The IASCA SPL Championship Season Kicked Off With A Successful Event in Salem

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SALEM, OR (10.06.26) – The International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) kicked off its 2026 SPL Championship season with a successful championship event in Salem OR, October 26th and 27th. The event brought together more than 40 SPL competition vehicles, competitors, vendors, and car audio enthusiasts from across the region.

The Salem event delivered an exciting weekend of competition and showcased the continued growth of the IASCA SPL Competition scene. More than 40 vehicles battled for championship honors, while multiple vendor booths gave attendees the opportunity to see the latest products and technology from the car audio industry.

The IASCA Finals venue in Salem OR was filled with competition vehicles and competitors.
The vehicles set for the judging to begin.

The event also featured a special giveaway that generated excitement throughout the weekend. Car Toys Oregon, KICKER and Crossover Marketing teamed up to give away a complete KICKER system that provided one lucky winner, Stephanie Robey, with a major upgrade for her vehicle. “That Special GiveAway featured industry members working together. A Special Thank You” IASCA said.

The Car Toys Oregon giveaway was a partnership with KICKER and Crossover Marketing.
Winner Stephanie Robey, is flanked by family and Car Toys Oregon Team members.

Rob Sutton related for Car Toys Oregon, KICKER and Crossover Marketing “So happy for Stephanie. The prize consisted of (1) KICKER LX1650.1, (2) KICKER 49L7X102 and (1) KICKER 46PKD 1/0 gauge amp kit. Once installed Stephanie will be Livin’Loud with KICKER! Sam Sutton had a great time working with the Team Car Toys Oregon representing both KICKER and Pioneer.”

“Salem was an incredible way to get the 2026 SPL Championship underway,” said IASCA. “The turnout from competitors, manufacturers, vendors, sponsors, and spectators demonstrated the passion that continues to drive the car audio competition community. We are extremely grateful to everyone who helped make Salem such a success.”

When the IASCA Finals wrapped in Salem, all gathered for group image.

The 2026 SPL Championship continued in Indianapolis. The action from Salem moved east as IASCA prepared for the 2026 IASCA SPL Championship Event in Indianapolis IN October 3 & 4.

IASCA Thanks Its Sponsors. IASCA would like to extend a special thank-you to the companies and organizations whose support helped make the Salem championship event possible and continues to support the 2026 IASCA SPL Championship season.

For more see iasca.com.

CRUX Ships RFM-MB3 Multi-View Camera Interface for 2024-Up Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and V-Class with MBUX 2G (NTG7)

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CHATSWORTH CA (10.06.26) CRUX Interfacing Solutions announced that the RFM-MB3 Multi-View Integration Interface is now in stock and ready to ship.

The RFM-MB3 is a built-in multi-view integration interface for Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX 2G (NTG7) infotainment system. It fits 2024-and-up Sprinter vans (W907/W910) and V-Class (W447) models equipped with the 10.25-inch display.

Sergei Cuba spotlights the new RFM-MB3 interface.

The interface retains the factory infotainment system and factory rear-view camera. It then adds aftermarket front, left, right and rear camera inputs, all viewed on the vehicle’s own screen. Customers can use the factory steering wheel control (SWC) buttons to force and toggle between available camera views.

For van upfitters, fleet operators and mobile-office or camper builds, that means full-perimeter visibility without replacing or compromising the OEM head unit.

“This is a product our dealers have been asking for,” said Hamza Khalid, Operations Manager at CRUX Interfacing Solutions. “Many of them do a high volume of 12-volt work on Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans for Amazon delivery fleets. Our RFM-MB1 and RFM-MB2 interfaces have been strong sellers for 2019–2023 Sprinters with the first-generation MBUX system. Ever since the new MBUX 2G NTG7 vans arrived, we’ve had a steady stream of installers asking us for a solution — and the RFM-MB3 is it.”

