Wed, 11/01/2023 - 10:22

By Laura Pitts

As the world evolves and travel preferences shift, the exhilarating realmOverland of overlanding is captivating hearts and minds, not just in remote corners of the world but increasingly across the United States. As a result, the much-anticipated SEMA Overland Experience returns to the 2023 SEMA Show, now through November 3 in Las Vegas, promising attendees and media a thrilling journey into the expanding universe of overlanding, complete with fresh opportunities and insights. 

Before you make your way to the SEMA Overland Experience, Diamond Lot adjacent to the West Hall, all Show Week long, exhibitors have agreed to give SEMA News readers a sneak peek at their displays (more details below).

Preview the Innovative Builds Set for the 2023 Overland Experience

Several exhibitors are excited to showcase their latest overlanding innovations to the tens of thousands of enthusiasts, buyers, influencers, media members and attendees in Las Vegas. Below is a sneak peek at the project vehicles for this year, but be sure to make plans to see these project vehicles up close and in person in the outdoor Overland Experience at the SEMA Show, October 31-November 3

KW Automotive
KW Automotive

KW Automotive will display a project vehicle on a Mercedes Sprinter 170 WB, 3500 XD Super Single 4x2 converted to 4x4 by Igelhaut chassis. Main chassis features include: 

  • 4x4 by Igelhaut with three mechanical lockers 
  • Long-range tank 
  • Raised air intake 
  • Skid plates for engine 
  • Gearbox and differentials 
  • Off-road tires and wheelwell extensions 
  • Upgraded genuine leather Scheelmann seats  
  • CAtuned front bumper 

In addition, the living habitat by Boxmanufaktur features: 

  • FRP composite sandwich panel box with storage cab over 
  • KCT windows and roof skylight 
  • Panorama hatch 
  • Elwell hydronic heating system with floor heating and convectors 
  • 24V Victron electric system with Lithium battery pack 
  • Inverter/charger, solar panels 
  • Lightweight furniture with interior walls made of FRP sandwich panels 
  • Vitrifrigo fridge 
  • Lumicoin LED light fixtures 
  • 2Tec2 and teak wood flooring 
  • Aluminum storage compartments 
LiquidSpring Smart Suspension 
Liquid

LiquidSpring Smart Suspension has created a custom-tailored suspension system for two trailblazers in the overland industry. After years of R&D, Supertramp Campers has teamed up with Elevation Off Grid to create one of the most badass turnkey expedition vehicles available: The Megatron. 

The Megatron is a turnkey overland vehicle with a seamlessly designed carbon-fiber reinforced shell, 800 watts of solar, 360-degree views through double-pane glass windows, a wet bath, a fully equipped kitchen and touchscreen management of all your systems. 

"Our active smart suspension enables higher CG vehicles to possess driving dynamics similar to a sedan while maintaining full factory tow and GVW ratings. This is accomplished through computer-controlled valving, compressible liquid and data from steering angle, brake input, roll, pitch and yaw," said a company release. 

ORACLE Lighting
ORACLE

ORACLE's SEMA Overland Experience project vehicle is a '98 Stewart & Stevenson M1079 Light Medium Tactical Vehicle (LMTV). An EMP-Proof 4x4 powered by a Caterpillar 6.6L turbo diesel will soon be converted to a Global Expedition Vehicle (featuring the latest adventure lighting). 

"Most people think of Humvees or the big 5-ton 6x6s when it comes to military vehicles," said ORACLE Lighting Founder Justin Hartenstien. "The LMTV flies under the radar a bit, but it is definitely a vehicle worth looking at for an overland build. Its workhorse nature makes it rugged, and we can build it exactly how we want."

