Thu, 11/02/2023 - 10:38

By Ashley Reyes

Education and networking were prominent during the first few days of the 2023 SEMA Show, now through November 3. Industry members gathered at worthwhile events to grow their professional network and discover new opportunities to elevate and strengthen their businesses.  

Following is a recap of some of the SEMA Council and Network events designed to elevate the specialty-equipment aftermarket at the 2023 Show.

SEMA Political Action Committee (PAC) Raises More Than $50,000 Reception

PAC

The SEMA PAC Reception helped to raise more than $50,000 towards uplifting the automotive aftermarket on Tuesday, October 31.

Networking was in full swing at the SEMA PAC Reception on Tuesday, October 31, at the AZILO Ultra Lounge in the Sahara Hotel. The event allowed members the opportunity to learn more about how SEMA PAC supports the industry and meet the SEMA Government Affairs team based out of Washington, D.C., working full-time to fight legislative threats to the automotive hobby and pass favorable laws.

"The SEMA PAC Reception brought together the best in the industry to support our shared mission to advocate for the interests of the automotive aftermarket sector and racing communities," said Alicia Steger, SEMA PAC manager. "Not only did we get to connect and network with industry leaders, but SEMA PAC successfully raised more than $50,000 towards uplifting the automotive aftermarket. The fundraiser's success was only possible with the dedication and support of each participant, donor and supporter. Together, we have reinforced the significance of advocating for our industry's growth, development and sustainability. Thank you to everyone who attended, and we cannot wait to see you at the next one!"  

Norris Marshall Wade

Norris Marshall, left, was honored as the SEMA PAC 'Person of the Year.' Marshall is seen here with the executive director of SEMA and PRI PACs Wade Kawasaki.

In addition, the Government Affairs office took time to recognize Norris Marshall, CEO of BluePrint Engines and SEMA Board of Directors member, as the "SEMA PAC Person of the Year." Marshall was honored for his tireless advocacy for the PAC and SEMA Government affairs work, and his leadership and love for the industry.  

ARMO/HRIA Vehicle Unveil Inspiring, New Vehicles to a Worldwide Audience

Rolling works of art were unveiled at the Automotive Restoration Organization Market (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) combined ARMO/HRIA Booth #23295, Central Hall on Tuesday, October 31. 

ARMO HRIA unveil

On behalf of ARMO, Lonely Driver Company debuted a custom '73 Datsun 240Z (left), while J-Rod Customs built a one-of-a-kind '78 Cherokee for the HRIA.

On behalf of ARMO, Lonely Driver Company debuted a custom '73 Datsun 240Z. 

"[The importance behind these unveilings is] the production of years and years of hard work. From the ARMO side, we wanted to project that we're not only just American musclecars, but we're Asian musclecars. We're European restorations. We're all of that. That's why we brought an American car in. We brought a Japanese 240 in, and we brought a Porsche in. So we want to reach out to those communities saying, you could be a part of ARMO too," said ARMO Chair Randall Bates of Auto Custom Carpets.

J-Rod Customs, meanwhile, debuted a one-of-a-kind '78 Cherokee for the HRIA.

A yearly tradition at the SEMA Show, the unveilings showcase talented builders and allow manufacturers to present their brands and products to worldwide audiences. 

Thriving Truck and Off-Road Segment Covered During Builders Panel, Powered by TORA

Top-tier builders discussed the growing popularity of accessorizing vintage trucks and SUVs during the SEMA Education seminar "Truck and Off-Road Builders Panel, Powered by TORA" on Tuesday, October 31.

TORA panel

Panelists discussed how to tap into the truck and off-road accessories market, one of the most lucrative segments today, during the "Truck and Off-Road Builders Panel, Powered by TORA" at the 2023 SEMA Show.

The session--moderated by Sean Holman, head adventurer at Use for Adventure Inc.--delved into the experiences and insights of panelists Tara Thompson, general manager at Dixie 4 Wheel Drive; Bond Gilmer, president at Rebel Off Road; and Rebeca Olavarrieta, CEO at Roco 4x4. Attendees learned about new trends and what today's top builders consider the best growth opportunities in the thriving modern truck and performance segment. 

Top Hot Rod Builders Discuss Current State of Market During Panel, Powered by HRIA

During the "Hot Rod Builders Panel, Powered by HRIA" seminar on Tuesday, October 31, Rick Love, president at Vintage Air Inc., guided a lively and entertaining discussion featuring panelists car designer and automotive artist Chip Foose; Bobby Alloway, owner at Alloway's Hot Rod Shop; Jim Ring and Mike Ring, co-owners at Ringbrothers; and Troy Trepanier, owner at Rad Rides by Troy.