Screenshot

Key Features

  • Adds front, right, left and rear camera inputs to the factory MBUX 2G (NTG7) screen.
  • Turn signals automatically trigger the matching side camera.
  • Factory steering wheel control buttons toggle between camera sources.
  • CAN data can be accessed, configured and programmed through the CRUX website or mobile app.
  • Two independent +12V switching outputs for triggering accessories.
  • USB update port for easy firmware updates in the field.
  • Plug-and-play harness included — no cutting or splicing of factory wiring.

Availability

The RFM-MB3 is in stock at CRUX’s Chatsworth, California facility and shipping now to dealers and distributors. Installers can find product details and installation resources at www.cruxinterfacing.com or by calling 1-818-609-9299.

Oracle Lighting Expands Sales Team to Support Growth into Fleet, Motorcycle, Powersports and International Markets

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METAIRIE, LA (10.06.26) – Oracle Lighting  announced the appointment of Johnny Johnson as Strategic Account Manager. Johnson will grow the company’s core aftermarket LED business while leading its expansion into fleet, motorcycle and powersports, and into new international markets.

The hire is part of a broader expansion of Oracle Lighting’s sales organization, driven by sustained growth in both its wholesale distribution network and its emerging business segments. As the company builds out new verticals, it is adding leaders who bring deep aftermarket relationships and a proven record of building dealer channels from the ground up.

Johnny Johnson

“We’re growing, and that growth means we need people who can strengthen the business we’ve built and open doors in markets that are new to us,” said Jaclyn Bradham, Chief Revenue Officer of Oracle Lighting. “When we defined this role, we were looking for someone who knows the aftermarket from the inside, understands how dealers and distributors actually buy, and has built channels both here and overseas. Johnny is exactly who we were hoping to find. He’ll add value to our core LED customers from day one, and his experience in powersports and international distribution makes him the right person to take our newest lines and markets from opportunity to core business.”

Johnson brings more than 15 years of sales and business development leadership across the automotive and powersports aftermarket. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Sales and Business Development at Derive Systems, a global provider of automotive performance tuning technology. There he rebuilt the sales organization, grew the domestic dealer business, revived the international dealer channel, and launched a dealer win-back program that brought dormant accounts back into the business.

Previously, as National Sales Director at Dynojet Research, Johnson led the expansion of the company’s powersports dealer network, adding hundreds of new dealer accounts through a structured dealer sales program. He helped implement new MAP and ARP policies and account reclassification to strengthen brand position and profitability. Earlier in his career, he served as Senior Account Manager at Derive Systems, where he managed hundreds of accounts and led new dealer acquisition. He also held sales and management roles at Cycle World and Bill Heard Chevrolet, which gave him firsthand experience on the dealership side of the business.

In his new role, Johnson will work with Oracle Lighting’s core aftermarket LED distributors and resellers while building the company’s presence with fleet operators and upfitters, motorcycle and powersports dealers, and the partners who serve them. He will also play a central role in expanding Oracle Lighting’s international distribution, drawing on his experience rebuilding international dealer channels.

“Oracle Lighting has built a strong reputation for innovation and quality that dealers and enthusiasts already trust,” said Johnson. “My focus is to build on that with the customers who got Oracle here, and to take the brand into fleet, motorcycle, powersports and international markets where that reputation can go a long way.”

Visit oraclelights.com for more.

EnduroCross Kicks Off the 2026 Championship Series In Las Vegas

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LAS VEGAS, NV (10.05.26) – The EnduroCross brought the action to the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, October 3rd.

The EnduroCross is one of the wildest sports on two wheels, combining the challenging obstacles of an Enduro with the tight confines with a family friendly event in a stadium setting. Riders race over rock beds, huge logs, tractor, tires and other extreme rock obstacles making it the most unprecedented motorsport event on 2 wheels.

The EnduroCross track being prepared.

KICKER was on site as an event sponsored with Lorin Morrell, KICKER Events, setting up the KICKER booth and product display in the lobby showcasing KICKER products for auto and motorsports. The action in the Orleans Arena was intense on Saturday night with the excited crowd.

Morrell shared, “There was so much energy in the arena. The KICKER booth was set in the lobby and foot traffic was strong as attendees came in. Many bikers at the booth relayed are certainly making plans to upgrade their rides. With KICKER upgrades they’ll be Livin’Loud”.