Winnebago 
Winnebago

Ruggedly built yet light enough to be towed by many off-road SUVs, Winnebago's HIKE 100 FLX is designed for extended off-grid stays and provides a comfortable, well-designed base camp for any adventure. The factory-designed, factory-installed and factory-backed FLX package is an integrated system of four technologies that allow you to camp in comfort for up to five days without electrical and water hook-ups. Updated exterior styling--built to accommodate active outdoor lifestyles with flexible storage systems--takes the HIKE 100 FLX well beyond the expectations of every day.

LinksWell
Links

Stay tuned for more details on LinksWell's rugged overland build set for this year's SEMA Overland Experience. 

Tue, 10/31/2023 - 17:51

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:

Tue, 10/31/2023 - 13:55

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Central

Location: Grand Lobby, Central Hall

SEMA Central

Each year, the hub of the Show is SEMA Central, which showcases interviews, content and connections from across the automotive aftermarket. This year, SEMA Central will expand to offer Show participants a more immersive industry experience than ever before. Visit this exclusive Show area located in the Grand Lobby to see top-tier vehicle builds and center-stage interviews with iconic personalities (an up-to-date schedule is below).

Special Event Preview: SEMA Show Media Panel

Wednesday, November 1

12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. PDT 

Media Panel

Join moderator Edward Loh as he interviews industry greats Alistair Weaver, Joel Feder and Jerry Hirsch during the SEMA Show Media Panel, Wednesday, November 1.

Manufacturers, business professionals, media, buyers and related automotive professionals are invited to hear the latest automotive trends straight from the voices of the industry. Hear firsthand about current and future technologies and how you can integrate them to stay ahead of the game. Visit SEMA Central for the SEMA Show Media Panel moderated by Edward Loh, head of editorial for MotorTrend Group and featuring:

  • Alistair Weaver, editor-in-chief, Edmunds
  • Joel Feder, senior producer, Internet Brands Automotive Group
  • Jerry Hirsch, senior editor, technology & innovation, Automotive News

2023 SEMA Central Schedule

Tuesday, October 31  
10:00 a.m. PDT Jay Leno, "Jay Leno's Garage"
10:30 a.m. PDT Alex Taylor, "HOT ROD Garage"
11:50 a.m. PDT Dave Kindig and Kevin "KevDogg" Schiele, "Bitchin' Rides"
2:00 p.m. PDT Antron Brown, three-time NHRA Top Fuel champion
2:30 p.m. PDT Rebeca Olivareta, ROCO 4x4
3:00 p.m. PDT John "Nads" Naderi and Amir Bentatou, "Super Street Garage"
3:30 p.m. PDT Tommy Pike, Tommy Pike Custom
4:00 p.m. PDT Javier "Shorty" Ponce, "Shorty's Dream Shop"

 

Wednesday, November 1  
9:30 a.m. PDT Carolyn Jackson, Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
10:00 a.m. PDT Julia Landauer, race champion and entrepreneur
10:30 a.m. PDT Nick Cannon, "Nick Cannon's Big Drive" and RJ de Vera, SEMA
11:00 a.m. PDT Joel Ayres, Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation
12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. PDT SEMA Show Media Panel (more details above)
2:00 p.m. PDT Tom Gattuso, SEMA
3:00 p.m. PDT Mitch Williams, RIGID Industries

 

Thursday, November 2  
9:30 a.m. PDT Joan Ames and Jeff Adams, on behalf of 2023 SEMA Hall of Famer, Steve Ames
10:30 a.m. PDT Mike Spagnola, SEMA
11:00 a.m. PDT Kyle Fickler, ProCharger and SEMA Board Chairman
2:00 p.m. PDT Willy T. Ribbs, racer and Formula 1 ambassador
2:30 p.m. PDT Tim Tebow, two-time national football champion, Heisman Trophy winner and entrepreneur 
4:00 p.m. PDT SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle Award

 

 

Friday, November 2  
11:00 a.m. PDT Ben Kaminsky, SEMA Garage Detroit

 

Tue, 10/31/2023 - 13:53

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, is a true five-senses experience, showcasing thousands of the latest automotive products and technology alongside several features delivered by some of the industry's biggest names. 