HRIA panel

(Left) HRIA Builders Panel moderator Rick Love of Vintage Air was joined by industry icon, builder and official SEMA Show artist Chip Foose during the HRIA Builders Panel on the first day of the 2023 SEMA Show.

Attendees learned about the current state of the hot-rod segment, plus strategies to help them navigate the business of building hot rods and the latest trends. 

New Insights Into the Evolution of Restoration, Powered by ARMO

The SEMA ARMO held its "Education of Restoration, Powered by ARMO" seminar, offering new insights into the evolution of the restoration market and covering everything from traditional restorations to restomods.

Insights

Topics covered during the "Education of Restoration, Powered by ARMO" seminar included how to manage different types of builds and overcome challenges like supply shortages.

Attendees heard from Jeff Farina, senior sourcing manager at JEGS, as he moderated a panel featuring Dave Hall, owner at Restore A Musclecar; Rod Emroy, owner at Emroy Motorsports; Bryan Fuller, owner at Fuller Moto; and Darin Smith, owner at DWS Classics Inc.  

During the session, topics included how to manage diverse types of builds, set goals, overcome challenges, address supply-chain shortages and prepare a shop for future growth.


Check the 2023 SEMA Show schedule of events for related networking and education events to boost your business and professional career.

Wed, 11/01/2023 - 16:39

Welcome to the SEMA Show, now through November 3 in Las Vegas! Yesterday, the doors of the Las Vegas Convention Center opened for the countless attendees, buyers, media members and automotive professionals to see the latest innovations straight from the Show floor.

In addition, several special events and activations wowed attendees, from the SEMA Awards New Product Showcase, Manufacturer and Channel Partner of the Year (read the SEMA News recap here), exhibitor unveilings and announcements (read the SEMA News recap here) and the rubber-burning excitement of the outdoor activations (read the SEMA News recap here).

Watch the recap of yesterday's events on the SEMA YouTube page and below:

 

 

Wed, 11/01/2023 - 15:12

Welcome to the SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas! Yesterday, exhibitors and early arrivals were treated to a lineup of events, including world-class educational sessions like the Digital Marketing Bootcamp (read the SEMA News recap here). In addition, Show organizers celebrated exhibitors and industry innovators during the SEMA Show Exhibitor Afterparty (read the SEMA News recap here) and the SEMA Show Monday Reveal (read the SEMA News recap here). 

Watch the recap of yesterday's events on the SEMA YouTube page and below:

Wed, 11/01/2023 - 14:32

By Kenny Wright and Laura Pitts

The SEMA Show, now through November 3 in Las Vegas, is a true five-senses experience, and nothing makes that more clear than the far-reaching outdoor activations in the parking lots outside of the Las Vegas Convention Center. SEMA Show attendees who haven't yet visited these Show features should prepare for the familiar tire-smoke, adrenaline and excitement.

Below is a sampling of what is in store outside of the LVCC for attendees during all Show hours:

Shell Performance Unbound

Booth #81059 and Booth #81125Silver Lot (outside of Central Hall)

Shell

Shell invites SEMA Show participants to the Shell Performance Unbound location in the Silver Lot (outside of Central Hall). Shell scientists are on hand, explaining the science and key details behind its latest fuel technology.  

"I learned more about how fuel works today than I've ever known," said SEMA Show attendee Kim Johnson.

"I've been driving my whole adult life, and I never knew what really goes into my gasoline. But, this exhibit was really eye-opening… and now, I'll think twice about what gas I put into my car," said SEMA Show attendee Andrew Harlowe. 

Best of all, when SEMA Show attendees complete a passport gamecard available only at the Shell V-Power NiTRO+ Booth #81059 and Booth #81125, they can enter to win a drifting experience with one of Shell's pro drift drivers in the outdoor activation. Plus, take the chance to win fantastic prizes and giveaways throughout the week.

Tag Shell on social media and follow the action using the hashtag #ShellVPower!

HOONIGAN

Silver Lot 3 (outside of Central Hall)

Hoonigan

Get ready for a week of tire-slaying mayhem! That's right, Hoonigan brought the Burnyard back to SEMA Show with two complimentary shows each day, 11:00 a.m. PDT and 3:00 p.m. PDT in Silver Lot 3. Want to party on the weekend instead? SEMA has also partnered with Hoonigan for exclusive live shows during SEMA Fest, November 3-4, at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds. 

