Remembering Jimmy Russell Cook Jr

KERNERSVILLE, NC (12.08.25) – Jimmy Cook, the owner of Sounds Good Car Stereo in Kernersville, NC, passed away on Monday December 1, 2025.

Sounds Good Car Stereo is a longtime 12volt retailer in Kernersville NC that is very connected with the community. Boomer Robinson, Ambassador Sales related, “Jimmy was a very good friend and customer for many years. Hearing the news that he had passed away was very sad for me, his family and his friends across the industry.”

David Holland, Shiflet & Dickson stated, “Jimmy was a very good customer and attended many of our dealer shows. It was a very sad day when I learned that he had passed away.”

Jimmy was just 50 years old and spent the majority of his life working in the 12volt industry. Jimmy was proceeded in death by his father Jimmy Cook Sr. He is survived by his mother and his wife Penny Cook along with two beloved children Rylee and Alexander. Funeral services and dates have not been determined.

Boomer Robinson, Ambassador Sales, contributed information to the 12volt Central Studios.

KICKER Was Livin’ Loud At The AMA EnduroCross In Reno

RENO, NV (11.18.25) – THE AMA EnduroCross rolled in the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center for the new season on Friday, November 15th.

“It was great to get back to Reno this year. The Reno-Sparks Livestock venue is perfect for EnduroCross. The whole track area can be seen from the stands and again this year the stands were packed. Also, the lobby was very business as attendees arrived, and in between races, as KICKER dealer Nevada Auto Sound showed new products in the KICKER booth. This year the doors opened at 5:30 and riders sighed autographs by the Kicker booth. Lorin Morrell, Maddog Media related.

The stands were packed watching riders on the track.

During the AMA EnduroCross pre-racing Track Walk fans had a chance to walk the track mounds and visit the pit area. “The Track Walk was a great way to give fans a fun experience. During the Pit Party fans got to meet and talk with their favorite their favorite riders and check out their bikes” Morrell added.

As soon as racers hit the track they got their rhythm as they went around tight turns, eased through beds of logs and boulders and up mounds. Between races the PA announcers let the crowd know to check out the KICKER booth.

Thomas Wing from KICKER Reno dealer Nevada Auto Sound talked with enthusiasts and many had questions about what KICKER products would be best for their rides. The KICKER PowerBar was once again grabbed a lot of interest in the booth. Dana Doyle, Area KICKER rep, was also un he house. Fans from the area also had questions about KICKER products for their trucks, boats, cars, bikes and side-by-sides.

Thomas Wing-Nevada Auto Sound is flanked by Dana Doyle (R), the KICKER Rep in the area along with Lorin Morrell- Maddog Media on the left. The booth was set to showcase a wide variety of KICKER products.

Stay tuned for more as KICKER is Livin’Loud!

Visit kicker.com for more.

The Annual SSR Dealer Show Is Set For Sunday, November 16

HOUSTON, TX (11.14.25) – The highly anticipated SSR Annual Distributor Show is set for this Sunday. The location is 5725 Hartsdale Drive Houston TX 77036.

“We’re excited to invite dealers across our territory to our annual dealer show in Houston. Join us this Sunday for an exclusive look at some of the latest products, innovations and partnership opportunities with SSR. Attendees can take advantage of special show only deals and holiday season discounts designed to help boost dealers’ margins to end the year strong,” Amir Dhanani stated.

This image shows SSR Houston action from 2022.

At the SSR Dealer Show over 30 vendors will be on site along with trainings from WavTech, Kenwood, JVC, and AudioControl. There will be tons of products to be raffled off including a Blaupunkt E-bike valued at $1600. Attendees will enjoy food and drinks; snacks will be available in this family-friendly environment with plenty for the kids to do. The Annual SSR Distributor Show offers once-a-year deals that dealers don’t want to miss.

Brands on site will include Rockford Fosgate, Kenwood, Firstech, MASSIVE AUDIO, PowerBass, KICKER, SiriusXM, RDVFL, Pioneer, VOXX, ADS, PRV, Omega, Limitless Lithium, SoundSkins, Accele, Jensen, Vinland, Brightway, JVC, Monarch, Autotech, DS18, Metra, Harman, Stinger, SolarGuard, Cicada, SoundQubed and WavTech.

