SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola and BMW's New X5

Aftermarket modding means changing or upgrading a vehicle with parts and accessories made by companies other than the original manufacturer. It’s common in enthusiast circles because it can personalize the car’s look, sound, and sometimes performance.

SEMA is an annual trade show in the U.S. focused on the aftermarket industry—custom cars, parts, and accessories. It’s where many enthusiasts go to see new products and meet the people behind car modifications.

Rear sets are motorcycle foot controls (the pegs and shift/brake linkages) mounted farther back and/or higher than stock. Changing rear-set position can improve rider ergonomics and leverage, which is why the host mentions taller riders wanting higher rear sets.

The Ducati Monster is a well-known Ducati motorcycle line built around a naked-bike layout (no full fairings) and a strong aftermarket culture. In this segment, the host is talking about modifying Ducati Monster rear sets to fit riders with longer legs.

EVs are electric vehicles powered primarily by electric motors and rechargeable batteries, rather than an internal-combustion engine. Here, the host links EV growth and “EV dreams” in China to a cooling effect on halo cars.

“Halo cars” are the flashy, high-status models automakers use to build brand image and attract attention—often more about desirability than volume sales. The host argues that EV hype and EV adoption trends in China have reduced the appeal of these halo models, which used to be common across major brands.

In this context, “social media” refers to online platforms where people can view cars, reviews, and marketing content without visiting a physical showroom. The host uses it to explain why showroom visits—and the role of halo cars in driving them—may be weaker than before.

“Ludicrous mode” is Tesla’s software setting that increases throttle response and power output for quicker acceleration. It’s essentially a performance mode that changes how the electric powertrain delivers torque.

“Speed became a commodity” is the idea that high acceleration and top speed are no longer exclusive to expensive supercars. As more mainstream cars (especially EVs) deliver strong performance, speed becomes a widely available feature rather than a special differentiator.

“EV” stands for electric vehicle—cars powered primarily by electric motors and batteries rather than a gasoline engine. In this context, it’s used to compare how performance expectations spread beyond traditional supercars.

A “drag race” is a straight-line acceleration contest where cars compete over a short distance to see which is faster. It’s commonly used as a benchmark for how quickly a car can reach speed from a standstill.

In car marketing, “authenticity” refers to how real or credible a brand’s story feels—often tied to heritage, engineering identity, and long-standing design cues. The discussion contrasts that with buyers prioritizing newer tech.

“AI” here refers to artificial intelligence used in vehicles—typically for driver assistance, infotainment, and personalization features. The speaker frames AI as a key buying factor for some markets.

BYD is a major Chinese automaker known for electric vehicles and also for large-scale battery and powertrain technology. In the segment, it’s mentioned as already selling buses in the US, highlighting how Chinese EV brands can enter markets through commercial fleets first.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a full-size luxury SUV known for seating capacity and ride comfort compared with lower, stiffer setups. In this segment, it’s used as the practical alternative when the speaker’s other car’s suspension/ride height wasn’t suitable for a hospital trip.

The BMW M5 is a high-performance version of BMW’s 5 Series, built for fast acceleration and confident handling with an M-tuned drivetrain and suspension. The host mentions using an M5 to drive the kids around, and that they’ll discuss it after another person gets a chance to drive their own BMW.

The BMW X5 is BMW’s midsize luxury SUV, and the “new X5” implies a fresh generation or major update with updated design and tech. The hosts pivot into discussing it, including first-impression reactions to its styling.

Powertrain is the complete set of components that create and deliver propulsion—typically the engine (or motors), transmission, and related systems. In this segment, it’s used to describe the different propulsion technologies BMW is offering for the X5.

An inline six is an engine layout where six cylinders are arranged in a single straight line. It’s often praised for smoothness because the firing order and balance can make it feel refined, and BMW has used inline-sixes in several recent models.

A V8 is an engine with eight cylinders arranged in a “V” shape (two banks of four cylinders). Compared with an inline-six, a V8 typically emphasizes stronger low-end torque and a different character, though exact behavior depends on the specific engine and tuning.

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) combines a combustion engine with a battery and an electric motor that can be charged from an external power source. Compared with a mild hybrid, a PHEV can typically drive for short distances on electricity alone, depending on battery size and conditions.

A hydrogen fuel cell uses hydrogen to generate electricity onboard, typically with only water as a byproduct. The electric motor still drives the wheels, but the “fuel” is hydrogen rather than battery charging.

A full electric vehicle (EV) is powered entirely by one or more electric motors drawing energy from a battery. Unlike hybrids, it doesn’t use a combustion engine for propulsion, so charging replaces refueling for everyday driving.

A diesel version refers to a variant powered by a diesel engine, which uses compression ignition rather than spark ignition. Diesel can offer strong efficiency and torque characteristics, but availability depends heavily on region and emissions regulations.

In a car cockpit, “gauges” are the instrument cluster readouts—typically speed and engine speed (RPM)—that drivers use at a glance. This segment contrasts traditional gauges directly in front of the steering wheel with a more screen-based layout.