Of course, there will be 2,200-plus exhibitor booths teeming with new products (view the up-to-date floorplan), but the SEMA Show's projected 160,000 attendees can also prepare for the familiar tire-smoke, adrenaline and excitement as world-class activations return not only to the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) halls but also to dedicated areas outside the LVCC.

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 has announced it is again joining the SEMA Show with the Shell Performance Unbound experience. The company invites SEMA Show participants to step into two interactive locations, the Shell V-Power NiTRO+ Booth #81059 and Booth #81125, to get up close and personal with the likes of Scott McLaughlin and many others. The Show feature will also allow attendees to engage with Shell's scientists about its new and improved premium gasoline. Plus, there will be can't-miss opportunities to win fantastic prizes and giveaways throughout the week. Best of all, when SEMA Show attendees complete a Passport gamecard, available only at the Shell V-Power NiTRO+ booth, they can enter to win a drifting experience with one of Shell's pro drift drivers. Remember to tag Shell on social media and be sure to follow the action using the hashtag #ShellVPower. SEMA is excited that Shell is again supporting the annual SEMA Show with this enhanced interactive space," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "The company's SEMA Show programs are traditionally popular with our attendees, and their enhanced presence this year is sure to add even more value to our event."

Plus, take the chance to win fantastic prizes and giveaways throughout the week. Best of all, when you complete a passport game card, available only at the Shell V-Power NiTRO+ booth, you can enter for a chance to win a drifting experience with one of Shell's pro drift drivers.

OPTIMA Village

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

OPTIMA

OPTIMA Batteries is slated to once again bring the action to Las Vegas! For context, in 2008, OPTIMA Batteries created the Ultimate Street Car Invitational Challenge, which pitted the world's highest-performance street cars and trucks against each other in various contests. In 2021, building on the event's momentum, competitors, for the first time, completed a timed segment called the Peak Performance Challenge, which tested a vehicle's ability to accelerate and brake at the SEMA Show. Competitors at the SEMA Show also had their vehicles evaluated by a set of judges in the Lingenfelter Design & Engineering Challenge. At the 2022 SEMA Show, OPTIMA expanded its footprint to host additional parts of the Ultimate Street Car Invitational in the Bronze Lot during Show hours. Adding to the tire smoke in 2023 will be celebrity driver appearances and demonstrations, as well as amazing project vehicles from OPTIMA. The OPTIMA Village is shaping up to be one of the most action-packed parts of the SEMA Show--you don't want to miss it!

Ride With Us

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

Ride With Us

Last year, the SEMA Show introduced a ground-shaking collaboration with the Motorcycle Industry Council and its marquee market expansion program, Ride With Us. The popular activation will return to Las Vegas, offering a free introductory motorcycle riding experience for anyone who's thought about or wanted to try riding a motorcycle but has yet to have the opportunity to do so. The immersive experience provides everything you need to experience the thrill of two wheels. With a certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation Coach, you'll go over the basic operation of a motorcycle. The team will provide everything you need: gear, bike, coaches and fun! Ride With Us has traveled across the country, giving first-ride experiences to hundreds of participants aged 16 and up. Motorcycle Safety Foundation-certified coaches help riders get geared up and then guide them on a motorcycle at their own pace. Cinnamon Kernes, who leads the Motorcycle Industry Council's Ride With Us program, shared, "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."

SEMA Overland Experience

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

Overland

The beloved SEMA Overland Experience moves to an outside location this year to showcase the many products and solutions in the environment they were designed for. With many similarities and connections to off-roading and adventure travel, overlanding has strong roots in Australia and South Africa, with its popularity in the United States exploding over the past decade. Buyers at the 2023 SEMA Show will now be able to view products and vehicles tailored explicitly for overlanding in the expanded SEMA Overland Experience area. The specialized exhibit will include dozens of customized vehicles with fully popped-out tents, survival accessories and portable kitchen systems, all displayed among various exhibitors supporting the growing overlanding market. 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 act as 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.


SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as successful and worthwhile as possible for all. Registration is still available online for $120 through the event date. Badge pick-up will be available on-site at the Las Vegas Convention Center in the West Hall for those who register online. Full-service registration (and badge pick-up) will be open in South Hall for those who still need to register. Get started on your road to the 2023 SEMA Show by registering today at SEMAShow.com/register! 

Get the mobile app and put the SEMA Show in your pocket. It's available as a free download from your mobile device's native app store and online at SEMAShow.com/app. Or visit SEMAShow.com for the latest information and Show news.

Tue, 10/31/2023 - 13:34

By SEMA News Editors

The 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, is gearing up to showcase thousands of the newest automotive performance products from more than 2,200 exhibitors in the Las Vegas Convention Center. Before you hit the Show floor, plan to start your SEMA Show experience with the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, Tuesday, October 31, at the Paradise Event Center in the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.

Doors open at 7:00 a.m., breakfast is served at 7:15 a.m. and the program begins at 7:30 a.m. PDT. Tickets are available here.

Jason DeAnda

The 2023 SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast will be hosted by SEMA Show and industry favorite, Jarod DeAnda.

Network with a global automotive community before sitting down with a plated breakfast, entertainment and special presentations. This year's event will be hosted by emcee and longtime SEMA Show favorite Jarod DeAnda, who is known for his work with Formula Drift, Ford, Harley-Davidson, Hot Wheels, Snap-On, Nitrocross and more. 

As part of the Kickoff Breakfast, SEMA will welcome onstage 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. Foust is known for his diverse racing portfolio across rally, drift, ice racing, time attack, rallycross and hill climbing. He even secured the win in the Exhibition Class in the 2023 Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, brought to you by "Gran Turismo."

At the 2023 Kickoff Breakfast, the pair will recount how they built and engineered Foust's Pikes Peak-winning car in only 100 days--a process that mirrors what thousands of SEMA members go through to create new innovations and builds for market and the SEMA Show. 

Pikes Peak

Join the 2023 SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast to hear first-hand accounts of how Ant Anstead and Tanner Foust built this Pikes Peak-winning car in only 100 days.

"We are so excited to share the passion, process and results that went into building the car that won Pikes Peak, one of the most dangerous races in the world. Under scrutiny, intense deadlines, the risk of failure and many twists and turns, we were able to innovate and overcome, much like SEMA members do to bring a new product to market," said Anstead to SEMA News.

The celebration will continue with the official announcement of the New Product Showcase Awards winners. A total of 18 winners from as many different categories (listed below) will be recognized, alongside a special presentation of the Manufacturer of the Year, the Channel Partner of the Year (finalists below) and an innovation and perseverance award.

New Product Showcase Awards winners will also be honored at the annual SEMA Industry Awards Banquet on Thursday, November 2. (Banquet tickets are available online). New Product Showcase Awards runner-ups will be celebrated in the Media Center on Tuesday, October 31, 3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. PDT.

Secure a seat at the industry's homecoming event, the 2023 SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast. Tickets are available here

Be sure to check SEMA News for the list of winners and runners-up following the event. 

2023 SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast

Paradise Event Center in the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino
Tuesday, October 31

Doors open: 7:00 a.m. PDT
Breakfast service begins: 7:15 a.m. PDT
Program begins: 7:30 a.m. PDT

