It’s been almost a week since we wrapped up our time at SEMA, and we’re still energized by the innovations we saw, the conversations we had, and the exciting future ahead for our industry. Let’s dive into the topics that were on everyone’s mind, the standout equipment releases, and how these insights will help shape our roadmap at Rubber-Inc. in 2026 to benefit our customers.
Hot Topics
Throughout a week packed with meetings, demos, and conversations, several themes came up repeatedly among vendors, customers, and industry partners. Here’s what dominated the discussions:
- Commercial TPMS: While not yet mandated in the U.S. yet, most industry leaders agree it is only a matter of time. Top brands are already rolling out commercial TPMS solutions, and fleets that begin preparing now will be ahead of the curve when regulations arrive. Learn more about Commercial TPMS here.
- ADAS Calibration Services: More than 50% of vehicles on the road today are equipped with ADAS, and that number is expected to exceed 75% by 2030. Proper calibration is essential for safety, and it is required after alignments, suspension work, tire-size changes, and more. For service shops, ADAS calibrations will soon become as routine as tire services. Explore how ADAS is shaping the future of auto and tire repair shops here.
- Technician Training: As technology evolves, so does the need for skilled, knowledgeable technicians. Shops must be able to clearly explain the value of services like ADAS calibration or commercial TPMS and perform them quickly and accurately.
- Digital Torque: Digital torque tools have been around for a while, but early versions often struggled to justify their cost. That is changing. Significant improvements are coming that will enhance accuracy, reliability, and long-term value. With digital torque enforcing correct procedures every time, it is poised to become the gold standard.
- Mobile Repair: Many shops we spoke with are expanding into mobile repair. If it is not on your radar yet or if you are considering it, now is a great time to explore the opportunity. Demand is growing, and the industry momentum is strong.
- Right to Repair: This movement continue to gain traction nationwide. In short, it supports the idea that consumers and businesses should have the legal right and practical ability to repair or modify the products they own and that manufacturers should make this possible. Learn more about this here and how you can support this effort.
New Tools & Equipment
SEMA is always the place to get a first look at the tools and equipment shaping the future of our industry. From innovations hitting the market now to products launching in the year ahead, here are a few standouts that caught our attention:
- Hunter Engineering’s Road Force Balancers are going away and being replaced with their new “walkaway” version. The Hunter WalkAway Workcell (an RFW combined with a Revolution) is 44% faster than traditional tire changing methods. 1 tech, start to finish, is about 20 minutes. View YouTube video.
- With added ride quality diagnostics, the New Coats ProBalance E900 assesses tire and wheel geometry to deliver a smoother ride and fewer customer returns for rework. It’s a high performing direct drive wheel balancer with new diagnostics. It’s up to 10x faster than non-direct drive balancers and has a 10-year warranty on the motor.
- The upcoming Gaither GT4220E Electrohydraulic Jack, arriving in early 2026, drew a lot of attention at SEMA for its silent, compressor-free, hoseless lifting design and compatibility with Makita, DeWalt, and Milwaukee 18V batteries. This makes it an ideal solution for mobile service providers, which we know based on earlier conversations will be a big deal in 2026.
Rubber-Inc Recap
SEMA is a busy and exciting week, and once the dust settles, we walked away with clear insights on how we can innovate, improve, and continue delivering the best possible service to our customers. Here’s what we learned this year and how it will shape our direction in 2026:
- Customer Meetings: We had productive conversations around inventory needs, lead times, and planning for 2026. Key themes included maintaining strong in-stock positions, expanding training opportunities, and staying aligned on new products entering the market.
- Vendor Collaborations: We met with several major partners to discuss pricing, promotional opportunities, and strategies to improve product availability. Together, we are working toward better forecast alignment, dedicated stock positions, and strong promotional offerings heading into Q1.
- Product Focus: With increased interest in HD TPMS, ADAS, tire changers, balancers, and alignment systems, we will continue prioritizing customer education, expanding training options (both virtual and in-person), and staying ahead of new product and equipment launches.
In Summary
SEMA 2025 gave us a clear picture of the innovations and priorities that will guide our industry in the year ahead. From the rising importance of Commercial TPMS and ADAS calibration to the growing interest in mobile repair, digital torque, and next-generation equipment, it is clear that shops and fleets are preparing for a more advanced and technology-driven future.
The conversations we had with customers and vendors helped confirm and shape our future plans as we stay focused on delivering the products, training, and solutions that keep our customers equipped and ready for what’s next.
As these trends continue to evolve, we look forward to supporting shops, fleets, and service providers with the resources they need to work efficiently, safely, and confidently in the year ahead.