OPTIMA Village

OPTIMA Village (Booth #84380)Bronze Lot (outside of South Hall)

OPTIMA Batteries once again brought the action to Las Vegas! Its huge footprint in the Bronze Lot features no-stop drifting, stunt driving and all the tire squealing action. Giveaways from the OPTIMA team included brand prizes and drifting ride-along sessions with qualified team members.

"OPTIMA Village is where the sights, sounds and smells come together," said attendee Sally N. "I couldn't help but follow the smoke and catch a show (or two) while walking by South Hall."

Ride With Us

Booth #72000, Diamond Lot (outside of West Hall)

For anyone who has ever wanted to ride a motorcycle but never tried, then the "Ride With Us" activation at the SEMA Show is a must-see. You can learn how to safely (and confidently!) ride a motorcycle with training from expert instructors on the Motorcycle Industry Council's trained Ride With Us team.  

"It's pretty cool. I've never ridden a motorcycle before, and these guys had me ready to go and riding on my own in fifteen minutes," said attendee Charlie Santiago. 

"We are excited to return to the SEMA Show and help Show attendees just how fun and rewarding it can be to ride a motorcycle. Our unique format is one of the best ways to start your motorcycle journey, as we provide the safety gear, the motorcycles and the coaches. All you need to bring are the smiles," Cinnamon Kernes of Ride With Us said to SEMA News.

SEMA Overland Experience

Booth #71000, Diamond Lot (outside of West Hall)

Overland

Custom overland vehicles as far as the eye can see welcome enthusiasts in the newly expanded SEMA Overland Experience, now in the Diamond Lot outside of West Hall. Overland day trips, camping adventures or living off grid, the SEMA Overland Experience has just a little bit for everyone, all in one location.

"Dude, if you're into the overlanding scene, you could spend all day here," said SEMA Show attendee Nate Caldwell. For more details, including sneak peeks at SEMA Overland Experience builds set for display this year, visit here.

Feature Vehicle Displays

Across the SEMA Show campus

FV

The SEMA Show is renowned for the innovative parts and accessories displayed on Show vehicles representing every industry niche, from cars to trucks to powersports. Much more than rolling works of art, the feature vehicles offer an in-person look at the real-life applications of the aftermarket's latest and most exciting products. Located throughout the outdoor areas of the SEMA Show, the displays are extensions to Show booths, connecting attendees with exhibitors and product creators. For 2023, the SEMA Show app features a scanning function that allows attendees to quickly capture product and exhibitor information from the feature vehicles displayed throughout the Show.

Wed, 11/01/2023 - 14:29

By SEMA News Editors

Exhibitors at the 2023 SEMA Show, now through November 3 in Las Vegas, are announcing new products and initiatives straight from the SEMA Show floor in the Las Vegas Convention Center. Following is a preview of some of the new announcements from SEMA Show Exhibitors.

Isky Racing Cams Builds Tribute Car for 75th Anniversary

Isky

Isky Racing Cams has built a tribute car to celebrate its 75th anniversary at the 2023 SEMA Show, an idea that spawned from the 2022 event during a conversation with Nolan Jamora, Isky chief operating officer, and Alex Taylor of HOT ROD Garage, and Dennis Taylor of Hot Rods by Dennis Taylor.

The "Tribute T" build serves as a tribute to Ed Iskenderian's iconic June '48 HOT ROD Magazine cover car, and it was unveiled to a large crowd at the Isky Racing Cams Booth #22619 in Central Hall.

SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish Finishes Day 1

 The SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish competition was narrowed down to the Top 40 finalists on Tuesday. Watch the behind-the-scenes action below, and be sure to catch the additional BOTB events on the SEMA Show schedule, culminating in the Winner Announcement on Friday, November 3, 3:30 p.m. PDT, Silver Drive.

 

EBC Brakes 40th Anniversary Unveil and British Take Over

EBC Brakes

Hopping over the pond and visiting the SEMA Show is a dream for most British car fanatics, but this year, to celebrate EBC Brakes' 40th Anniversary in style, the Brits are coming and they're coming in force. Petrolheadonism and Powernation TV have partnered with EBC Brakes to present two very different builds for an exclusive unveiling that took place Booth #24067, Central Hall, Tuesday, October 31. 