Metra will watch again have a large presence at the SSR Show like this image from last year.
Aisles will once again be packed like this image from 2023.

Make sure the SSR Annual Dealer Show in Houston is on your schedule for this Sunday, November 16th.

For more see ssrdistributors.com.

BOSS Audio Systems Announces New Elite Amplifier Line Now Shipping

OXNARD, CA (11.14.25) – BOSS Audio Systems is proud to announce that its Elite line of four new amplifiers are now shipping.

Elite amplifiers use Class-D technology with honest, true power outputs, helping avoid inflation-prone “max power” claims. While others add a premium price point to amps with standard market technologies, the Elite line has been designed for budget-conscious customers who still expect modern amp functionality. With four competitively priced models, Elite delivers power for any installation requirement and is the smart choice for enthusiasts who demand performance without the premium price tag. Elite strives to represent BOSS Audio’s passion for delivering refined audio experiences, evolving to meet industry demands for sound quality and thoughtful engineering. BOSS Elite continues to improve upon and deliver upgraded components, enhanced durability, extended warranties, and premium features, which are all showcased in the new Elite amplifier series. Built to perform, Elite amplifiers take it a step further for those who demand the very best in quality, reliability, modern features, and expert-backed service.

Elite builds on BOSS Audio’s commitment to making quality audio accessible, delivering enhanced performance for users ready to upgrade. The new Elite amplifier series features improved components, extended warranties, and modern features that deliver quality engineering and reliable performance where it counts.

The new line includes:
• BE830.5D: 830W, 5-channel Class D ($329.99 MSRP)
• BE600.4D: 600W, 4-channel Class D ($259.99 MSRP)
• BE600.1D: 600W, Mono Class D ($219.99 MSRP)
• BE400.1D: 400W, Mono Class D ($189.99 MSRP)

With Elite amps, customers can upgrade older vehicles with improved sound and quality that modern amplification delivers. While the industry often inflates power ratings, Elite is committed to transparent, accurate specifications, setting a new standard that builds trust with dealers and end users alike.

Key Elite amplifier features and specifications include:
• True power ratings
• High-level RCA & speaker level inputs
• LED illuminated end panels
• PWM MOSFET power supply
• Compact design to fit nearly any install
• Auto turn-on
• Variable crossover control
• Bridgeable options
• Included wired remote bass control
• 3-year manufacturer’s warranty

“Dealers and installers have been patiently waiting to get their hands on our new Elite amplifiers, and we are proud to offer all four models for their customers,” explained Colin Ross, BOSS Elite Associate Brand Manager. “Our high-tech offerings are meticulously priced to deliver exceptional value, making advanced features accessible to a broader audience.”

The Elite series amplifiers are now available through authorized BOSS Elite dealers.

For more information on BOSS Elite, please visit bosselite.com.

SEMA Show 2025: A Global Stage For Ideas, Products, And Passion

DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.14.25) – The 2025 SEMA Show wrapped up four dynamic days in Las Vegas, reinforcing its role as the automotive aftermarket’s most influential business event. With more than 153,000 attendees from 140 countries and regions, 2,300 exhibiting brands – including 500 first-time exhibitors – and more than 2,500 members of the global media, the Show delivered a concentrated environment for innovation, collaboration, and growth. Its impact extends well beyond SEMA Week, serving not only as a center for international business, but also as the epicenter of automotive culture and lifestyle, connecting the aftermarket to millions of enthusiasts worldwide and fueling growing interest and demand for industry products.

From left: SEMA President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mike Spagnola, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) CEO/President Steve Hill, SEMA Board Chair Melanie White, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, First Congressional District of Nevada Rep. Dina Titus, and National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) President Glen Cromwell.

Driving Global Business Forward

The SEMA Show serves as a dynamic crossroads for commerce and creativity, where the industry’s top innovators and brands gather to define the future of automotive performance and personalization. This year spotlighted ingenuity and resilience, offering a launchpad for product debuts, strategic partnerships, and forward-looking insights.

