News | Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA)

2024 SEMA Show Recap: OEMs Introduce Builds, Accessory Packages on the Show Floor

Thu, 11/14/2024 - 13:47

By SEMA News Editors

The 2024 SEMA Show, which took over the Las Vegas Convention Center last week, was more than a showcase for more than 2,400 manufacturers and brands; it also featured several OEMs and automakers unveiling exciting new concepts, vehicles and accessory packages. These additions highlighted the event's commitment to innovation, bringing together cutting-edge designs and products from across the industry.

The following is an overview of the OEM's presence on the SEMA Show floor from last week.

Ford Performance Parts & Accessories Introduces 'Ford Custom Garage' at 2024 SEMA Show

In the Ford Performance Parts & Accessories booth was a must-have lineup of Ford trucks and SUVs, creating new opportunities to help customers imagine, build and show off the ride of their dreams with Ford Custom Garage, an easy new way for vehicle owners to customize their vehicle with exclusive, limited-edition appearance and performance upgrades that will change over time to stay fresh and unique.

In support of Ford Custom Garage, Ford Vehicle Personalization utilized the SEMA Show to showcase several concept project vehicles.

"We've created four previews of potential and planned future Ford Custom Garage customization packages for today's Bronco, Bronco Sport and F-150 customers, plus one head-turning tribute to Ford Truck heritage that has the heart of a supercharged Raptor R V8 and the soul of '69 F-100 style," said Kim Mathers, director of Ford Vehicle Personalization and Performance Parts.

Available for both on-road and off-road vehicles, Ford Custom Garage starts with two complete packages for Ford Bronco--Matte Black and Sinister Bronze--which are now available at Ford dealers across North America and were on display at the event last week.

Ford was also able to share that additional packages are coming soon, including the Dark Trail Series for Bronco, Blue Free Wheeling for Bronco Sport, and F-150 FP700S by Ford Performance Parts.

Among the 2024 SEMA Show Ford display vehicles were:

Bronco Wild Fund Project Vehicle, a Bronco Big Bend 4-door with a 2.3L EcoBoost engine.
Bronco Sport Wild Fund Project Vehicle, the '25 Bronco Sport Badlands Sasquatch with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine.
F-150 ORV Project Vehicle, the Ford Performance ORV F-150 starts with a '24 F-150 XLT FX4 with a 5.0L V8.
F-150 FP700S by Ford Performance Parts, an aggressive Street Truck that starts with a '24 Ford F-150 XL Regular Cab two-wheel drive.

Honda Racing Corporation Uses SEMA to Announce New High-Performance Parts Business

Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), also known as Honda Racing, is the motorsport subsidiary of the Honda Motor Company. Its SEMA Show booth this year showcased the brand's new performance parts division and prominently featured brand ambassador and auto expert Dionne Mascunana of OMG Builds.

"HRC is going to get into something really fun here. We're going to get into the high-performance parts business. At Honda, we race everything from Indy[Car] to IMSA to obviously Formula 1 and even Baja trucks. We have a lot of knowledge here with all of the HRC folks in Japan and here in America; we've got a lot of people who are versed in all disciplines of making cars go faster, and we want to be able to share all this know-how by creating performance parts so we could connect more with enthusiasts," said Jon Ikeda, senior vice president of HRC Business Division. "Going forward, we want to make authentic high-performance parts they will be able to put on their vehicles. It's an exciting day here for HRC at SEMA."

Among the Honda vehicles on display at SEMA were:

Formerly known as Honda Performance Development (HPD), HRC US has been winning races and championships on and off the road for three decades and will use this extensive know-how to introduce a new line of performance parts for retail customers.

Based on the strong interest generated by the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype, displayed at Monterey Car Week in August 2024, HRC has decided to move forward with the creation of new lines of authentic performance parts specifically for retail consumers in North America. These new parts will leverage the technical knowledge and expertise of championship-winning HRC race engineers, and the first prototypes are expected to be ready as early as next year. As a hugely successful racing brand for years, HRC US is uniquely positioned to offer parts for customers to enhance the performance of their own Honda and Acura vehicles.