EBC Brakes presented an extremely rare, reimagined, useable classic in its '73 Toyota Corolla KE25 build. The retro classic build enjoys an uprated and tuned 1600 4AGE AE86 engine with Jenvy throttle bodies, laced in carbon fiber and some serious Alpha Performance Fabrications workmanship, which extends throughout the build. The Pennings UK bodywork and paint glistens with a deep Pearl Lamborghini Nero Granatas, which defines the inimitable classic lines. Purposefully de-badged to retain mystery, the hypercar-grade satin finish carbon fiber work by Elite Carbon Composites on their inaugural build project adds to the stealth appearance of the Corolla. EBC Brakes' calipers will be clearly visible through the throwback 6AD Forged three-spoke, two-piece wheels. Petrolheadonism bills this as an attractive, useable classic build but, at the same time, possibly the most expensive Classic Corolla build in the world, with a hefty $250,000 build sheet to create something extraordinary worthy of SEMA Central Hall. 

Ringbrothers Unveils' UNCAGED,' a '65 Mustang Convertible Restomod

Ringbrothers

Ringbrothers, the custom car builder and parts manufacturer, has debuted its latest creation at the 2023 SEMA Show, a custom-built '65 Ford Mustang convertible known as "UNCAGED." Crafted as a companion to its sibling "CAGED," which debuted in 2022, "UNCAGED" furthers the evolution of Ford's original pony car through a subtle reimagining of every line and proportion while maintaining the classic design elements that made it one of America's most iconic and coveted vehicles.

What began as an original '65 Ford Mustang convertible has been wholly reformed, with only the wheel center caps retained as the sole remaining factory component.

"UNCAGED lives up to its name, setting loose modern power and handling in a classic shape that looks at home on today's streets," said Ringbrothers Co-Owner Jim Ring. "Every aspect of this build has been thoroughly reimagined. It's lower and meaner, a mix of tradition and modern carried throughout the bodywork and into the cabin."

ORACLE Lighting Launches Vega Series Off-Road LED Pod Spotlights

ORACLE Lighting, the provider of automotive LED solutions, has leveraged the global audience of the SEMA Show to announce its new off-road Vega LED Light Pod Spotlights. Available in 20-watt (Vega Series 2) and 40-watt (Vega Series 4) versions, the compact and rugged pod spotlights deliver an unparalleled lighting experience (available in December).

Named for the brightest star in the northern constellation of Lyra, the new ORACLE Vega Series lights set a new benchmark for pod spotlight performance. The Series 2 features 2,000 raw lumens with a projection distance of 988 feet, while the Series 4 boasts 4,000 raw lumens and a projection distance of 1,049 feet. the company said. 

Intended for off-road use, Vega Series lights feature durable materials and construction, and carry an IP69K ingress protection rating to handle long-term use in tough conditions.

Wed, 11/01/2023 - 13:10

By Laura Pitts

SEMA Show organizers have announced the winners of the New Product Awards and the Manufacturer of the Year and Channel Partner of the Year to open the 2023 SEMA Show on Tuesday, October 31.

2023 SEMA Show Manufacturer of the Year

The 2023 SEMA Manufacturer of the Year is Dee Zee Inc.

The 2023 SEMA Manufacturer of the Year is Dee Zee Inc., while the 2023 SEMA Channel Partner of the Year is Summit Racing Equipment. These designations honor the companies that represent outstanding commitment to the multi-billion-dollar automotive specialty-equipment industry. 

2023 SEMA Show Channel Partner of the Year

The 2023 SEMA Channel Partner of the Year is Summit Racing Equipment.

The SEMA New Product Awards honors the excellence and creativity of products that are new to the automotive specialty-equipment market at the SEMA Show. There are 18 award categories, and each category has a winner and two runners-up.

Collision

Goliath Carts won a SEMA New Product Award in the Collision Repair & Refinish Product category for its Goliath Test Weld Stand.

The 2023 SEMA New Product Award winners and runners-up are as follows:

Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Product
  • Winner: Ultimate ADAS™, Hunter Engineering Company
  • Runner Up: National CDS 360 OEM Laptop, National Calibration and Diagnostic Solutions, Pro Mobile Scan, ADAS Targeting Solutions
  • Runner Up: AiDN, Diagnostic Network
Collision Repair & Refinish Product
  • Winner: Goliath Test Weld Stand, Goliath Carts
  • Runner Up: GUNI X Series, GUNIWHEEL LLC
  • Runner Up: KECO GPR+ System, KECO Body Repair Products
Electric Vehicle Product
  • Winner: '16-'21 Tesla Model S NOVA-Series LED Projector Headlights, AlphaRex
  • Runner Up: Venom EV Conversion Kit, Scorpion EV
  • Runner Up: Plug-N-Play Digital Sound Processor Solution for Tesla Model Vehicles, Metra Electronics
Engineered New Product
  • Winner: Holley Easy Level Fuel Sender, Holley
  • Runner Up: BoostGate50, Turbosmart USA
  • Runner Up: ORANGETOP™ HYPERCORE LITHIUM™ Marine/RV Deep Cycle Batteries, OPTIMA Batteries
Exterior Accessory Product
  • Winner: BAK Industries - X4ts Truck Bed Cover, RealTruck 
  • Runner Up: '18-'20 Ford F-150 Sequential Turn Signal Animated Red LED Bar Tail Light, Spec-D Tuning
  • Runner Up: RADIANCE+ POD RGBW, Rigid Industries
Interior Accessory Product
  • Winner: '78-'88 RGB LED Monte Carlo/El Camino Gauge Cluster w/IQ Signal Installation Module, Intellitronix
  • Runner Up: CURT Discovery™ NEXT Time-Delay Brake Controller, Lippert Curt Luverne Ranch Hand Aries UWS
  • Runner Up: Fanttik DynamicClean™ V10 Apex Pivoting Car Vacuum Cordless, Fanttik
Merchandising Display
  • Winner: NACHO POP Dealer Display, ARB 4x4 Accessories
  • Runner Up: HitchMount LED Pod display, Diode Dynamics
  • Runner Up: Green Filter Legendary Performance Now in Vibrant Colors, Green Filter
Mobile Electronics Product
  • Winner: DroneMobile XC Dash Cam with Remote Start Alarm Integration, Firstech, LLC
  • Runner Up: OPSIS by Stinger, AAMP Global
  • Runner Up: AI Dash Cam 4K + 1080p, Horizon Brands
Off-Road/4-Wheel-Drive Product
  • Winner: '22-'23 Toyota Tundra 6-in. Stage 9 Suspension System Billet With Subframe Kit, Icon Vehicle Dynamics
  • Runner Up: Advance Adapters Atlas Adapter for RAM, JEEP, Dodge 8HP Transmissions, Advance Adapters
  • Runner Up: Universal Recovery Mount, SeaSucker
Packaging Design
  • Winner: Formula DRIFT Premium Comfort Seat Cover, Horizon Brands
  • Runner Up: Katana Plus HVLP Spray Gun, Anest Iwata Americas
  • Runner Up: RetroSound® Europa Radio, Retro Manufacturing
Performance-Racing Product
  • Winner: Team Plus Wheel Turtle Pro, Team Plus
  • Runner Up: Dart Machinery Toyota 2JZ Engine Block, Race Winning Brands
  • Runner Up: Carbon TRc Intake Manifold, Performance Design
Performance-Street Product
  • Winner: Hyperformance Pistons, United Engine & Machine
  • Runner Up: Universal Hydroelectric Power Steering System, EPAS Performance
  • Runner Up: GM A/F/X Body Tall Hub Spindle, Ridetech
Powersports Product
  • Winner: NACHO Quatro Combo, ARB 4x4 Accessories
  • Runner Up: AMSOIL ATV/UTV Oil Change Kits, AMSOIL Inc.
  • Runner Up: 19-plus Honda Talon UTV6 Front Brake Kit, Wilwood Disc Brakes
Street Rod/Custom Car Product
  • Winner: 4, 6 and 8 Position Relay Panels, American Autowire
  • Runner Up: RnR Modular Drop Knuckle, Pyramid Optimized Design
  • Runner Up: Radiator/Water Pump Clamp on Compression AN Fitting (-16AN or -20AN), CVF Racing
Tire and Related Product
  • Winner: Fanttik X9 Pro Portable Tire Inflator with Accessories All-in-One, Fanttik
  • Runner Up: Cooper Cobra Instinct, Cooper Tire & Rubber Co.
  • Runner Up: Baja Boss XS, Mickey Thompson Tires and Wheels
Tools and Equipment Product
  • Winner: SoloSwap™ Big Block Chevy Mock Up Engine Swap Dummy Blocks, Speedway Motors Inc.
  • Runner Up: TRAC TireJack/Roller Accessory Plate, TRAC/Tire Rotation Assistance Cart-Tire Jack
  • Runner Up: WheelWise™ Wheel Fitment Tool, Tire Fit Size Measuring Mockup, 5-Lug Metric, Speedway Motors Inc.
Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product
  • Winner: Aeroleaf for Chevy 1500, Universal Air Suspension
  • Runner Up: Exhaust Manifold Kit Dodge/Ram 5.7L HEMI 1500 DS/2500 DJ/3500 D2 '09-'18 & Ram 1500 Classic DS '19-'22, BD Diesel
  • Runner Up: Shellz '23 Ford Super Duty Trim Black-Out Kit, ECOOLOGICAL
Wheel and Related Product
  • Winner: Defiant Wheels, DF06, 20x10, Dark Satin Charcoal, 4PLAY Wheels
  • Runner Up: TR29, Voxx Products
  • Runner Up: ICON ALLOYS, 17x8.5 ANZA, Icon Vehicle Dynamics

The companies were honored during the SEMA Kickoff Breakfast, which was hosted by emcee and longtime SEMA Show favorite Jarod DeAnda, and featured discussions from Ant Anstead--the English TV presenter, motor specialist, car builder, designer and artist best known for for presenting many automotive TV shows for more than a decade--and Tanner Foust, the American professional racing driver, stunt driver and TV host. 

