By Ashley Reyes

SEMA has announced the finalists of its 2024 Manufacturer of the Year and Channel Partner of the Year Awards. Presented at the SEMA Show, these awards recognize leading companies for their significant contributions to the automotive special-equipment industry over a yearlong period.  

Finalists for SEMA Manufacturer of the Year, which honors a manufacturing company for its outstanding industry contributions, innovations, and business practices, are:    

• CSF Cooling – Racing & High Performance Division
• GEN-Y Hitch 
• QA1 

Finalists for SEMA Channel Partner of the Year, which recognizes a sales channel partner for its role in facilitating the flow of goods from manufacturers to end users, providing outstanding service to the sales, distribution, retail and/or eCommerce channel(s) of the industry, are:  

• Keystone Automotive  
• Meyer Distributing  
• Tri-State Enterprises

The Manufacturer of the Year and Channel Partner of the Year award recipients will be announced alongside the New Products Awards winners during the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, November 5 at 7:00 a.m. PST at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino Paradise Event Center. Emceed by Jerod DeAnda and a not-to-be-missed keynote speaker, the Kickoff Breakfast will unite the global automotive community for networking, a plated breakfast, and special presentations before the Show officially opens.  

The SEMA Person of the Year, Content Creator of the Year and the Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award recipients will be announced during the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet on Thursday, November 7, at 6:00 p.m. PST at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino Paradise Event Center. The SEMA Industry Awards Banquet is the annual celebration of the specialty-equipment industry. SEMA Show attendees are invited to attend the event to experience top-flight entertainment, industry trends, and networking. 

Additionally, the winner of the SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award will be announced on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. PST in SEMA Central.

To RSVP for the Kickoff Breakfast or purchase tickets to the Industry Awards Banquet, click here.

By SEMA News Editors

The automotive aftermarket will converge in Las Vegas for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8. As exhibitors gear up to connect with dedicated buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals, SEMA Show organizers have compiled a list of deadlines and reminders to keep the industry on track and on budget (more details below).

To make the most of your SEMA Show experience this year, be sure to bring your teams and customers to special events, like the Industry Night @ SEMA with tire-smoking drift demos and live performances of chart-topping music from The Goo Goo Dolls, as well as O.A.R. and Reignwolf on Tuesday, November 5, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. PST. Tickets are still available starting at just $49, and they might sell out, so don't wait! Purchase Industry Night @ SEMA tickets here.

In addition, the SEMA News Products Showcase, the No. 1 destination for buyers and media members at the SEMA Show, is still accepting submissions. Showcase your new products, company information and booth number to thousands of professionals who are commanding billions in buying power. The first product entry is always free, with additional product entries at $175 per submission. Submit New Product Showcase entries at semashow.com/newproducts, and read the rules and regulations here. Questions? Contact the SEMA Show office at 909-396-0289 or newproducts@sema.org.

And, for exhibitors who registered past the mailing deadline may retrieve their badges on-site in the Express Registration area in West Hall or in the Main Registration in Lower South Hall East. Note: Each person must pick up their own badge. They may not send anyone else in their place. NO EXCEPTIONS. The registrant must be prepared to present a valid government-issued photo ID when picking up their badge at any of the barcode registration locations. The name on the photo ID must match the name on the badge.

SEMA Show Deadlines List

This all-encompassing checklist provides a breakdown of deadlines for booth orders, rentals, booth vehicle applications, celebrity appearance notifications and more key dates, some of which are also detailed in this article below. 

View the SEMA Show deadlines checklist.

Upcoming Key Exhibitor Deadlines

Be sure to check out the complete list of deadlines for more dates. 

Friday, September 27: Exhibitor Registration Due for domestic exhibitors (to receive badges in the mail).

• Tuesday, October 22: Orders for tents/canopies due to Full Circle Events.
• Thursday, October 24: Important: Last-day freight will be accepted at the Advance Freeman warehouse without penalty.
• Thursday, October 24: Hanging sign/banner shipments due to Advance Freeman warehouse.
• Thursday, October 24: New Product Showcase advance shipments due to Advance Freeman Warehouse.
• Friday, October 25: Photography orders due to Expo Ease.
• Friday, October 25: Plant and floral orders due to Expo Ease.
• Saturday, October 26: Freight: First day shipments will be accepted at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
• Friday, October 4: New Products Showcase entry advance rate deadline. (The first product is always free; save $80 on each additional entry by submitting before this deadline).
• Friday, November 1: Vehicle detailing orders due to ShowFleet (for advanced rate).
• Tuesday, November 5: SEMA Show opens in Las Vegas.
• Thursday, November 7, 12:00 p.m. PST: Deadline to pick up SEMA Show Banquet tickets.
• Thursday, November 7: SEMA Show online registration closes at 2:00 p.m. PST.
• Friday, November 8: SEMA Show Members Lounge conference room reservations close at 3:00 p.m. PST.