“The SEMA Show is a global pop-up marketplace where business and culture intersect,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “This year highlighted the industry’s ability to adapt and innovate, from emerging propulsion technologies to next-generation customization trends. By connecting manufacturers, buyers, and enthusiasts in one dynamic environment – and extending the connection well beyond the Show itself – it continues to shape the future of automotive performance, personalization, and industry direction.”

Innovation to Power the Future

Innovation ran through every hall and activation. A broad spectrum of propulsion technologies, from internal combustion and hybrids to hydrogen and battery-electric platforms, stood alongside advancements in materials, connectivity, and design. Between the Show floor and New Products Showcase, organized into 15 distinct product categories, thousands of new innovations debuted, underscoring the industry’s relentless drive to evolve and push boundaries. The future of ADAS was also on display from market leaders introducing the latest tools and equipment to repair and modify vehicles, and conversations about the future were facilitated in in the new ADAS Showcase feature.

The Pinnacle of Personalization

The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mother’s Polish celebrated the industry’s most innovative custom builds. This year’s category winners included Troy Trepanier’s handcrafted 1936 Ford Roadster (Overall Champion), Tim Franklin’s refined 1960 Porsche 356, Thomas Dickerson’s standout 1967 Chevrolet C10, and Ron Jones’ radically reimagined 1973 VW Thing, each setting new benchmarks for creativity and craftsmanship.

Headline Reveals and Cultural Impact

OEMs leveraged the Show to launch bold concepts blending heritage with innovation, reinforcing commitments to performance, personalization, and alternative propulsion.

  • Ford showcased its Ford Custom Garage packages, including performance accessories for the F-150 Raptor R and previews of future customization options.
  • Honda highlighted race-inspired builds under its HRC Performance Parts banner, reinforcing its motorsports heritage.
  • Mopar/Stellantis drew attention with the Ram 1500“The Dude,” a retro sport truck concept, and the Dodge SIXPACK Charger concept — a 550-hp twin-turbo build featuring carbon-fiber aerodynamic enhancements.
  • Nissan introduced off-road and performance concepts, including a rugged Frontier Project Adventure and a track-focused Z NISMO showcase, complemented by immersive experiences and branded merchandise.
  • Toyota unveiled the Camry GT-S, Tacoma H2-Overlander, and revived the Scion name with the Scion 01 hybrid side-by-side, emphasizing creativity and versatility across segments and powertrains.

These reveals reflect a broader vision: connecting enthusiasts through factory-backed customization, alternative fuels, and storytelling that resonates across generations.

Celebrity Influence and Industry Leadership

Automotive legends, entertainers, and business leaders elevated the Show’s cultural energy. Jay Leno and Tim Kuniskis, Ram Brand Chief Executive Officer at Stellantis, opened the week with a fireside chat on design and propulsion strategies at the annual Kickoff Breakfast. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem joined SEMA President Mike Spagnola for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the opening of the 2025 SEMA Show and reinforcing its global significance. Earlier this year, the two organizations announced a strategic partnership focused on advancing mobility policy and safety standards worldwide.

Motorsports icons including Mario Andretti, Richard Petty, Tony Stewart, and Lia Block connected with fans, while Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias unveiled his custom VW Bus and car care kit alongside Leno. Sung Kang brought star power and industry engagement, promoting his upcoming movie Drifter, hosting the SEMA Industry Honors event, re-envisioned in a new format at the BleauLive Theater in the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, and meeting fans at his booth featuring several of his personal builds.

Connecting Passion and Business

SEMA Fest and SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public bridged the gap between industry and enthusiasts, creating immersive experiences that celebrated car culture and inspired future builders. At SEMA Fest, Fans enjoyed live music from Queens of the Stone Age, The Black Crowes and Neon Trees, motorsports demonstrations, and car displays, while inside the Show, consumers connected with brands and custom builders. These activations reinforced the Show’s role as a cultural and business hub, where passion fuels progress.

Millions of enthusiasts around the globe were able to follow and engage with the Show through 31-hours of content livestreamed on SEMA Live, solidifying the Show as the center of automotive universe during the most powerful week of the year.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 SEMA Show was a launchpad for ideas that will shape the automotive landscape in the years ahead. By uniting global leaders, breakthrough technologies, and cultural energy under one roof, the event reaffirmed that innovation is the heartbeat of the aftermarket.