Engine speed refers to how fast the engine’s crankshaft is spinning, usually shown as RPM (revolutions per minute). It’s a key driver input for smoothness and performance because it helps you judge when to shift and how hard the engine is working.

“BMWi drive system” appears to refer to BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, which controls media, navigation, vehicle settings, and (in some implementations) camera and display functions. The host says they “absolutely loved” it, implying the new X5’s interface changes how those functions are accessed.

Visibility is how clearly the driver can see the road and nearby objects through the windshield and mirrors. The segment links reduced forward sightlines (from SUV height) plus added dashboard tech to concerns about what the driver can actually see.

This phrase describes a trend where vehicles keep getting larger and taller, which can worsen real-world visibility for other drivers. The host connects it to the need for more camera-based visibility aids as sightlines change.

A camera button is a dedicated control that quickly activates a live camera feed (often forward-facing or around the vehicle). This matters for visibility because taller vehicles can make it harder to see the curb and nearby obstacles.

A digital screen in modern cars is the driver information display—often replacing physical buttons and gauge clusters. Here, it’s used as a control surface to bring up a forward camera view when needed.

The curb is the raised edge at the side of the road, and it’s a common reference point when parking. The host mentions curb visibility because taller vehicles can hide the curb from the driver’s normal sightline, increasing the value of front camera views.

EPA refers to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which sets and enforces air-quality and emissions regulations. Here, the EPA approval matters because it authorizes SEMA’s facilities to perform emissions-related testing and compliance steps.

Emission compliance work is the process of getting a vehicle or aftermarket product approved to meet government air-pollution rules. In the segment, SEMA garages are described as being approved to do this kind of work, including running tests and submitting documentation.

The emissions testing process is the sequence of tests used to verify that a vehicle or aftermarket product meets required pollution limits. The host describes it as “daunting” for manufacturers, and says SEMA helps with applications, test work, and submitting the paperwork.

The California Resources Board (as referenced in the transcript) is a California agency involved in regulating and overseeing environmental and emissions-related requirements. The host says SEMA’s work has been shaped by California’s regulated framework over the years.

“Reasonable basis” refers to an EPA acceptance framework where testing and evidence can be considered sufficient without requiring every possible test scenario. In this segment, it’s described as the basis for how emissions testing can be performed and still be accepted by the EPA.

The speaker refers to “SEAMA garages” as emissions test facilities used to perform certified testing for manufacturers. The key idea is that these centers can be recognized by the EPA so their testing results are accepted for broader sales.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is California’s agency that sets and enforces air-quality rules, including emissions certification for vehicles and aftermarket products. The segment emphasizes that CARB approval can take months, which delays when manufacturers can sell in California.

“Forty nine state legal” describes a certification outcome where an aftermarket product is approved for sale in nearly all U.S. states. In this segment, it’s contrasted with California, where CARB approval can still be pending.

A “cat-back exhaust” is an aftermarket exhaust system that replaces components from the catalytic converter rearward (pipes, muffler, and tips). The segment uses it to illustrate how exhaust modifications often require emissions certification to be legal to sell.

The BMW M Coupe (E36) is a performance-focused coupe built on the E36 3 Series platform, tuned by BMW’s M division. It’s significant because it’s a relatively compact, driver-oriented M car that enthusiasts still seek for its balance and feel. It may be mentioned in the context of aftermarket support—like exhaust options—because owners often modify these cars.

“Right to modify” extends beyond repairs to include legal permission for owners and shops to change vehicle hardware and software—like suspension, wheels/tires, or performance parts. The key point here is doing those modifications safely while keeping driver-assistance systems and emissions requirements working correctly.

“Self breaking” appears to refer to automatic emergency braking (AEB), where the car detects a potential crash and applies the brakes to reduce impact or avoid it. The discussion ties it to modification risk because changing suspension, tires, or wheel size can affect sensor calibration and what the system “sees.”

“Lane change” here refers to driver-assistance features that help with lane changes, typically using cameras and radar to monitor adjacent lanes and assist with safe maneuvers. The episode frames it as part of the sensor-dependent tech that can be affected by suspension, tire, and wheel modifications.

The “cameras and all those sensors” refer to the vehicle’s perception hardware used for driver-assistance systems—detecting lane markings, obstacles, and vehicle position. The segment emphasizes that modifying ride height, suspension, or tire/wheel sizes can change sensor viewpoints and calibration, which can change system performance.

“Lift a truck” means raising the vehicle’s ride height, usually by changing suspension components. In this context, the host is connecting lift kits to changes in how cameras and sensors interpret the road, and to the need for recalibration to keep safety systems functioning correctly.

“Tire size and wheel size” affects rolling diameter, speedometer/odometer accuracy, and the effective geometry seen by vehicle sensors. The segment highlights that changing tire/wheel dimensions can alter what the cameras and sensors detect, which may require software or sensor adjustments.

“Fuel timing” is when the engine injects fuel relative to piston position and engine cycle. It’s a key calibration parameter that can be adjusted to support modifications like forced induction while maintaining emissions compliance and drivability.

A “supercharger” is a forced-induction device driven by the engine (typically via a belt) that increases air pressure entering the engine. More boost generally requires careful tuning—like fuel timing—to keep the engine safe and emissions-compliant after modifications.