"For me, I'm a new business owner, and to be able to see all of these guys that I grew up watching and their stories and all that kind of recognition, it helps light a fire [in] me to continue doing what I'm doing and what inspired me to begin the business in the first place," said Johnathon Mitchell of Mirror Image Detailing, Converse, Texas.

Wed, 11/01/2023 - 12:07

By Laura Pitts

As the automotive aftermarket gathers for the industry homecoming at the 2023 SEMA Show, now through November 3, in Las Vegas, OEMs Ford EVFord Performance Parts & Accessories, Lexus, Nissan and Toyota are busy connecting with a projected 160,000 buyers, influencers, dealers and more automotive professionals in the halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. 

Nothing beats experiencing these Show features in-person, but following is a preview of 

Ford EV to Showcase New and Custom Electric Vehicles

At the Ford EV Booth #24629 in Central Hall, see a combination of new and custom electric vehicles (EVs) that come together to form Ford's Custom EV Community. The off-road inspired '24 Mustang Mach-E Rally and sinister-looking, matte-black-wrapped '24 F-150 Lightning Platinum Black are on display together for the first time ever. Ford Performance's SuperVan 4.0 will test the limits on what is possible with full electrification. In addition, you can see up-close custom builds from Ford's incredible EV options, including a home integration system provided by Sunrun.

Ford Performance Parts & Accessories to Showcase Wheel Wall, Live Vehicle Wrap and More

Ford Performance

Ford Performance Parts & Accessories debuted its custom concept packages for Ranger, Bronco and Bronco Sport.

SEMA Show attendees can see an exciting lineup of Ford Performance Parts & Accessories vehicles with an impressive selection of parts that are available through the Ford Dealer Channel and accessories.ford.com in Booth #54039, West Hall. 

In addition to the excitement of the FP800S parts package unveiling exclusive to the 2023 SEMA Show, Ford Performance Parts also debuted its custom concept packages for Ranger, Bronco and Bronco Sport. 

The Ford Performance Parts & Accessories Booth also features a wheel wall with some of the OEM's most exciting options, as well as some of its newest crate engines. Attendees will also be able to explore its parts walls, which will give customers the opportunity to view some of our newest accessories. 

Customers can also view interactive live vehicle wraps throughout the week in Booth #50010, West Hall Atrium. 

Lexus to Take Attendees Through Its Off-Road Journey

Lexus

Lexus takes consumers through its off-road journey rooted in uncharted luxury. The brand highlights six vehicles, including each generation of the GX, a '22 LX 600 and the latest offerings in the Lexus Associated Accessory Product (AAP) program. Be sure to visit Booth #22250 in Central Hall to see these incredible vehicles up close and personal all SEMA Show week!

Nissan North America's Thrill Street to Showcase Off-Road Builds

Nissan

Nissan North America brought several new vehicle builds for its Nissan Thrill Street at the 2023 SEMA Show, Booth #52141, West Hall.

Nissan Thrill Street showcases the OEM's highest-performing NISMO products for the road alongside three distinctly different off-road builds, including one high-performance Frontier raced by Chris Forsberg.

Nissan 2

Toyota Motor North America's 'Track or Trail' Highlighted by All-New '24 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter 

Toyota

Toyota Motor North America's theme for the 2023 SEMA Show is "Track or Trail, Your Thrill Awaits," which showcases performance both on- and off-road in Booth #22200, Central Hall. 

Leveraging last year's announcement about Associated Accessory Products (AAP), Toyota shows more about where the company is headed with the integration of many of the top names in the aftermarket. In addition, Trailhunter goes from concept to real life with the introduction of the all-new '24 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter model

From GR sports car for the street, to GR performance for the track, and from the all-new Tacoma to the all-new Land Cruiser and everything in between, Toyota has something for every enthusiast this year. 

