribution’s Jeremy Foss and Alvino Raigoza worked to make all run smoothly.

Dealers filled the meeting area in the Progressive Distribution Denver location with Justin Gear up front.

The Snake Pit presentation included covering cutting-edge firmware solutions, new hardware innovations, expanded T-Harness coverage plus expert installation tips from Justin Gear upfront.

Jeremy Foss related “Dealers started to show up early and the meeting area was packed with engaged attendees as Justin was upfront showcasing the latest VIPER and Avital products to get the remote start season kicked off in high gear.”

An area in the large warehouse was arranged with a large display screen upfront and tables positioned so all could enjoy the presentation after the catered Panda Express dinner.

Gear relayed “Members in the audience were certainly engaged and ready to work to get consumers into their stores to drive business for this year’s remote start season.”

Dealers were able to spend time connecting with each other during dinner.
Dealers started to fill the parking lot early.

For more see voxxelectronics.com.

Six Restyling Shops Named Finalists in 2025 SEMA Pro Cup Challenge

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.13.25) – The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has announced the six automotive restyling shops that will compete in its coveted PRO Cup Challenge at the 2025 SEMA Show, Nov. 4-7 in Las Vegas, Nev. The finalists are: Auto Additions Inc., Auto Trim Restyling, Automotive Concepts, DV8 Customs LLC, MARS of Billings, and Sun Line Sunroofs.

Taking place in the West Hall in the PRO Booth (#50197), the PRO Cup Challenge celebrates the creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation of the restyling industry while demonstrating the value of working with manufacturers and dealers to offer market-ready vehicle accessory packages.

The competition challenges finalists to:

  • Design an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience.
  • Deliver a dealer-ready build, with criteria of no more than 40 labor hours per package installed and a wholesale cost under $12,500.

“The PRO Cup Challenge provides the best opportunity for automotive restylers to showcase their skills and talents on the industry’s global stage,” said Kevin Gillis, PRO Chair. “From stylish designs to accessory upgrades that enhance convenience and comfort, this year’s competition will shine a light on builds designed to excite enthusiasts and deliver greater profit to dealers.”

Bringing its proven expertise back to the competition is Auto Trim Restyling, named the 2024 PRO Cup Challenge’s People’s Choice Award winner for its customized ’24 Toyota Land Cruiser. Meanwhile, newcomers DV8 Customs and Sun Line Sunroofs will make their PRO Cup Challenge debut, showcasing their vision and talent alongside other great shops.

“Attendees can expect a build that shows off our style, creativity, and attention to detail,” said Nick Svec, Managing Partner at DV8 Customs. “We do have a theme locked down and are currently in the creative process of really making it come to life.”

Building on the momentum of past competitions, the 2025 PRO Cup Challenge will feature parts and accessories from leading manufacturers in the restyling realm. While buyers can visit the West Hall and see new products from exhibitors’ booths directly, the PRO Cup Challenge brings their products together in real-world applications, demonstrating how their parts can be used to create stunning, marketable vehicle customizations.

A panel of expert judges will select the PRO Cup Challenge winner based on vehicle marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity, and profitability. Showgoers can also vote for their favorite build, recognizing it with the People’s Choice Award. Winners will be announced at the PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 4-5 p.m. in West Hall, Booth #50197.

For more information on the PRO Cup Challenge, visit www.semapcc.com.

Qualified SEMA Show attendees are encouraged to register now to secure discounted rates and maximize their ROI. Registration is $75 through Sept. 26. Hotel reservations at guaranteed low rates are available exclusively through SEMA’s official hotel provider, onPeak.