"HRC US has been winning races and championships on and off-road for three decades, and we're excited to apply this experience to new lines of performance parts for Honda and Acura enthusiasts eager to augment their performance driving experience," said Ikeda. "To be an HRC genuine part, it must meet our exacting standards while functionally improving vehicle performance and the driving experience."

See more of Honda's SEMA Show coverage on its Instagram page here.

Infiniti USA Brings Luxury to the SEMA Show Floor

Tailgate season just became a more refined experience with the introduction of the INFINITI AUTOGRAPH Lounge, a luxurious reimagination of tailgating in the all-new '25 INFINITI QX80. Discover luxury where everything, for every passenger, is just right with this dedicated vehicle.

KIA America Inc. Makes Exciting Return to SEMA With Custom EV Concepts

Kia America unveiled two all-new customized concept vehicles on the opening day of the SEMA Show. Imagined by designers from Kia Design Center America (KDCA), the concepts bring to life a future where vehicles will provide the ultimate in capability, adaptability, utility and organization, all with an eye on sustainability.

"Our vehicles already help people live their active and adventurous lifestyles, and it was fun to see just how far we could go with these latest concepts. The SEMA Show acts as a blank canvas for creativity and offers a glimpse into what Kia's automotive future may hold," said Steven Center, COO and executive vice president of Kia America.

There were two custom concept lifestyle KIA vehicles displayed at the SEMA Show:

EV9 ADVNTR CONCEPT EV SUV, a genuinely unique all-electric three-row SUV designed to take life well beyond the beaten path-- and conquer it. Built for serious fun, the '25 EV9 EV SUV has been refined into the most adventurous SUV Kia has ever imagined. With custom front and rear facias for a unique and rugged look--and reinforced rocker panels for increased capability and character--the EV9 ADVNTR EV SUV also features a 3-in." lift compared to the standard EV9 and a rugged tire and wheel combination to maximize the vehicle's off-road capability, and much more.
PV5 WKNDR CONCEPT EV VAN, based on Kia's recently debuted line of EV purpose beyond vehicles, is designed for small businesses and delivery functionality. It is a highly capable van lifted and equipped with off-road tires, an ideal escape pod for extended weekends in nature. The PV5 WKNDR EV VAN features a highly flexible and adaptable modular interior that can be easily and efficiently customized to maximize space and function--akin to a Swiss Army Knife on wheels.

"The aftermarket--for any manufacturer--is good business. Especially as we as a brand have become so focused and so good at utility vehicles, we knew that off-roading accessories and that space made a lot of sense. And we see this, especially in electrified vehicles, as a really good place because somebody who's going off-road wants to do it responsibly," said James Bell, head of corporate communications for Kia America.

Mopar/Stellantis Puts a Charge Into SEMA With New Concept Vehicles

Mopar put a serious charge into the SEMA Show with new, head-turning concept vehicles combined to showcase a wide range of distinctly different appearances and performance modifications to enthusiasts.

"Our new Mopar concept vehicles showcase different ends of the performance spectrum, bringing innovative design and engineering expertise with a zero-emissions muscle car concept and the latest ideas for the Ram Sport truck lineup," said Mike Koval Jr., head of Mopar North America. "Whether it's envisioning an electrified propulsion system or outfitting the most capable production off-road pickups, Mopar is ready to enhance the customer experience with quality-tested, factory-backed parts and accessories."

Among the Mopar vehicles on display at the SEMA Show include:

Plymouth GTX Electromod Concept, a peek into the future of possible battery-electric vehicle (BEV) conversion kit applications by showing a potential future Mopar e-Crate propulsion system for enthusiasts to build or convert classic and current cars and trucks into BEVs.
Ram 2500 Power Wagon Concept, which is a rugged HEMI-powered full-size truck that performs flawlessly as a daily workhorse or weekend warrior.
Moparized Ram 1500 RHO, now the latest addition to the Ram Sport truck lineup and a perfect canvas for the custom bold Mopar Blue bodyside graphics that provide a striking contrast from the satin metallic Diamond Black exterior underneath.