When the doors opened at 5:30 attendees headed to the KICKER booth.
Riders ready to head to all the obstructions on the track
Riders trying to navigate a tight turn.

“The preparation to set the track for EnduroCross events is nothing short of crazy. Bulldozers and cranes on site place rocks and huge logs on the track along with tractor tires for the riders to navigate through the tight turns and launch over ramps. The on track action was absolutely amazing and riders were careful not to crash into fallen riders” Morrell added.

“Attendees saw KICKER products in the booth along with KICKER signage on the track ensuring that many attendees left as new KICKER fans” Morrell concluded.

This rider struggling to get over the wall of the logs.
Saturday afternoon qualifiers and amateurs were set to take practice runs on the track.

The EnduroCross 2026 Series continues with events in Nampa ID, Everett WA, Salt Lake City UT, Idaho Falls ID.

For more see kicker.com.

Keeping The Marketing Ball in Play for Decades

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SHREVEPORT, LA (10.05.26) In today’s AI driven and social media world it is more important than ever for companies and members of the 12volt industry to connect with other industry members and consumers.

For parts of 6 decades the 12volt industry has been home on this end. Working retail in the 60s and 70s, SONY distributor in the 80s, dB Speaker Works in the 90s and the 12volt News for over 30 years.

The 12 Volt Advertiser magazine from August 1995 featuring articles on aftermarket sales and security in the mobile electronics industry, along with an image of the Trade shows and an advertisement for Speakerworks.
Vintage promotional image of a Sony Road Show van from the 1980s, featuring a scenic highway background and a person pointing. Text overlay includes 'ON THE ROAD' and information about the tour through Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Arkansas.

As an award winning SONY distributor for the TOLA region in the 1980s, the Schuster Distributing SONY Road Show was on the road. Decades ago 12volt Central Studios staff recognized Marketing is a 24/7 process.

A Sony Road Show trailer parked in a lot, decorated with blue and white triangular flags, alongside a red car and a shop with a sun mural.
The Sony Road Show setting up at Sun Coast Sound Station in Monroe LA.

Today, with the the 12volt Marketing Ball, the 12volt Central Studios makes it easier that ever for members of the industry to showcase their products and activities across the industry.

A person stands behind a table displaying various JENSEN audio products at a distribution center, holding a black ball with '12 Volt' written on it.
Example of Marketing Ball in play.

In-person trade and distributor shows are perfect to connect and show new products in a one-on-one setting. However, trade and distributor shows attendance over the last several years has diminished significantly. The 12volt Central Studios can work with you by putting a company in their own customized booth using the 12voltSTP Tool and deliver their message to the 12volt industry with the 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball. Industry members, including retailers must realize marketing is a 24/7 journey.

Graphic showing a smartphone with text promoting the '12volt STP TOOL' service, instructing to snap and text an image with a few words to the number 318 469 2526.

A smartphone is all it takes to put the 12volt Central Studios Marketing Ball in play. The number is 318-469-2526. Simply standup holding the product to be spotlighted. Hand your phone to someone to snap the image. Txt that image, with a few words and Presto! The 12volt Central Studios can put your company’s marketing ball in play.

A cartoon-style illustration featuring three characters: a speaker character on the left, a cool character wearing a black leather jacket in the center holding wires, and a stereo character on the right, all grouped together under the text 'ROCKTOBER' in bold, orange letters.
Let’s get RockTober off to a great start by putting your company’s Marketing Ball in Play.

Team Nutz At The Rosedale Technical College Fall Career Fair

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PITTSBURGH, PA (10.05.26) – Ed Nuttall was spotlighting the Team Nutz message at the Rosedale Technical College Fall Career Fair on Thursday October 1. The event was held in Kennedy Township area of Pittsburgh and Team Nutz has been on site at previous events.