Additional details are available at www.semashow.com or www.sema.org.

Automotive Concepts Wins Pro Cup Challenge at 2025 SEMA Show

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.07.25) – Automotive Concepts from Minneapolis, Minn., won the 2025 SEMA PRO (Professional Restylers Organization) Cup Challenge for its accessorized 2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew that demonstrates the value and artistry of the automotive restyling industry.

Held at the 2025 SEMA Show, the PRO Cup Challenge invites automotive restylers to design an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. The restyling shop’s Ford F-150 SuperCrew was selected for its marketability, creativity, ease of replication, and profitability by a panel of judges.

SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola, center, with members of Automotive Concepts.

The Ford F-150 SuperCrew showcases golden anniversary graphics celebrating 50 years of the iconic model. Built around the theme “Black Label,” a term typically reserved for the pinnacle of its kind, the truck offers a fresh take on a concept never explored in the restyling space. The “5.0” badging pays homage to the powerful 5.0 Coyote engine under the hood, further emphasizing the vehicle’s performance pedigree.

“Automotive Concepts’ build showcases exactly what the PRO Cup Challenge is about: turning creativity into real business opportunity,” said Kevin Gillis, PRO Chair. “They’ve created a one-of-a-kind vehicle that dealerships can sell, customers will love, and the aftermarket can capitalize on. It’s exciting, it’s attainable, and we’re proud to honor them for this achievement.”

2025 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge winner: 2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew.

The Ford F-150 accessory package includes:
Suspension Lowering Kit (UMI Performance)
22″ Wheels / 22X10 – 18 Battle (Arena Wheel Co.)
22″ Tires Proxes STIII 305/40-22 (Toyo Tire Co.)
Fender Flares / Extenda Fender (Bushwacker)
Hood Scoop (Air Design)
Power Sunroof / 700 Series (Champion Automotive)
Window Tint / 50% CTX (Llumar)
Front Lip Spoiler (Air Design)
Tailgate Spoiler (Air Design)
Cab Spoiler (Air Design)
Brake Caliper Covers (Rough Country)
Custom Graphics / Badging (AC / Luxwood)
Katzkin Leather Interior (Katzkin)
Side Mirror Covers / Gloss Black (Trim Illusion)
Tonneau Cover / Soft Roll-Up (Real Truck)

The PRO Cup Challenge People’s Choice Award winner: 2025 Lexus GX 550 by Auto Additions.

Auto Additions from Westerville, Ohio, earned the PRO Cup Challenge People’s Choice Award for its customized 2025 Lexus GX 550, as voted on by SEMA Show attendees. Themed the “Takumi Edition,” the build features premium accessories from Eastman/Llumar, XPEL, TRI State, Oracle Lighting, Tentative Rago Fab, Avery, Voxx, Luxwood, and Katzkin. Inspired by the Japanese concept of Takumi, meaning “artisan,” the theme pays tribute to master craftsmanship, a distinction achieved only after more than 60,000 hours of honing one’s skills.

Additional companies that competed in the PRO Cup Challenge were Sun Line Sunroofs (2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500), Mars of Billings (2026 Kia Sportage), Auto Trim Restyling (2025 Toyota 4Runner), and DV8 Customs (2025 Ford Bronco).

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

BLAUPUNKT Launches BP-1200A: A 12-Inch Powered Subwoofer Engineered for Deep Bass and High Efficiency

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.07.25) – BLAUPUNKT has announced the debut of the BP-1200A, a 12-inch active subwoofer enclosure. This all-in-one (AIO) system is engineered to deliver powerful low-frequency output by perfectly matching a high-excursion 12-inch driver with a high-efficiency, built-in Class-D amplifier.

The BP-1200A is designed as a streamlined solution for installers and enthusiasts seeking significant bass impact without the complexity of component matching. The system is built around a robust 12-inch, 4-ohm Single Voice Coil (SVC) driver capable of handling 250W continuous (RMS) and 500W peak power.

The new PB-1200A spotlighted on display in the Blaupunkt booth at SEMA 2025.