In addition, the Dodge performance parts brand Direct Connection showcased a lineup of crate engines and products, plus the Direct Connection HurriCrate Cat 3 crate engine-powered '87 Dodge D150 of Morgan Evans, winner of the Direct Connection Grudge Race at the recent Roadkill Nights Powered by Dodge event.

Showgoers were also treated to the "power couple," a metallic blue and dual white striped Ram REV pulling a matching and modified version of the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Banshee concept.

Jeep was also well represented on the SEMA Show floor, including several custom builds that made their debut after conquering the challenging trails in Moab, Utah, during the 58th annual Easter Jeep Safari last March:

Jeep Low Down Concept
Jeep Willys Dispatcher Concept
Jeep Gladiator Rubicon High Top Concept, which will carry, for the first time, the newest custom piece from the design team at Mopar and Jeep Performance Parts. The Mopar ILLUMINAT3 off-road lighting accessory is a pivoting lightbar concept with patented innovative features, allowing the outer lights to hinge and rotate around the roof, illuminating all areas around the vehicle.
Jeep Vacationeer Concept

Nissan North America Brought the Thrill With Project Vehicles, Nissan Z Legend Accessory Package Concept

Nissan brought the thrill to the SEMA Show with four project builds and an accessory concept illustrating how Nissan vehicles can be a canvas for four-wheeled excitement.

This year's Nissan project vehicles highlighted how owners might build on the distinctive styling and capability of the '25 Frontier pickup and all-new '25 Kicks crossover to build a unique vehicle that amplifies their personality.

Also making its debut is the Nissan Z Legend accessory package concept, inspired by the popular Z Heritage Edition. Recreating the throwback look of the limited-run '24 Z Heritage Edition, the Nissan Z Legend accessory package concept is an unmistakable homage to Z car history. The Legend package adds vintage-look wheels, a carbon fiber rear spoiler, over-fenders and other decals. Easter eggs include an emblem on the C-pillar that showcases seven gears, a nod to the seven generations of the Nissan Z.

Among the SEMA Show vehicles on display in the Nissan booth were:

Project Trailgater, built in partnership with PowerNation TV's "Music City Trucks" and based on a '25 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X. SEMA News readers interested in learning more can view a three-part series of how the truck was built on the PowerNation channel.
Frontier TARMAC concept, a one-off street truck that embodies the spirit of sport and muscle trucks of the past. This vehicle was a collaboration between Nissan Motorsports, Nissan Design America and Forsberg Racing.
Kicks Beach Patrol concept, inspired by the rescue trucks that used to patrol beaches, this build features intelligent all-wheel drive and best-in-class standard ground clearance, priming it for adventures beyond the parking lot.
Kicks Urband Shadow concept, which takes inspiration from tuner culture with graphics, wheels and suspension modifications that promote on-road excitement. The build shows the potential for Kicks drivers to modify their vehicles and showcases prototype NISMO parts.

Toyota Motor North America Booth Overflowing With Modified Builds

Toyota Motor North America at the SEMA Show

The Toyota Motor North America booth was once again one of the most dominant forces on the SEMA Show floor, this year teeming with countless custom vehicles and innovations.

Among the Toyota vehicles on display at the SEMA Show were:

4Runner TRD Surf Concept, which draws inspiration from an iconic time in history when the Toyota 4Runner became a staple at '80s SoCal beaches as surfers sought the perfect wave. Built at the Toyota Motorsports Garage, this unique vehicle blends the rugged, open-air spirit of the first-generation 4Runner with the modern styling and advanced technology of the all-new '25 model.
CALTY Land Cruiser Recreation Open eXperience (ROX), which is a bold reimagining of the iconic open-air, open-top Land Cruiser models of the past, designed for modern outdoor adventures. Spearheaded by Toyota's CALTY Design Research, the Land Cruiser ROX features a fully open-air design with custom "skeleton" doors, a sliding soft top, and a functional mid-gate for seamless integration with nature. Learn more about the CALTY Land Cruise ROX in this exclusive Toyota video below.
GR86 Rally Legacy Concept, which concept drew inspiration from the iconic Celica GT-Four rally cars as a tribute to Toyota's rich rally racing heritage. Based on a '24 GR86 with Performance Package, the build features a complete powertrain swap with the GR Corolla's turbocharged 3-cylinder GR-FOUR AWD drivetrain.
No. 84 Tacoma TRD ProRunner Race Concept, which celebrates Toyota's new partnership with Legacy Motor Club and legendary driver Jimmie Johnson. This concept tasked engineers to transform a two-door Tacoma XtraCab into a TRD-equipped desert racer.
Ultimate Tailgate Tundra, a custom build inspired by Toyota's relationship with the NFL as the Official Automotive Partner. This tailgating powerhouse features a custom staging shell with five 55-in. weatherproof outdoor screens and a bespoke audio system based on the JBL Club Marine Series.
Toyota RAV-X Concept, a groundbreaking crossover concept inspired by the rugged endurance reputation of the Dakar Rally. Developed by Toyota's Service Parts and Accessories Development (SPAD) team, this concept emphasizes agile off-road capability and high-speed performance.
Suprabird Tribute, conceived to honor the career of NASCAR legend Richard Petty--Toyota's newest ambassador--and as a celebration of Toyota's partnership with Legacy Motor Club.
Classic Adventure Cruiser, a tasteful build featuring a full Toyota TRD lift with Trailhunter front suspension and fully custom rear.
'94 Toyota Drift Truck, a pet project of Toyota Ambassador Rutledge Wood, this '94 Toyota Minitruck began life as a grocery-getter. With a surface aesthetic inspired by off-road Baja trucks, the truck's transformation includes fiberglass bed sides and a completely custom front-end conversion, combined with robust fenders.
Modellista Overland Vision Concept, as a part of the Associated Accessories Products (AAP) portfolio, this Land Cruiser build exemplifies the Modellista brand's sophisticated design and innovative approach.

Inside Calty's workshop, watch master craftsmen tackle the audacious challenge of transforming the Land Cruiser ROX. With SEMA's deadline looming, engineering ingenuity and design brilliance collide in this high-stakes episode of automotive artistry.

Connecticut Governor Backs Off EV Mandate in Major Win for SEMA Members

Thu, 11/14/2024 - 13:14

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a major reversal, Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont this week said an electric-vehicle (EV) mandate was no longer under consideration for the state.

Connecticut, as a CARB state, had sought--and failed--to phase out all new sales of internal-combustion engines by 2035, and was also adhering to current Biden Administration Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules, which say 56% of new cars must be electric by 2032.

"No," Lamont told reporters when asked if EV mandates were still on the table. "We were following the federal standards, and I think the federal standards are no more," referring to the expected Trump Administration action to void the current EPA tailpipe emissions rule.

The decision represents a major advocacy win for SEMA and its members. SEMA is not anti-EV, but rather believes that government should remain technology-neutral in its efforts to support carbon emissions reductions. Mandates favor single modes of technology, stifling innovation and kneecapping efforts to develop other promising solutions.

SEMA invested heavily to educate Connecticut residents and lawmakers about the dire impact of EV mandates on their state, commissioning a poll showing overwhelming disapproval of a state ban on gas-powered vehicles, and running an advertisement that aired statewide and online to highlight the automotive aftermarket's innovative work to improve vehicles and encourage the use of alternative fuels. SEMA also highlighted Connecticut's vibrant automotive aftermarket industry, whose annual economic impact exceeds $3.79 billion, and supports more than 13,000 jobs, $1.26 billion in total wages and benefits, and $195 million in state and local taxes paid.

Connecticut Governor Backs Off EV Mandate in Major Win for SEMA Members

Thu, 11/14/2024 - 13:14

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In a major reversal, Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont this week said an electric-vehicle (EV) mandate was no longer under consideration for the state.