“Emission's compliance” refers to meeting legal limits for exhaust pollutants set by regulators. The segment argues that properly managed modifications can be tuned so the vehicle still passes emissions requirements (and avoids warranty issues).

“Warranties” here is used in the automotive sense of manufacturer coverage for repairs if something fails. The segment’s point is that certain modifications can be done in a way that doesn’t void warranty coverage—assuming they’re handled with approved tuning/calibration and compliance.

“Exhausts” refers to the exhaust system components that route gases out of the engine. Modifying exhaust can change backpressure and emissions-related behavior, so the segment frames it as something that must be managed with calibration to remain compliant.

“Air intakes” are components that route and filter incoming air to the engine, often changed for improved airflow. In the segment, intake and exhaust modifications are mentioned as examples of changes that can affect engine calibration and performance while still being done safely and compliantly.

The “2029 Corvette” is used as a hypothetical example of a modern performance car that will be equipped with advanced driver-assistance features. The host’s point is that if automatic safety systems like self-braking are required by law, modifying the car for track use (like suspension changes) could affect how those systems behave.

Porsche is a German sports-car brand known for rear-engine layouts, high-performance engines, and a strong motorsport heritage. When someone says they’ve had “old Porsches,” they’re usually referring to classic 911-era or other vintage Porsche models that enthusiasts actively collect and modify.

Formula One (F1) is the top tier of open-wheel motorsport, run as a global championship with races in many countries. The segment discusses whether new races could be added in Asia and whether additional manufacturers—like BYD—could join the sport.

The FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) is the governing body for major international motorsport and mobility-related initiatives. In this segment, the speaker notes their role as the US representative and describes the FIA’s involvement in Formula One oversight.

Las Vegas is being discussed as a potential new host city for a Formula One race. The speaker says they’ve heard there might be a second race there, but that it’s not confirmed—reflecting how F1 calendars can change when other events are canceled or rescheduled.

A V8 engine is a gasoline (or sometimes diesel) engine with eight cylinders arranged in a “V” shape. The layout helps packaging and can produce strong power and a distinctive sound, which is why enthusiasts often talk about “going back to a V8.”

An electric car manufacturer is a company whose main product lineup is battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). In this discussion, it’s used to contrast EV-focused brands with automakers that may reintroduce combustion engines like V8s.

EV mandates are government rules that require a certain share of new vehicle sales to be electric. Here, the hosts connect them to legislation affecting automakers’ product plans and timelines.

Synthetic fuels are man-made liquid fuels produced from non-petroleum feedstocks, often designed to be compatible with existing engines and infrastructure. The host lists them as one of several alternative fuel paths alongside EVs, hydrogen, and hybrids.

The White House is the official residence and workplace of the U.S. president. In the segment, it’s mentioned because the host says he attended the signing of the legislation related to EV mandates.

This appears to be a Porsche Macan GTS, a performance-oriented trim of the Macan SUV. The “GTS” badge typically indicates a sportier setup than the base model, usually with firmer suspension tuning and more performance-focused options.

A downpipe is the exhaust pipe section that routes exhaust gases from the turbocharger (or exhaust manifold area) down to the rest of the exhaust system. Aftermarket downpipes can change exhaust flow and sound, but they can also affect emissions equipment depending on whether they’re emissions-compliant.

“Chip it” is slang for reprogramming the engine control unit (ECU) with a performance tune. The goal is usually to change throttle response and fueling/boost behavior, but it can also affect drivability and emissions compliance depending on the tune.

“Emissions compliant” means the vehicle modifications still meet legal emissions requirements. In practice, that often means keeping catalytic converters and other emissions-control hardware intact or using parts that are certified to pass testing.

Bring a Trailer is an enthusiast-focused online auction site where people buy and sell cars, often with detailed listings and community bidding. It’s especially popular for niche and older models because sellers can document condition and modifications.

The hosts discuss whether Pebble Beach should add or expand a dedicated supercar class, reflecting how collector tastes evolve. They also connect that idea to how pricing and popularity shift across eras and brands.

The Lamborghini Diablo is a high-performance supercar from Lamborghini, known for its dramatic styling and V12 power. It’s often discussed because it represents a defining era of extreme, analog driving character and became a recognizable icon of late-20th-century supercar culture. In a market conversation, it may come up as a benchmark for rarity, desirability, and collector interest.

A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is the unique code assigned to a specific vehicle. In collector-car talk, “matching” or “original VIN” often matters because it signals the car’s identity and history.

Restomod describes a modified classic car that keeps the original look or identity but updates mechanicals, electronics, or drivability. It’s often discussed because it can change how a car is valued compared with a fully original, unmodified example.

In enthusiast culture, forums are online communities where owners and builders share advice, troubleshooting, and modification ideas. The host links forum use to learning about parts and setups for whatever vehicle or motorcycle they currently have.

The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck known for being widely used for work and everyday driving, with many available configurations. It’s often discussed because it’s a mainstream platform that can be tailored for different needs, including off-road-focused versions. In a rally or event context, it comes up as the kind of truck people use for rugged, high-mileage challenges.