The driver’s formidable performance stems from its advanced material science and engineering:

  • Cone & Surround: A rigid, injection-molded polypropylene (PP) cone ensures minimal flex and fast transient response, while a high-roll rubber surround facilitates the driver’s impressive 10mm of linear excursion (Xmax).
  • Motor Structure: A powerful ferrite magnet assembly provides the high magnetic flux necessary for precise cone control and efficiency.
  • Acoustic Parameters: The driver’s Thiele/Small (T/S) parameters are optimized for performance, featuring a low resonant frequency fs of 29Hz and a Qts of 0.49. This engineering results in a system with a wide frequency response of 25Hz to 500Hz, allowing it to reproduce the lowest sub-harmonics with authority.

The integrated Class-D amplifier is factory-tuned to the driver’s 250W RMS power handling, eliminating the guesswork of amplifier pairing. This high-efficiency topology ensures maximum power is converted to sound, not heat, resulting in a system that is both powerful and reliable, even in compact install locations.

“The BP-1200A addresses the critical market need for a high-performance, all-in-one bass solution,” said Chuck Kenney, National Sales Manager. “We’ve engineered the driver and amplifier as a single, cohesive system. Installers will appreciate the simplicity, and customers will be impressed by the deep, accurate bass that comes from a driver with a 29Hz fs and 10mm of Xmax.”

The system is housed in a durable, tuned enclosure and features a protective trim ring, making it a rugged and professional addition to any vehicle’s audio system.

BLAUPUNKT BP-1200A Key Specifications:

  • System Type: 12” Powered Subwoofer Enclosure
  • Amplifier Topology: Integrated Class-D
  • Woofer: 12” SVC
  • Continuous Power Handling (RMS): 250W
  • Peak Power Handling: 500W
  • Frequency Response: 25Hz – 500Hz
  • Woofer Material: Injection-Molded PP Cone, Rubber Surround
  • Magnet: Ferrite
  • Driver fs (Resonant Frequency): 29Hz
  • Driver Qts: 0.49
  • Driver Vas (Liters): 83.8L
  • Driver Xmax (Linear Excursion): 10mm
  • Sensitivity SPLo: 86.4dB @ 1W/1M

Pricing and Availability:

The BLAUPUNKT BP-1200A will be available through authorized 12V retailers and distributors beginning November 2025.

For more information, please visit www.bpcarusa.com.

Blaupunkt Online Shop – BP Americas Corp – Blaupunkt Website↗

The SEMA Show 2025 Filled The LVCC On Day 2 Wednesday November 5th

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.06.25) – The highly anticipated 2025 SEMA Show rolled again on Day 2, Wednesday, November 5th. Leading innovators, manufacturers and influencers in the automotive aftermarket are drawing attendees from around the globe for the unmatched 4-Day event in the Las Vegas Convention Center. Reports indicate that overall attendance may approach last year‘s 140,000 attendees.

All the space on the LVCC grounds are loaded and ready.
Attendees wait for the doors to open to the Central Hall.

The 12volt industry”s nearly 8 dozen exhibitors are concentrated in the LVCC North Hall. The massive West Hall, Central Hall, South Hall and lots out front were very busy also on Day 2 also.

From the 12volt Central Studios staff members continue to work to showcase the activities of those 12volt exhibitors to extend the ROI of their very significant investments. The images following below were supplied by 12volt exhibitors rolling in the LVCC North Hall. These images are just a few of the action shots supplied by industry members who utilized the 12voltSTP Tool. Stay tuned for much more from the 12 Volt Central Studios the rest of the week and beyond.

The 12voltSTP Tool makes it easier than ever to showcase a company’s positive activities and products. Snap and txt an image to 318 469 2526. PRESTO! Your company’s positive news and activities could be in the news. With the advent of social media, Facebook and Instagram platforms became key vehicles to deliver information and news. The fact remains people still need, and look forward to, receiving positive news. That is certainly true for the business realm that includes a 12volt industry.

We look forward to seeing your company’s news in the 12volt Central Studios.

For more see 12voltnews.com

ORACLE Lighting Unveils the World’s First Lensless LED Headlight at the SEMA Show

LAS VEGAS, NV (11.06.25) – ORACLE Lighting has announced the debut of the world’s first lensless LED headlight, setting a new benchmark in vehicle lighting. Introduced at the 2025 SEMA Show, this patent-pending design marks a radical departure from a century-old industry standard.