Connecticut, as a CARB state, had sought--and failed--to phase out all new sales of internal-combustion engines by 2035, and was also adhering to current Biden Administration Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules, which say 56% of new cars must be electric by 2032.

"No," Lamont told reporters when asked if EV mandates were still on the table. "We were following the federal standards, and I think the federal standards are no more," referring to the expected Trump Administration action to void the current EPA tailpipe emissions rule.

The decision represents a major advocacy win for SEMA and its members. SEMA is not anti-EV, but rather believes that government should remain technology-neutral in its efforts to support carbon emissions reductions. Mandates favor single modes of technology, stifling innovation and kneecapping efforts to develop other promising solutions.

SEMA invested heavily to educate Connecticut residents and lawmakers about the dire impact of EV mandates on their state, commissioning a poll showing overwhelming disapproval of a state ban on gas-powered vehicles, and running an advertisement that aired statewide and online to highlight the automotive aftermarket's innovative work to improve vehicles and encourage the use of alternative fuels. SEMA also highlighted Connecticut's vibrant automotive aftermarket industry, whose annual economic impact exceeds $3.79 billion, and supports more than 13,000 jobs, $1.26 billion in total wages and benefits, and $195 million in state and local taxes paid.

FLN Member Spotlight: Robert Presley of Keystone Automotive Operations

Thu, 11/14/2024 - 12:33

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Robert Presley, strategic account manager at Keystone Automotive Operations, as the network's newest spotlight member.

Get to know Presley in his interview with SEMA News below.

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received?

Robert Presley: People buy from people; it's about relationships first and foremost.

SN: What keeps you in the industry?

RP: Passion. I find it exciting to be selling products that I was saving to buy as a teenager. I love that the aftermarket has a corner for everyone, and it allows personalities to shine through different vehicles, modifications and accessories.

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?

RP: Turning wrenches, at a car event or maybe playing golf.

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting?

RP: I believe preparation equals success. I make sure I have a detailed agenda and understand who the audience is and what the purpose or goal of this meeting is.

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be?

RP: Carroll Shelby. I've been a self-acclaimed Ford fan as long as I can remember, and who did more for Ford Performance and racing?

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates.

Spy Shots: Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Tesla Model Y Juniper, Range Rover Velar EV

Thu, 11/14/2024 - 11:47

By SEMA News Editors

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Refresh Spotted at the Nürburgring

Photographers recently captured new images of the refreshed Porsche 911 GT3 RS in development at the Nürburgring.

In addition to visible updates to the front bumper and headlights, the rear will see significant changes, including redesigned corner air outlets on the bumper and new taillights, matching updates across the 911 lineup. Other updates were made to the diffuser, according to the images.

Interior photos aren't yet available, but it's expected that the entire series will switch to an all-digital instrument cluster, including the GT3 RS, although additional interior changes are anticipated to be minimal.

The 4.0L naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine is expected to remain unchanged.

Tesla Model Y 'Juniper' Breaks Cover Night Testing In Europe

SEMA News sources recently caught the first images of the Tesla Model Y Juniper, expected to debut in early 2025.

The Model Y Juniper is expected to feature a new rear light bar spanning the back of the vehicle, complete with Tesla branding--an addition that sets the Juniper model apart from previous Model Y and Model 3 versions. In the front, new headlights have a "C-shaped" appearance using LED matrix technology and adaptive capabilities, according to sources.

Inside, the Juniper upgrade will use premium materials and feature an updated center console with dual wireless charging, an improved armrest and extra storage options. Tesla may also introduce cooled seats and ergonomic adjustments. Insiders are also expecting the removal of traditional steering column stalks, similar to the latest Model 3, with essential controls shifted to the steering wheel.

Range Rover Velar Electric Spied Testing In Spain

A camouflaged prototype of the Range Rover Velar electric vehicle (EV) was recently spotted testing in Spain sporting sleeker headlights, a coupe-like roofline and a tapered rear profile. The enhanced design features include slim taillights, flush door handles and a distinct double-finned aerial.