"Every year at the SEMA Show, we get a chance to tap into the imagination to produce some truly amazing vehicle concepts," said Mike Tripp, vice president of Toyota Vehicle Marketing and Communications. "This year, we'll go from track to trail, tapping into the excitement of our GR sports cars, the range of our TRD Pro trucks, and now our new Trailhunter grade with the launch of the all-new '24 Tacoma. And let's not forget the return of the legendary Land Cruiser to the United States. It's going to be a tour-de-force of styling and performance this year, and we can't wait to show the SEMA Show crowd what the Toyota team has cooked up!"

Wed, 11/01/2023 - 11:40

By Laura Pitts

SEMA Show attendees are invited to SEMA Education's first-ever "SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium," Room N258, 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. PDT, Wednesday, November 1, as part of a fully customizable educational program.

Women in Automotive

(From left to right) Two-time racing champion Julia Landauer; FOX Sports reporter Amanda Busick; and Carolyn Jackson of Barrett-Jackson.

The SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium is designed to provide a resource for women to network, mentor and participate in professional development programs geared toward helping them accelerate and advance in their automotive careers and businesses. This inaugural event will help women address common challenges faced by women in the industry, find solutions, gain new tools, and learn essential skills to drive business and career advancement.

Executives, general managers, middle managers, department heads, emerging leaders, diversity managers and related automotive professionals will benefit from several sessions, beginning with an inspiring opening keynote called "Drive: How to Gain and Maintain a Competitive Advantage" led by two-time racing champion and entrepreneur Julia Landauer, who has 21 years of competition under her belt, most recently starting the No. 44 Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Away from the track, Landauer is a sought-after motivational speaker, having participated in TEDx Talk and as a contestant on Season 26 of CBS' reality TV show "Survivor." She has purposefully built her brand to be where technology, community and racing intersect while advocating for STEM education and women's empowerment as a motivational speaker. Landauer will encourage the audience to take ownership of every aspect of their lives and cover topics such as authenticity, leadership, teamwork, fear management and embracing discomfort.

Following will be a power networking luncheon and fireside chat called "Communication Secrets, Secrets of Success and Maintaining a Success Mindset." This session will be led by FOX Sports Reporter Amanda Busick and feature Carolyn Jackson, vice president, brand strategy, Barrett-Jackson. This interactive session will see Busick interview Jackson for career insights and thoughts on the tenacity and determination of a committed and dynamic team, a leadership state of mind, empowerment and challenges, plus the achievements of her career as a top female executive in the automotive industry. Audience members will also have an exclusive (and invaluable) opportunity to ask questions, so come prepared!

 

Women

(From left to right) Melanie White of Hellwig Products; Jacki Lutz of Sensata Technologies; Deanna Singh of Uplifting Impact; and Shaundra Dineen, award-winning motivational speaker and podcaster.

Rapid-fire-style workshops are next on the schedule, with four 15-minute sessions designed to help attendees engage, discover and connect with subject-matter experts and thought leaders on small-business strategies and industry topics, including:

  • "Becoming A Woman-Owned Certified-Enterprise," led by Melanie White, CEO and owner of Hellwig Products.
  • "Self-Branding: The ACTION Behind Building Your Personal Brand," led by Jacki Lutz, senior manager marketing communications, corporate at Sensata Technologies.
  • "The Power of Mentorship, Sponsorship and Allyship as a Strategy for Success," led by Deanna Singh, managing partner at Uplifting Impact.
  • "Make the Jump! Four Steps to Becoming the Authority in Your Industry," led by Shaundra Dineen, award-winning motivational speaker and podcaster.

The program concludes with a moderated conversation with industry executives in a session designed to teach how action leaders are working toward gender equity and insights into the most significant challenges (and opportunities!) facing the industry today. 

The "Driving the Future of Automotive: C-Suite Insights" panel, co-hosted by SEMA Businesswomen's Network, will be led by industry executives explaining what they are doing personally to support women leaders through mentoring, sponsorship and modeling effective allyship, followed by a Q&A session. Moderated by Cheryl Thompson, the president and founder of Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion & Advancement (CADIA), the one-hour session also features panelists Kim Less, vice president, aftermarket at Nissan North America; Subi Ghosh, executive vice president, Strategic Partnerships & Marketing at Stream Companies and partnerships chair at Women of Color Auto Network; Jayme Blasiman, founder of Femanic Garage and founder and co-owner of Women's Motor Fest; Matilda Johnson, chief experience officer at City Classic Cars; and Axel Cooley, president of Metallon.  

The SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium is free for all 2023 SEMA Show attendees. Online registration for the SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium is available hereRegistration for individual sessions is also available at the links below. 