“For over 25 years, ORACLE Lighting has been at the forefront of lighting innovation,” said Justin Hartenstein, Founder and Director of Product Development. “Today, we’re proud to share a world-first: a headlight that completely eliminates the traditional lens creating something that is both extremely beneficial and disruptive to industry standards.”

Automotive headlights have relied on a clear outer lens since the early 1880s, when flames projected light though a transparent glass lens. Almost150 years later, despite advances in lighting sources, the presence of this transparent lens has remained unchanged…until now.

ORACLE’s new lensless headlight removes a failure-prone component of the headlight system. Instead of a transparent lens, the design features sealed modular LED emitters housed directly within the assembly, each with an IP68 ingress rating and equipped with active thermal management for superior reliability and performance. The result is a rugged, streamlined design that delivers superior reliability without sacrificing output or functionality.

Most importantly, this design directly addresses the top consumer complaints about headlights. Issues like fogging, cracking, hazing, yellowing, oxidation, and water intrusion are all byproducts of the outer lens. By removing the lens entirely, ORACLE has effectively eliminated these problems providing a better customer experience.

Another standout benefit of the system is its serviceability. Unlike most modern LED headlights, which are non-serviceable and must be replaced as a complete unit, often costing thousands of dollars, ORACLE’s lensless modular architecture allow individual replacement of any light function, including the daytime running light, high beam, or low beam. These can be replaced by the user with simple tools often without the need to even remove the headlight from the vehicle greatly reducing long-term ownership costs and environmental waste.

The new assembly also features reinforced, removable mounting brackets that can be easily replaced in the event of damage. This modular approach not only simplifies installation and repair but also allows the headlight to ship in a more compact package—reducing shipping costs and inventory footprint for distributors and retailers.

Aesthetically, the lensless format allows for a sleek, sculpted housing that becomes a focal design element on the vehicle. Another benefit is because there is no outer lens the headlight housing can be paint-matched to the vehicle’s body color, offering a new level of visual customization and personalization that was previously impossible.

While the product debuts on the 3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma, ORACLE has confirmed additional fitments in development for platforms including the Toyota 4Runner and Ford F-150, with even more applications to be announced soon. The system is expected to retail between $800 and $900 per set, with availability beginning in January 2026.

“This technology platform isn’t just about one truck or one product,” added Hartenstein. “We believe this is the future of vehicle lighting—and we’re proud to be leading that charge.”

The new lensless LED headlight will be on display at the ORACLE Lighting booth (#57147, West Hall) throughout the 2025 SEMA Show.

Visit oraclelights.com for more.

“Road to SEMA” Captures the Heart and Passion of Car Culture

DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.24.25) – Automotive content creators are on a mission to show the world that the car community is for everyone. Through Road to SEMA, 11 passionate car builders will document their multi-state and cross-country to showcase their vehicles at the 2025 SEMA Show, offering a new perspective on the passion of the automotive aftermarket. Social media audiences can follow along as they share their unique stories, relatable challenges, and inspiring triumphs along the way.

As content creators take on a growing role in the automotive world, Road to SEMA celebrates their influence and connection to the industry. Traveling hundreds of miles from small-town garages, desert highways, and even across the Atlantic Ocean, their content will serve as a bridge where viewers can connect with car culture – and the SEMA Show – in fresh, authentic ways.

“The SEMA Show showcases thousands of vehicles each year, but it’s the stories behind those vehicles that truly inspire,” said RJ de Vera, SEMA Vice President of Marketing. “By supporting initiatives like Road to SEMA, we’re celebrating the courage of creators who aren’t driven by trends but defining what’s next and showing the world what’s possible.”

Each creator’s journey will culminate with their arrival at the SEMA Show, taking place Nov. 4-7 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Each build will be featured in the Road to SEMA Showcase, located in Central Hall, Booth #21651. Here, SEMA Show attendees will not only be inspired but also reminded that anyone can make their mark in the automotive world.