Don't forget that the Exhibitor Services Manual, accessed at semashow.com/esm, is a one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show. It contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including the deadline and budget checklists.

And for those that haven't already, exhibitors can lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

As exhibitors gear up to connect with dedicated buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals at the 2024 SEMA Show, it's important to stay up-to-date on upcoming deadlines. Click here for a list of critical deadlines and checklists to keep the industry on track and on budget. In addition, exhibitors can post press releases at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness, as well as possible inclusion in association publications and promotion to media attendees. 

By SEMA News Editors

Boundry

Trailbreaker Truck Bed Rack

The Boundry Trailbreaker is an all-new truck bed rack that eliminates common issues when transporting mountain bikes and dirt bikes. Tailgate pads, hitch racks and tie-down straps compromise backup cameras, parking sensors, the ability to tow or use the tailgate. The Trailbreaker eliminates these issues by bringing two-wheelers securely into the bed while keeping the tailgate upright--even in short bed pickups.

boundry.com.

Pelican Products

Pelican Case Rooftop Mounts

Designed for select Air, Protector and Vault Long Cases, this accessory offers a low-profile mounting solution for securely transporting long cases on top of a vehicle. The Pelican Case Rooftop Mounts are crafted from solid steel with an anti-corrosion coating and are engineered to clamp over the carrying handles of Pelican cases, eliminating the need to drill into the case. This design allows users to securely mount their cases onto various aftermarket roof racks equipped with extruded T-slot rails.

pelican.com.

GEN-Y Hitch

Running Boards

Measuring 84-in. in length, these American-made running boards are rated for up to 400 lbs. of weight capacity and manufactured with heavy-duty steel. Running boards will be available for select Ford, GM and RAM trucks.

genyhitch.com.

FiTech Fuel Injection

EFI 2 Barrel 400 HP Classic Black EFI System

FiTech Fuel Injection has introduced its all-new Black Go EFI 2 Barrel system features a high-flow aluminum throttle body in a sleek black finish, an updated ECU with remote mount relay box, four FiTech flow-matched injectors capable of up to 400 hp and more.

fitechefi.com.

Deatschwerks

Performance Pump Modules and More

Deatschwerks is introducing multiple new products during the 2024 SEMA Show, including performance pump modules, performance filter modules for multiple applications and more. Products set to be released include the DW400 pump module for '11-24 Ford Mustang, DW300 pump module for '15-'21 Subaru WRX, balanced and flow-matched 2400cc injectors, and more.

deatschwerks.com.

Heck Industries

Cordless 2-in-1 Beveler/Weld Shaver

The new Heck Industries Model 2700 2-in-1 beveler and weld shaver is battery-powered and features interchangeable shoes to be used as a beveler or weld removal shaving tool. Able to create bevels and remove weld beads, the Model 2700 includes both the V-Block bevel attachment and weld shaver shoe plate.

heckind.net.

As exhibitors gear up to connect with dedicated buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals at the 2024 SEMA Show, it's important to stay up to date on upcoming deadlines. Click here for a list of critical deadlines and checklists to keep the industry on track and on budget. In addition, exhibitors can post press releases at semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness, as well as possible inclusion in association publications and promotion to media attendees.   

By SEMA News Editors

Nearly a year since Honda confirmed the return of the Prelude, SEMA News sources spotted a prototype of the sports car testing in Germany.

These early images of the new Honda Prelude reveal that Honda has made significant progress beyond the concept car it showcased last spring. The test units are now at its German headquarters, and they're showing more details than typically seen in the early stages of development.

While the silhouette differs from the original concept model, the Prelude retains the sleek, curved roofline and a sharp tail drop. A large rear window accentuates the elegant, coupe-like profile. Comparing this prototype with the spring's Prelude concept, it's clear that Honda has stayed true to the design.

