DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.22.25) – Filmmaker and car enthusiast Sung Kang, known for his role as Han in The Fast and the Furious film franchise, is bringing a sneak peek of his upcoming film DRIFTER to the 2025 SEMA Show. Kang wrote, directed, and starred in the story of a solitary janitor who finds redemption and belonging through the competitive drifting scene. Set to release in 2026, the film reflects his belief that cars can bring people together through creativity and purpose.

At the SEMA Show, visitors will get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at DRIFTER and see the film’s hero car “Lola,” a Toyota Corolla AE86, up close. Fans can explore the craftsmanship behind the cars, experience the excitement of drifting culture brought to life on the Show floor, and hear about the film before its official release. Kang will also hold daily Q&A sessions and meet fans.

“SEMA represents everything that is important to me about car culture,” Kang said. “It is a place where passionate enthusiasts come together with the aftermarket industry to build a strong car community. I am thankful to everyone for the years of support that helped me make my dreams come true with DRIFTER.”

Kang’s connection to car culture runs deep. He has previously debuted several celebrated builds at the SEMA Show, including the award-winning Fugu Z Datsun 240Z, the Project Underdog Ford Maverick built with high school students, and the Doc Z. This year, he returns to SEMA with the Fugu Z for its 10-year anniversary and the debut of his latest creation, the Veilside 240Z nicknamed 78.

“Experiences like Sung Kang’s DRIFTER at the SEMA Show illustrate why this event is the premier destination for automotive enthusiasts and industry leaders,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “It brings together creativity, car culture, and innovation in a way that highlights the passion driving this community.”

“DRIFTER offers attendees a rare chance to step into the world of cinematic car culture,” said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “From seeing multiple builds of Lola the AE86 to engaging the creative minds behind the project, it’s an immersive experience that brings the film’s energy to life on the Show floor.”

Kang will also serve as host of the debut of SEMA Industry Honors, taking place Thursday, November 6, at the BleauLive Theater inside the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. The event highlights achievements and contributions within the automotive community and underscores Kang’s role as a respected voice in the industry.

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/hotel.

UNIONDALE, NY (10.20.25) – MODUS exhibited and demoed audio systems at the Electrify Expo, held at Nassau Coliseum on Long Island, October 17-19.

Following successful showings at Electrify Expos in Seattle, San Francisco, and Chicago, MODUS once again featured its award-winning 2024 Tesla Cybertruck build at the New York event. As in previous shows, the Cybertruck became a major attraction, drawing consistent crowds throughout the weekend.

“Exhibiting at the Electrify Expo at the Nassau Coliseum was really terrific every day. We were able to communicate the MODUS EV message directly to attendees. Team members Matt Delgado and Rachel West joined in connecting with attendees, and on Sunday our area rep Frankie Mark from The 12volt Marketing Group joined us,” stated Jason Digos. Frankie Mark covers Northern New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Maine.

“New York is loud, and we raised the decibel level with our Cybertruck demos, which have been incredibly popular during the 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 attendees at future Electrify Expos 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. This is a first for any EV audio system and is made possible through Modus’ patented PREACT technology in the new Mezzo amplifier line, which operates with exceptional 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 brand’s launch event in March 2025 and will continue to be featured at additional industry events throughout the year, showcasing the practical applications of MODUS’ breakthrough technologies in the rapidly growing electric vehicle market.

For more, see modusglobal.com.

CHICAGO, IL (10.20.25) – Mid City Engineering, a leading provider of innovative accessories for the luxury vehicle market since 1999, today announced the release of ModeLock, a new series of drive mode memory modules designed for select Porsche models.

The ModeLock module bypasses Porsche’s factory default of starting vehicles in “Normal” drive mode, allowing drivers to start every trip with their preferred performance settings.

“Porsche vehicles automatically start up in ‘Normal’ drive mode by default,” explained Dan Ruby, owner of Mid City Engineering. “The driver can change those parameters, but the vehicle won’t remember them for the next drive. ModeLock saves the driver’s preferred settings, so the car is always ready to go exactly the way you want it.”