“Road to SEMA offers an authentic view on the everyday people that have a passion for this industry,” said Road to SEMA participant Steven Nadaskai. “Our goal is to show that everyone has a place in the automotive community – no matter your background or level of experience.”

Road to SEMA Participants

Driver: Don Abenante, @donabenante
Vehicle: 1970 Chevelle
Origin Point: Rhode Island, USA
Miles Driven to SEMA Show: 2,700 miles
Journey: Abenante has owned the Chevelle since he was 15, originally planning it as a father-son build with his late dad. Though they never finished it together, the Chevelle became Abenante’s source of strength, learning, and purpose through every chapter of his life. Over 21 years, it has evolved alongside him, now reborn as a modern street machine that wears its patina proudly. Beneath its classic shell hides a 1,400-horsepower twin-turbo Coyote engine.

Drivers: Ashley Cooley, @_rustic_beauty; Christina Lardie, @christinalardie; Audrey LeMay, @audreysquadries; Riley Schlick, @rileysrebuilds; Annie Van Orman, @annies_vw
Vehicle: 1966 Ford Fairlane
Origin point: Denver, Colo.
Miles Driven to SEMA Show: 506 miles
Journey: The Creator Race Team, in partnership with the Jessi Combs Foundation, honored Jessi Combs by building and racing a 1966 Ford Fairlane in The Great Race. Now, they continue her mission with a road trip through the Rockies, Moab, Zion, and Nevada desert, arriving at the SEMA Show to carry her torch and inspire the next generation of builders.

Driver: Brad Eldershaw, @backfire.brad
Vehicle: 1999 Mercedes E240 Limousine
Origin Point: Stoke-on-Trent, England
Miles Driven to SEMA Show: 3,500 miles driven to the SEMA Show, 5,125 miles from the UK
Journey: The Road2SEMA Drift Limo is a 1,100bhp LS twin-turbo V8. Featuring six bucket seats, a full drift differential and suspension setup, and a completely strengthened, rebuilt chassis, it’s engineered for high-octane sideways performance with uncompromising power and precision.

Driver: Corey England, @corezlark
Vehicle: 2015 Lamborghini Huracan Twin Turbo V10
Origin Point: Exeter, England
Miles Driven to SEMA Show: 3,500 miles driven to SEMA, 5,000+ miles from the UK
Journey: The twin-turbo Lamborghini Huracán is a 1,100bhp, 5.2L V10 supercar built for extreme performance. Limited to 220 mph, this engineering marvel features world-class power, endurance, and precision on the Road2SEMA charity rally.

Driver: Louis Hadfield, @haddzy
Vehicle: 1994 Subaru GF8 22B WRX STi Wagon
Origin Point: Preston, UK
Miles Driven to SEMA Show: 11,000+ miles – includes travel from Preston, UK, to Malta, UK, for the engine swap and back to the UK for shipping to New Jersey.
Journey: Hadfield’s 1-of-200 first-series WRX STI GF8 Wagon has been masterfully restyled into a 22B-inspired creation, making it a true 1-of-1 worldwide. Powered by a naturally aspirated Ferrari 360 V8 and equipped with an EBC Brakes big brake kit, it perfectly balances power, precision, and exclusivity.

Driver: Jack Thorton, @jackbuildsit
Vehicle: Mk4 Supra
Origin Point: Winter Garden, Fla.
Miles Driven to SEMA Show: 3,500 miles
Journey: Once a wrecked hopeless Supra with dented panels, cracked
bumpers, and faded paint that sat forgotten in Thorton’s shop. Piece by piece, he rebuilt it. Now, under the bright lights of the SEMA Show, its deep green paint gleams like
armor. The nightmare became a masterpiece with fresh metal, a restored heart, and a
new soul.

Driver: Steven Nadaski, @typicalstevenn
Vehicle: 2013 Porsche Cayenne and 2011 Volkswagen GTI
Origin point: Mission Viejo, Calif.
Miles Driven: 280 miles
Journey to the Show: The Volkswagon has been at SEMA since 2019 competing as Nadaski’s SEMA Battle of the Builders Young Guns build. This year, he is bringing it back again but trailered by his newest build: an off-road/overland-built Porsche Cayenne.

Visit www.semashow.com and www.sema.org or call 909-396-0289 for more.