The headlights are the same, as is the grille with its thin slats, giving the front end a sharper, more aerodynamic look. The shapes of the front bumper and cooling vents are also unchanged and the full-width rear lights maintain the concept's design.

The bulging wheel arches, especially at the rear and the open vents in the front fenders are carried over from the concept, reinforcing the sporty nature of this new model, which notably won't be electric. A peek beneath the rear bumper shows part of the exhaust system.

The new Honda Prelude is set to launch in mid-2026, with sales starting in the latter half of the year. It will feature a hybrid powertrain, combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor integrated into the automatic transmission, delivering more than 200 hp.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization's PRO Cup Challenge is returning to the 2024 SEMA Show with six new vehicle builds that will showcase the talents of automotive restylers.     

Now in its fifth year, the competition challenges automotive restylers to develop an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that is marketable, profitable and easy to replicate. The goal of the program is to attract new car owners to accessorize their vehicles and show fellow restylers, dealers and accessory manufacturers the value of offering marketable packages. 

The six PRO Cup Challenge finalists will have their vehicle displayed in the PRO booth (#50203 in the West Hall) during the week of the SEMA Show. Judges will select a PRO Cup Challenge winner based on the vehicle's marketability, ease of production, creativity and profitability. Additionally, SEMA Showgoers are invited to visit the builds on-site and scan a QR code to vote for the winner of the People's Choice award.

This year's PRO Cup Challenge competitors are:  

• Auto Trim Design of Utah, '24 Hyundai Santa Fe                
• Auto Trim Restyling, '24 Toyota Land Cruiser  
• Automotive Concepts, '24 Chevrolet Silverado   
• Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh LLC, '24 Toyota RAV4 XLE Hybrid  
• Keystone Styling, '24 Ford F-150 
• MARS of Billings, '24 Ford Bronco   

SEMA Showgoers have until 2:00 p.m. PST on Wednesday, November 6, to submit their People's Choice votes in the PRO booth. The PRO Cup Challenge and People's Choice award winners will be announced during the PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 6, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. PST in the PRO booth. 

"The SEMA Show is all about discovering new products, vehicle trends, and ideas that can take businesses and careers to new levels," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "We look forward to seeing restylers use the latest parts and accessories to showcase their skills and creativity."

To learn more about the PRO Cup Challenge, visit sema.org/pro-cup-challenge. To learn more about PRO, visit sema.org/pro. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization's PRO Cup Challenge is returning to the 2024 SEMA Show with six new vehicle builds that will showcase the talents of automotive restylers.     

Now in its fifth year, the competition challenges automotive restylers to develop an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that is marketable, profitable and easy to replicate. The goal of the program is to attract new car owners to accessorize their vehicles and show fellow restylers, dealers and accessory manufacturers the value of offering marketable packages. 

The six PRO Cup Challenge finalists will have their vehicle displayed in the PRO booth (#50203 in the West Hall) during the week of the SEMA Show. Judges will select a PRO Cup Challenge winner based on the vehicle's marketability, ease of production, creativity and profitability. Additionally, SEMA Showgoers are invited to visit the builds on-site and scan a QR code to vote for the winner of the People's Choice award.

This year's PRO Cup Challenge competitors are:  

• Auto Trim Design of Utah, '24 Hyundai Santa Fe                
• Auto Trim Restyling, '24 Toyota Land Cruiser  
• Automotive Concepts, '24 Chevrolet Silverado   
• Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh LLC, '24 Toyota RAV4 XLE Hybrid  
• Keystone Styling, '24 Ford F-150 
• MARS of Billings, '24 Ford Bronco   

SEMA Showgoers have until 2:00 p.m. PST on Wednesday, November 6, to submit their People's Choice votes in the PRO booth. The PRO Cup Challenge and People's Choice award winners will be announced during the PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 6, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. PST in the PRO booth. 

"The SEMA Show is all about discovering new products, vehicle trends, and ideas that can take businesses and careers to new levels," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "We look forward to seeing restylers use the latest parts and accessories to showcase their skills and creativity."

To learn more about the PRO Cup Challenge, visit sema.org/pro-cup-challenge. To learn more about PRO, visit sema.org/pro. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named ORACLE Lighting as the council's newest member company. Get to know their story in the SEMA News interview with Justin Hartenstein, ORACLE Lighting's founder, below. 

SEMA News: Tell us the story of ORACLE Lighting. How did the company start?  