2023 SEMA Show Manufacturer of the Year Finalists

  • Dee Zee Inc.
  • QA1
  • Turbosmart

2023 SEMA Show Channel Partner of the Year Finalists

  • Meyer Distributing
  • Motor State Distributing
  • Summit Racing Equipment

2023 SEMA Show New Product Showcase Awards Categories

  • Exterior Accessory Product 
  • Interior Accessory Product 
  • Engineered New Product* 
  • Performance-Street Product** 
  • Performance-Racing Product 
  • Off-Road/4-Wheel-Drive Product 
  • Street Rod/Custom Car Product 
  • Tools and Equipment Product 
  • Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product 
  • Packaging Design 
  • Merchandising Display 
  • Mobile Electronics Product 
  • Powersports Product 
  • Tire and Related Product 
  • Wheel and Related Product 
  • Collision Repair & Refinish 
  • Electric Vehicle Product 
  • Advanced Driver Assistance System Product (ADAS) 

*Engineered New Product: Products in this category demonstrate innovative engineering development and advanced state-of-the-art technology in their field. 

**Performance-Street Product: products in this category must make provisions for all required emissions controls. Other emissions-related products should be entered in the Performance-Racing category.

Tue, 10/31/2023 - 12:53

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Show, October 31-November 3, offers an attendee experience like no other trade show on the planet. It's the best place to see thousands of the newest automotive performance products from new and iconic exhibitors, discover the latest product and vehicle trends and develop essential skills with complimentary education sessions--all of which are led by top industry professionals. 

"SEMA is the largest single location gathering of shop owners engaged in the automotive community, bringing the right buyers and sellers together. The continued evolution and growth of the show is a major reason to return each year, but more than anything else, it's the brilliance of so many talented individuals that can be found throughout the halls of SEMA that keeps me coming back," said Brett Kinsfather of ShopMonkey.

When you're on the SEMA Show floor, be sure to check out these exclusive features, designed specifically with attendees in mind. 

SEMA Show New Product Showcase

North Hall

NPS

The SEMA Show New Product Showcase, now in the North Hall for maximum foot traffic and visibility, features the latest innovations and technology from SEMA Show exhibitors. Accessible exclusively to SEMA Showgoers, the Showcase is the top buyer and media destination and serves as a one-stop shop to quickly discover thousands of the hottest products in the industry. Each new product has a dedicated QR code that attendees can scan to learn more about the part and where the exhibitor is located on the Show floor. You don't want to miss these newest innovations!

The FutureTech Studio

Booth #24401, Central Hall

FutureTech Studio

The SEMA FutureTech Studio, a new exhibit at the 2023 SEMA Show, will give attendees at the world's leading automotive trade show an opportunity to learn about what the future of vehicle propulsion may look like. Located in Central Hall, the SEMA FutureTech Studio will be part of the new EV & Future Propulsion section that evolved from the popular SEMA Electrified exhibit at recent SEMA Shows.

Through various spotlights and showcases, the new immersive Show environment will feature parts and equipment that cater to the new technology, as well as vehicles that will highlight how these are employed. The exhibit will also include a SEMA Education stage, named FutureTech LIVE, where industry leaders will discuss different propulsion technology, including EV, hybrid, hydrogen, alternative fuels and other advancements in technology.

SEMA Garage: ADAS, Emissions, Product Development

Booth #36007, Upper South Hall

SEMA Garage

The vast capabilities of the SEMA Garage ADAS Technology Center in Detroit, Michigan, will be showcased to attendees. The exclusive 6,600-sq.-ft. area will allow the SEMA Garage to host real-time testing demonstrations and live calibrations. Attendees can learn from subject-matter experts, exchange knowledge and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) best practices and gain hands-on experience with ADAS tools and equipment.

The new exhibit aims to assist in member education, improve industry awareness of ADAS systems and their impact on the aftermarket and provide marketing and networking opportunities between buyers and sellers. The dedicated space will host a variety of ADAS-related products for examination and review, and live recalibration demonstrations throughout the week will guide attendees through the step-by-step process of integrating ADAS protocols into the workplace.

SEMA Collision Repair Stage

Booth #32145, Upper South Hall

Collision

Visit the SEMA Show Collision Repair Stage to see free hands-on welding demos and presentations from industry leaders, including I-CAR, Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) and OEM presentations. Top experts will be on hand to answer attendee's questions and lead interactive demonstrations on the collision repair industry.