“At the Career Fair there were hundreds of skilled students looking for their next fit in the work world. The students have been studying a wide variety of automotive, carpentry, collision repair, HVAC, truck driving and welding categories. At Team Nutz we work across several business platforms and we offer a wide offering of possibilities for these students. During the event we handed out hundreds of stickers, lanyards and even some yellow jeep ducks connecting with students at the event. It sure sure terrific day as we connected with many students plus other companies that participate in the automotive aftermarket industry” Nuttall related.

Team Nutz had a large table filled stickers, lanyards and company handouts to connect with students.
The Rosedale Technical College Fall Career Fair took place in a very large venue with many companies connecting with students.

Ed Nuttall and the Team Nutz crew is a standout example of a proactive 12volt retailer connecting with community members. All of the students are also potential customers in the Team Nutz retail location.

For more see teamnutz.com.

Modus Features Full Marine Product Line and Interactive Technology Demos at IBEX 2026

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OXNARD, CA (10.02.26) – DSP Solutions Inc. is proud to announce it will showcase Modus’ full marine product line and provide interactive technology demonstrations during the 2026 International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX), held Oct. 6-8 at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Fla. During the show, Modus will feature its largest display to date, more than 10x the size of its 2025 predecessor, in Showroom 3.

“Modus will make a major statement during IBEX, bringing our entire marine audio product lineup together in one location for the first time,” said Director of Sales, Rob Osheaski. “We will also be creating an immersive experience for boatbuilders, industry professionals, and marine audio enthusiasts with our massive new display so they can experience what Modus can do for the modern boating industry.”

During IBEX, Modus Marine will provide visitors an exclusive environment so that they may explore the company’s expanding product portfolio, experience its innovative technologies firsthand, and meet directly with the Modus team. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the company’s latest marine amplifiers, speakers, subwoofers, source units, infotainment systems, and advanced audio control technologies.

The expanded showroom will also highlight Modus’ capabilities in OEM audio system development, including custom engineering, DSP tuning, integrated infotainment, and complete audio system solutions designed specifically for boat manufacturers. “Our expanded exhibit reflects Modus Marine’s continued investment in marine audio technology and our commitment to supporting OEM boatbuilders with complete, integrated audio and infotainment solutions,” added Co-CEO, Navid Farhand.

Experience the Power of PREACT™ Technology “A centerpiece of the Modus exhibit will be an interactive boat display featuring two Mezzo MZA-8M eight-channel DSP amplifiers equipped with Modus’ patented PREACT™ current averaging technology,” explained Vice President of Marketing, Joz Wang. “Visitors will have the opportunity to experience a complete marine audio system while watching live demonstrations of amplifier current draw under real-world listening conditions.”

Unlike traditional amplifiers that require large amounts of instantaneous current from a boat’s electrical system, PREACT technology uses internal energy storage and intelligent current management to deliver powerful audio performance while limiting current demand on the vessel’s electrical system.

The Mezzo MZA-8M delivers up to 2,000 watts of total audio output while limiting maximum current draw to just 25 amps at 12 volts.

“The interactive demonstration will allow attendees to experience the system at various listening levels while observing live current consumption, providing a firsthand look at how Modus technology can reduce electrical system demands without sacrificing the listening experience,” Wang continued.

Daily Prize Giveaways for Demo Participants Attendees who visit Showroom 3 and participate in a live product demonstration will have the opportunity to enter the daily prize giveaways each day of the show. Demos will be occurring at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm daily with in-person giveaways including Modus products, swag, and more to conclude each demonstration. A grand-prize giveaway will also include an iPad Air with eligible entry for all demo attendees.

“Whether experiencing the Mezzo amplifier current draw demonstration, exploring the complete marine audio lineup, or learning about Modus’ latest technologies, visitors will have an opportunity to discover what sets the Modus approach to marine audio apart,” Osheaski concluded.

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

See Alpine at SEMA 2026

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AUBURN HILLS, MI (10.02.26) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) is attending the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association Show 2026 (SEMA 2026). The event will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Tuesday, November 3rd – Friday, November 6th, 2026. Alpine will be exhibiting in Booth 10373 in the North Hall.