2023 SEMA Show Women in Automotive Symposium Schedule

Wednesday, November 1

Room N258

  • 11:00 a.m.-11:45 a.m PDT/Opening Keynote "Drive: How to Gain and Maintain a Competitive Advantage," featuring two-time race champion and entrepreneur Julia Landauer.
  • 11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. PDT/Power Networking Luncheon and Fireside Chat hosted by FOX Sports Reporter Amanda Busick and featuring Carolyn Jackson, vice president brand strategy, Barrett-Jackson.
  • 1:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m. PDT/Micro-Learning Lab (15-minute, rapid-fire-style workshops) featuring Melanie White, CEO and owner of Hellwig Products; Jacki Lutz, senior manager marketing communications, corporate at Sensata Technologies; Deanna Singh, managing partner at Uplifting Impact; and Shaundra Dineen, award-winning motivational speaker and podcaster.
  • 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. PDT/"Driving the Future of Automotive: C-Suite Insights" panel, co-hosted by SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBA) and moderated by Cheryl Thompson, president and founder of Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion & Advancement.
Wed, 11/01/2023 - 11:04

By SEMA News Editors

Attendees of the 2023 SEMA Show, now through November 3 in Las Vegas, are gathering at the world's largest display of new automotive aftermarket products--the SEMA Show New Product Showcase. The collection is now in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center and is accessible exclusively to SEMA Showgoers, buyers and media.

NPS

Showgoers can use their mobile phones to scan QR codes of their favorite products for specs, manufacturer information and booth location to find a company representative to answer your questions right on the Show floor. After the Show, you can still preview and "favorite" products in the SEMA Show app (navigate to the "New Product" tab from the home page), for an all-year-round product resource. Visit the New Product Showcase and browse innovation across 18 categories covering:

  • Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) products.
  • Collision repair and refinish products.
  • Electric vehicle (EV) products.
  • Engineered new products.
  • Exterior accessory products.
  • Featured products.
  • Interior accessory products.
  • Merchandising display.
  • Mobile electronics products.
  • Off-road/4-wheel-drive products.
  • Packaging design.
  • Performance-racing products.
  • Performance-street products.
  • Powersports products.
  • Street rod/custom car products.
  • Tire and related products.
  • Tools and equipment products.
  • Van/pickup/sport-utility products.
  • Wheel and related products.

"Having access to thousands of products in one location makes trend-spotting easy for buyers and media. Plus, our mobile app allows attendees to 'favorite' products so they can maximize their time at the Show and use the app as a year-round resource. It is like putting the future in your pocket," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Show trade show director.

New products were eligible for the New Product Awards, which were celebrated during the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast on Tuesday, October 31. See the complete details, including a list of 2023 SEMA Show New Product Awards winners, here.

Wed, 11/01/2023 - 10:33

By SEMA News Editors

Limited tickets remain for SEMA Fest, the inaugural, two-day outdoorSEMA Fest festival to be held Friday, November 3-Saturday, November 4, 12:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m. at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds in Las Vegas, that brings together automotive enthusiasts, the biggest names in music and the hottest automotive brands in a large-scale festival format. The prized SEMA Ignited event has evolved into a more exciting two-day event now known as SEMA Fest, which will give consumers a chance to participate in an automotive and music experience like none other!

Two-day and single-day tickets are available to the public, as well as VIP packages and a special SEMA Show Friday Experience option through Tixr here.

Top performing musical acts are just one attraction at SEMA Fest, as the motorsports activities will also be major headliners of the festival over the course of two days. Featured attractions include:

  • World-class drifting demos by Formula DRIFT teams.
  • Extreme motorsports action by Hoonigan.
  • Freestyle motocross and BMX Big Air show from Nitro Circus.
  • Ride With Us: learn-to-ride motorcycle experience.
  • Consumer marketplace with vendors, craft food and more.
  • E-Gaming experience and competition by NACL.
  • Two festival stages featuring 22 diverse acts over two days showcasing a wide variety of musical genres.

The daily SEMA Fest musical lineup:

Friday, November 3

• Incubus
• Wiz Khalifa
• Third Eye Blind
• Bush
• Ludacris
• Chase Matthew
• Rome & Duddy
• Ayron Jones
• Bones UK
• Starcrawler
• Paper Idol

Saturday, November 4

• Imagine Dragons
• AJR
• Walk The Moon
• The Struts
• Badflower
• Meg Meyers
• Dead Sara
• renforshort
• Brooke Alex
• Hot Crazy
• Good Boy Daisy
• The Foxies

SEMA Fest is open to the public. Purchase your SEMA Fest tickets through Tixr here.