Celebrity Appearances

Celebrity

Find out where and when your favorite industry VIPs and celebrities are appearing at the SEMA Show. Make sure you use this chance to meet with stars in the automotive industry and get that autograph or picture. For the complete schedule, visit semashow.com/celebrity-appearances.

Tue, 10/31/2023 - 10:05

  By SEMA News Editors
SEMA Show organizers are excited to announce the all-new "MotorTrend Celebrity Showcase," set for Tuesday, October 31, from 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. PDT in Room W326, West Hall.   

Super Street Garage

SEMA and MotorTrend have partnered to bring you a truly one-of-a-kind experience, open for registration here. Attendees will be treated to live interviews, moderated by auto specialist and television host Ant Anstead, and featuring some of the biggest names from MotorTrend:   

  • Ant Anstead (Moderator): As the co-founder and chief engineer of Radford, he is responsible for overseeing the building process of every single bespoke, handmade vehicle to meet exact customer specifications. 
  • Amir Bentatou ("Super Street Garage"): Owner and designer at RS Future, Amir shares his deep knowledge of all things speed and style with "Super Street Garage." 
  • John "Nads" Naderi ("Super Street Garage"): Former editor-in-chief of Super Street Magazine, Nads has been at the forefront of the tuner scene since its inception.  
Hot Rod Garage
  • Lucky Costa ("HOT ROD Garage"): With a breadth of experience from domestics to Euros to Datsuns, Lucky is out to prove that anything can be a hot rod if you do it right.  
  • Alex Taylor ("HOT ROD Garage") - Alex has been building and racing for as long as she's been able to grip a wrench. As the newest host of "HOT ROD Garage," her thirst for horsepower continues to propel the show forward.  
Bitchin Rides
  • Dave Kindig ("Bitchin' Rides"): Host of "Bitchin' Rides," Kindig and crew turn out some of the most creative, one-of-a-kind vehicles on the planet.  
  • Kevin "KevDogg" Schiele ("Bitchin' Rides"): Working for Kindig-It Design, where he runs the 27,000-sq. ft. shop, Schiele has an unparalleled passion for the auto industry, and spends long hours in the shop making sure every build is just right.  

This diverse crew of automotive experts and media personalities will share their experiences in the world of hot rods, restorations and restyling markets, plus they will reveal what motivates them and more.   

Get to know this group, while learning, laughing and taking in advice from the perspectives of these household names in the industry.   

This showcase is free and open to all SEMA Show attendees.

MotorTrend Celebrity Showcase at the SEMA Show

  • Tuesday, October 31
  • 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. PT
  • Location: West Hall (W326) 

REGISTER HERE!

Tue, 10/31/2023 - 09:16

By Ashley Reyes and Laura Pitts   

As part of the SEMA initiative for a robust career- and professional-development program year-round, the education program at the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, features all-new sessions and tracks, like the new "Digital Marketing Bootcamp." This dynamic session took place Monday afternoon on October 30 before the Show's official opening Tuesday morning to provide broader access to education on what is usually considered an exhibitor "setup day."

DMBC 1

Erin King of Strikepoint Media during the Digital Marketing Bootcamp at the 2023 SEMA Show.

Digital Marketing Bootcamp attendees learned how to stay ahead of the competition in the ever-changing digital landscape and gain invaluable knowledge with expert instruction by leaders from Kahn Media, Microsoft, Rhino Reviews, Strikepoint Media, (un)Common Logic and Walser Automotive Group.

Among topics discussed was the ongoing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in digital marketing, including how auto-generated blog posts and marketing copy can maximize your business' impact online, something buyer Patrick Mooney of Veteran Detail, American Fork, Utah, told SEMA News he plans to implement into his marketing plan. 