Justin Hartenstein: I started Oracle Lighting in my garage back in 1999 at just 17 years old. As a true enthusiast, I began by developing custom lighting solutions for my own personal project vehicles. These innovative lighting products became popular when photos were posted to online message boards and other enthusiasts just had to have them. This consumer demand created organic growth and sales, which caused a company to naturally form around these innovative products. 

SN: What's going on these days? What projects are you most excited about? 

JH: Today, Oracle Lighting is considered one of the leaders in innovative, aftermarket automotive lighting accessories and has grown to employ more than 30 full-time team members. In 2021, Oracle received the SEMA Manufacturer of the Year Award, the SEMA YEN Vanguard Award and the SEMA Data Excellence Award. With more than 10,000 innovative product SKUs, Oracle Lighting is proud to offer our resellers the most comprehensive lighting line in the automotive industry. 

SN: What's the best piece of advice you have for professionals getting started in the aftermarket? 

JH: If you are an enthusiast just getting started in the aftermarket, be sure to remember that love for automobiles that drew you to this industry in the first place. As we become more and more focused on the business side, it is easy to lose that passion that made us want to work in this industry in the first place. Little reminders of what a privilege it is to do a job I love in an industry I am truly passionate about gives me gratitude and motivation to continue to excel every day. 

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates. 

By SEMA News Editors

Joe Elmore, host of automotive television shows "Horsepower TV" and "Muscle Cars," passed away earlier this year. He was 80 years old.

An Arkansas native, Elmore moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in 1985, where he began working for the Nashville Network before his rise to prominence in the automotive world began with "Horsepower TV."

Additionally, he served as host of "Tennessee Crossroads," a magazine-style travel show that airs on stations across Tennessee and the Southeast.

For more on Elmore, including a statement from POWERNATION, click here.

By SEMA News Editors

Get ready for SEMA Fest 2024 and the Friday Enthusiast Experience, Friday, November 8, on the SEMA Show Campus. Get your tickets now to join the ultimate car culture celebration featuring a packed concert lineup and thrilling automotive and action sports demonstrations from Nitro Circus and more.

Click HERE to purchase tickets.

Fans of speed, power and performance who attend SEMA Fest will experience:  

• Nitro Circus will perform an electrifying demonstration featuring renowned freestyle motocross (FMX) athletes Keith Sayers, Luke Dolin, Willie Elam, Kieran Ursua and more, who are set to push the boundaries of what's possible in action sports. 
• Shell Performance Unbound--experience the thrill of driving a race car in a Shell race simulator and enter to win a drifting experience! 
• The Best of the SEMA Show! Purchase a Friday Enthusiast Experience ticket and enjoy Battle of the Builders, Overland Experience, Ride With Us and much more! 

This event is packed with excitement for adrenaline junkies and music lovers alike. Whether you're watching mind-blowing tricks or rocking out to your favorite tunes from Cage the Elephant, SUBLIME, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey, it's all happening in one day--and you won't want to miss it. 

Bundle tickets are selling fast, so grab yours now to secure your spot at the ultimate celebration of speed, power and performance! 

Purchase your tickets now and find out more information at semashow.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Get ready for SEMA Fest 2024 and the Friday Enthusiast Experience, Friday, November 8, on the SEMA Show Campus. Get your tickets now to join the ultimate car culture celebration featuring a packed concert lineup and thrilling automotive and action sports demonstrations from Nitro Circus and more.

Click HERE to purchase tickets.

Fans of speed, power and performance who attend SEMA Fest will experience:  

• Nitro Circus will perform an electrifying demonstration featuring renowned freestyle motocross (FMX) athletes Keith Sayers, Luke Dolin, Willie Elam, Kieran Ursua and more, who are set to push the boundaries of what's possible in action sports. 
• Shell Performance Unbound--experience the thrill of driving a race car in a Shell race simulator and enter to win a drifting experience! 
• The Best of the SEMA Show! Purchase a Friday Enthusiast Experience ticket and enjoy Battle of the Builders, Overland Experience, Ride With Us and much more! 

This event is packed with excitement for adrenaline junkies and music lovers alike. Whether you're watching mind-blowing tricks or rocking out to your favorite tunes from Cage the Elephant, SUBLIME, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey, it's all happening in one day--and you won't want to miss it. 

Bundle tickets are selling fast, so grab yours now to secure your spot at the ultimate celebration of speed, power and performance! 

Purchase your tickets now and find out more information at semashow.com.