Alpine will be showcasing the all new Alpine Marine Lineup, a 2026 Ford F-150 TSport Alpine Edition, and a 2019 CanAm Maverick within the booth.

“Alpine’s return to SEMA has been long anticipated, and we’re thrilled to once again be part of this incredible gathering of industry leaders, innovators, retailers, installers, and enthusiasts,” said Dan Sparks, Director of National Sales & Marketing for the Alpine Brand Division at Alps Alpine North America, Inc. “SEMA is more than a showcase of products. It is an opportunity to connect with our dealers, reps and customers, strengthen relationships, exchange ideas, and celebrate the passion that drives the automotive aftermarket industry forward. While visitors will see some exciting Alpine solutions throughout the show, we are equally excited about being back among the industry community and sharing what’s ahead for the brand. And, as always, we may have a few surprises in store.”

Marine Product Line
The 2026 Marine Audio Product Line combines Alpine’s legendary sound quality with the durability and reliability demanded by life on the water. Featuring an all-new family of marine speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers, and head units, the lineup was designed to stand apart with a distinctive aesthetic unlike anything else in the marine audio category.

Every speaker in this new collection features integrated RGB lighting, delivering a premium visual experience to match its exceptional acoustic performance. Engineered for powerful, detailed sound and built to withstand harsh marine conditions, the new speakers embody Alpine’s commitment to high-fidelity audio and long-term reliability. Complementing the lineup are compact, high-output amplifiers that provide impressive power from a small footprint while maintaining consistent performance in demanding environments.

Bailment F-150
Slated to be featured at SEMA, the 2026 Ford F-150 TSport Alpine Edition brings together bold exterior styling and Alpine premium audio in a distinctive performance-inspired package. The vehicle recently served as the official pace truck for the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series event at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park on July 24, 2026, showcasing the TSport Alpine Edition on one of motorsports’ most visible stages.

This F-150 incorporates a new TSport Alpine Edition graphics package, an Alpine grille, a Alpine two-piece hood scoop, the PSS-23F150 8-speaker, and 600-watt plug-and-play premium sound system. The new Alpine grille gives the F-150 a more aggressive, stylized appearance while retaining the factory 360-degree camera system. Constructed from UV-protected ABS with a factory-matched matte-black texture, the grille is engineered as a direct replacement using existing factory mounting points with no cutting or vehicle modification required.

The Alpine grille is scheduled to become available in October 2026 as part of a vehicle upfit package offered through Ford dealerships, with fulfillment through Timberline Upfitters.”

2019 CanAm Maverick
2019 Can-Am Maverick X3 MAX X RS Turbo will round out the featured vehicles within Booth # 10373. This vehicle is outfitted to showcase Alpine’s performance-driven powersports audio and lighting solutions. The vehicle features the Alpine PSS-CMAV sound system, GP-RGB-SBAR soundbar, and Alpine Style Off-Road Lighting, creating an immersive combination of premium sound, visibility, and rugged styling. Built for demanding off-road environments, the Maverick demonstrates how Alpine products can elevate the driving experience both on the trail and at the show.

Show Hours & Information
Tuesday, November 3rd: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday, November 4th: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday, November 5th: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday, November 6th: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Las Vegas Convention Center
3150 Paradise Rd Las Vegas, NV 89109

All SEMA 2026 attendees are welcome to visit the Alpine booth to learn more about the products being exhibited, receive in-person demos, and speak with staff members from the Alpine Sales, Marketing, and Product Engineering teams. Attendees are encouraged to visit https://semashow.com/ for more information and to purchase tickets for the event.

HKI USA Promotes Jacob Brown to Chief Operating Officer

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DANIA BEACH, FL (10.02.26) — HKI USA announced the promotion of Jacob Brown to Chief Operating Officer, effective October 1, 2026. In his new role, Brown will oversee day-to-day operations, streamline core processes, and strengthen the company’s procedures and inventory controls.

Brown has been with HKI USA for seven years and most recently served as Director of Operations. During his tenure, he helped guide the company through significant change, including refinements to its product portfolio, upgrades to back-office systems, and the evolution of its team.