Jaguar Land Rover JLR has positioned the Velar EV as a luxury offering on its new EMA platform. However, with the cooling demand for EVs in 2024 and high interest in JLR’s PHEV models, the release timeline for the Velar Electric and other EMA-based EVs may be pushed back, according to sources.

Expected to feature dual-motor all-wheel drive, the Velar Electric will likely retain the original Velar’s footprint, promising both on-road performance and off-road capability, insiders said. The Velar Electric will feature a long wheelbase, bold roofline and aerodynamic front fascia, hinting at a spacious interior that may even accommodate three rows of seating.

SEMA Reveals Inaugural Visionary 8 Honorees

Thu, 11/14/2024 - 11:24

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA has announced the recipients of its Visionary 8 honor program, recognizing rising stars who are making a positive impact within the automotive aftermarket.

New for 2024, the SEMA Visionary 8 program honors eight young professionals aged 35 and under who are on track to change and/or advance the automotive specialty-equipment market. Criteria include having active industry involvement and the demonstrated talent, innovation, integrity, success and leadership that is needed to become a driver of the industry.

"This year's honorees have a passion for the industry and a work ethic that is truly inspiring," said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Jose Escobar. "We are proud to recognize their fresh perspectives, dedication to personal advancement and out-of-the-box thinking that is pushing the industry forward."

Each Visionary 8 recipient was recognized at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas and will be featured in an in-depth article in an upcoming issue of SEMA magazine.

The 2024 SEMA Visionary 8 are:

Cavan Cameron, car designer and student, Horizon Motorsports
Joe Gregory, project engineer-TrailFX, LKQ Specialty Product Group
Nicole Hamilton, director of marketing, Engaged Media
Zack Hampton, owner, Chromotize
Melanie Henry, communications and traffic manager, Martin & Company Advertising
Solomon Lunger, founder, Solos MFG
Kevin Sayo, founder, Dongar Technologies LLC
Dan Ziegler, business partner integration manager, Turn 14 Distribution

"I'm honored. I've never won anything like this before," said Hamilton. "This is a huge accomplishment for me and I'm very excited for it."

Entrepreneurship, insight, integrity, responsibility, and demonstrated skill all weigh heavily in the judges' decision-making process. Nominations for next year's SEMA Visionary 8 will open in Summer of 2025.

SEMA Applauds President-Elect Trump's EPA Administrator Selection

Thu, 11/14/2024 - 08:44

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

President-elect Donald J. Trump has selected former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin (above) to serve as administrator of the EPA.

President-elect Donald J. Trump has selected former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin to serve as his administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Trump has promised on "Day 1" to end federal electric-vehicle (EV) mandates, a major factor in the nation's decision to deliver him a second election victory.

SEMA played a major role in bringing the EV mandate issue to the forefront of the election, using its Driving Force Action SuperPAC to educate American voters on the damage that such policies will cause for the nation's automotive small businesses and consumers.

SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola reacted to the selection in a statement. Read the full statement below:

SEMA, on behalf of its more than 7,500 members in the automotive aftermarket industry, and the nation’s millions of automotive enthusiasts, applauds President-elect Donald J. Trump’s selection of Lee Zeldin to lead the EPA. SEMA urges the U.S. Senate to quickly and resoundingly confirm former Rep. Zeldin for the role of EPA Administrator.

Former Rep. Zeldin, as a member of Congress and the bipartisan Climate Solutions Caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives, sought to combat climate change while also protecting the nation’s economic prosperity through constructive dialogue about climate change, economics, energy and conservation. He was a champion of one of the automotive aftermarket industry’s previous legislative efforts to defend manufacturers, retailers and enthusiasts against EPA overreach. His actions are reasonable and clear-headed in their approach to environmental issues.

SEMA stands ready to support Rep. Zeldin when the confirmation process begins in 2025, and work with him and his team to develop environmental policies that support the needs of small businesses and automotive enthusiasts nationwide.

Read the full statement here.