ModeLock modules are designed for simple installation in the driver’s side kick panel and require only four connections: power, ground, CAN high, and CAN low.

• ModeLock PLM1 (MSRP: $279) – Porsche 911 (MY 2023–2025)
• ModeLock PLM2 (MSRP: $279) – Porsche Cayenne (MY 2022–2025)
• ModeLock PLM3 (MSRP: $279) – Porsche Macan (MY 2025)

“Why not drive your Porsche the way you want to and hear that engine the way it’s meant to sound when you start it?” Ruby added. “With ModeLock, your Porsche is always ready with your chosen settings.”

Mid City Engineering will be confirming additional Porsche compatibility, with more applications expected in the coming weeks.

For more information and updates on additional compatibility, please visit www.midcityengineering.com, email sales@midcityengineering.com, or call (312) 421-1114.

NORCAL, CA (10.17.25) – Since joining PowerBass as the Western Regional Sales Director 35-year industry veteran John Driscoll has been on the road nonstop. This week he has been on the road in Northern California with Micah Bowen with Ovation making calls on dealers in the area. Two recent stops were JDM Sounds and Tint in Bakersfield CA and ZAMZ Audio in Visalia, CA.

“Being on the road with Micah Bowen from Ovation calling on dealers is the best way to connect in-person and really get a feel for the real business at retail. Showcasing the latest from PowerBass and planting seeds for seeing PowerBass at SEMA meant a lot for me” Driscoll stated.

Erik Harbour, PowerBass VP related “John and Ovation Team members have been hitting the road stopping in and seeing new an existing PowerBass dealers and distributors in the region. They are showcasing the new Tesla OE Fit Speakers, PBX PRO, PBM Series Amplifiers and the full lineup of PowerBass products and solutions. While making calls with dealers and distributors they are encouraging all to stop by the PowerBass booth at the upcoming SEMA Show November 4-7. PowerBass is in Booth 10427 in the North Hall.”

For more see powerbassusa.com

OXNARD, CA (10.16.25) – BOSS Elite, a leader in aftermarket car audio systems, proudly announces it has named Palmyra, Penn.-based DAS Companies, Inc. its new partner for the Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia territory, effective immediately.

“The northeast is an important and consistently growing territory, and so we needed a partner with a rich and successful history with proven track record of performance,” said Colin Ross, Elite Associate Brand Manager. “DAS checks all the boxes as they have an intimate understanding of consumer insights and shopping environments, offering engaging product support and services to their customers to assist with their 12 Volt solutions.”

Added Tim Small, DAS CE Category Manager, “We are thrilled to start our business relationship with the BOSS Audio and Elite brands by offering their innovative automotive products highlighting the new featured-packed floating screens, plus motorcycle and powersports solutions, as well. We also look forward to expanding our line with additional mix of BOSS Audio & Elite advanced technology.”

David Z. Abel founded DAS in the 1970s, and the company was incorporated in 1981. DAS specializes in serving the on-the-go lifestyle with a large number of mobile electronics, truck and auto supplies, and travel gear. Its 12 Volt team has 228 combined years in the industry with experience from installations and sales to management and ownership.

“DAS Companies, Inc. has a strong family heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and stewardship commitment, and we pride ourselves in complete customer service from the start to finish of the retailer’s projects,” said Ken Litten, DAS CE/HD Sales & Marketing Manager. “We look forward to distributing BOSS Audio & Elite as they have entered a new chapter of their go-to market by rebranding and we get to be a part of this process.”

For more information on DAS Companies, please visit www.dasinc.com, call 1-800-233-7009 (1-800-336-2730 Para el español), or email CESales@dasinc.com.

For more information on BOSS Elite, please visit bosselite.com or call 805-751-4853. 

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.

“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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

For more see voxxelectronics.com.

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.