“Jacob has earned my trust through his leadership and commitment to HKI USA. His promotion to COO reflects that confidence, and I look forward to working alongside him as we continue to grow,” said Diogo Iannaccone, Chief Executive Officer of HKI USA.

“I’m honored to take on this role and build on the strong foundation our team has created,” said Brown. “We have exceptional people, outstanding products, and a shared passion for music. I’m excited to turn those strengths into smarter operations, stronger partnerships, and continued growth for HKI USA.”

Visit https://hki-usa.com for more.

Harley-Davidson Joins Powersports Section at 2026 SEMA Show

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.01..26) – The 2026 SEMA Show is accelerating excitement with the announcement that Harley-Davidson, one of the most iconic and influential brands in motorcycling, will join the Show’s expanded Powersports, SxS & Lifestyle section. The addition of Harley-Davidson highlights the growing significance of powersports within the aftermarket industry and brings one of the world’s most recognized motorcycle manufacturers to the SEMA Show.

Harley-Davidson joins a growing roster of exhibitors that includes Kawasaki Motors, Kymco, Mahindra, Massimo Motor, and Showa Performance, signaling strong industry support for the expanded section. Created to connect manufacturers, buyers, builders, retailers, distributors, and other industry professionals across the powersports market, the section will showcase the latest innovations in performance parts, accessories, customization, and related technologies. Placing the Powersports section adjacent to the Trucks & Off-Road section reflects the strong crossover between the two markets, making it easier for businesses serving both segments to discover new products, connect with suppliers, and identify emerging trends.

“The addition of Harley-Davidson brings an iconic name and a passionate enthusiast base to the SEMA Show’s Powersports section,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “Harley-Davidson has helped shape motorcycle culture for generations, and its participation reinforces the strong connection between powersports and the automotive aftermarket. We’re seeing tremendous interest from leading brands, and this section will give attendees a front-row seat to the innovations shaping the future of powersports.”

Attendees will be able to explore the latest in powersports vehicles, SxS platforms, suspension systems, performance upgrades, accessories, and lifestyle products, along with emerging technologies designed to enhance durability, capability, and rider experience. The section continues to grow rapidly, offering a comprehensive look at innovations driving both recreational and utility-focused segments.

The connection between powersports and automotive enthusiasts is reinforced by findings from the annual SEMA Market Report, which found that more than half (54%) of automotive accessorizers own at least one recreational vehicle or powersports product. The report also shows that automotive accessorizers are more likely than non-accessorizers to own recreational equipment that commonly drives towing, hauling, and utility accessory purchases, including ATVs, UTVs, motorcycles, RVs, trailers, and other outdoor recreation vehicles.

According to the report, powersports owners are heavily represented among automotive accessorizers, with significant ownership rates for products such as ATVs (15%), UTVs/side-by-sides (8%), off-road motorcycles (8%), and on-road/dual-purpose motorcycles (7%). This substantial overlap highlights the natural crossover between the automotive aftermarket and powersports markets, creating opportunities for brands that serve both enthusiast communities.

Overall, exhibitor commitments for the 2026 SEMA Show have already surpassed 1 million net square feet, with more than 2,000 brands preparing to connect with a global audience Nov. 3–6 in Las Vegas. The event remains one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the country, reflecting sustained growth across the aftermarket.

In addition to this new section, the 2026 SEMA Show will feature strong participation across performance, trucks, collision repair, mobile electronics, tools and equipment, and emerging technologies. Major OEMs, including Toyota, Ford, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Stellantis, will also return, reinforcing the connection between factory engineering and aftermarket innovation.

Attendees can also experience signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders, which now includes the Bike Builder Shootout, and FutureTech Studio, all offering insight into the trends and technologies influencing the next generation of vehicles, on-road and off.

The 2026 SEMA Show will take place Nov. 3–6 in Las Vegas as part of the broader “SEMA Week” experience, which includes public access on Friday and the high-energy SEMA Fest.

To learn more or register, visit semashow.com.