"[The most effective takeaway] was the future, really the use of AI and how it's going to impact all forms of marketing. [AI] is still in its infancy, but it's very exciting. Those guys have a really good insight into it," Mooney said of the Digital Marketing Bootcamp presenters. "I'm at the age of 60, and new technology has to be embraced no matter what age you are. You just have to embrace it."

DMBC 2

Erin King was among a lineup of experts who covered best practices in digital marketing to a large group of attendees on Monday, October 30. 

The lineup of experts also covered best practices of digital advertising, including how not to lose money on an advertising investment, which resonated with attendee Rocky Nash, executive producer of Savvy Streaming based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

"A big takeaway was from Darrell Booker, corporate affairs specialist, [Microsoft]," said Nash, emphasizing how Booker stressed how important it is to start with piece-by-piece campaigns and "invest a little at a time into ad spend. The last thing you want to do is spend $30,000 on a campaign to find out they don't know your audience. Invest little by little until you see the success of the campaign before you put more dollars into it." 

The Digital Marketing Bootcamp program featured the following speakers and panelists:

  • Erin King of Strikepoint Media.
  • Jim McKinley of (un)Common Logic. 
  • Darrell Booker of Microsoft.
  • Dan Kahn of Kahn Media.
  • Ashley Cavazos of DeMontrond Auto Group.
  • Chelsea Craig of Rhino Reviews.

Those who attended and completed the Digital Marketing Bootcamp sessions also earn a coveted SEMA Certificate of Completion if they completed at least two additional digital marketing sessions. 

The 2023 SEMA Show Education Program encompasses nearly 100 sessions led by subject matter experts, an EV certification program, Women in Automotive Symposium, and globally recognized speakers. Featured speakers include Tim Tebow, Willy T. Ribbs and Margaret Hoover. Find the complete schedule and register for events in the SEMA Show app and on the SEMA Show planner.

This year's SEMA Show is shaping up to be the best one yet. It's not too late to register for the premier automotive industry homecoming, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas. If you are a professional in the automotive aftermarket, you don't want to miss this opportunity to network, learn, and grow your business. Registration is still available online for $120 through Tuesday. Badge pick-up will be available on-site at the Las Vegas Convention Center in the West Hall for those who register online. Full-service registration (and badge pick-up) will be open in South Hall for those who still need to register. Register now at SEMAShow.com/register!  

After you've registered, create a customized schedule, view the floorplan and exhibitor list, browse education sessions, keynote addresses and other Show-related events with the SEMA app at SEMAShow.com/app

Tue, 10/31/2023 - 09:08

By SEMA News Editors

As SEMA Show organizers helped transform the Las Vegas Convention Center for the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3, exhibitors and early arrivals were treated to a special event, the SEMA Show Exhibitor Appreciation Afterparty on Monday, October 30. As part of the celebration, SEMA honored several automakers for the SEMA Awards Presentation, which took place outside the Central Hall entrance on Silver Drive. 

SEMA Awards

(Left to right) Paul Hawson, Nissan; Michael Tripp, Toyota; Sheldon Brown, Toyota; Kyle Fickler, SEMA Board of Directors Chairman; Mike Spagnola, SEMA President and CEO; Nick Terzes, Ford; Natalie Simon, Ford; Steve Gilmore, Ford; Melanie White, SEMA Board of Directors Chair-Elect.

"This year's SEMA Show Exhibitor Appreciation Party was a memorable night for everyone who attended. It was a great way to show gratitude to the exhibitors who make the SEMA Show possible, and to showcase the amazing vehicles that inspire the aftermarket industry," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director.

The 2023 SEMA Award winners are as follows:

  • SEMA Car of the Year: Ford Mustang
  • SEMA Fullsize Truck of the Year: Ford F-Series
  • SEMA Midsize Truck of the Year: Toyota Tacoma
  • SEMA 4x4-SUV of the Year: Ford Bronco
  • SEMA Sport Compact of the Year: Nissan Z
  • SEMA Electric Vehicle of the Year: Ford Lightning

SEMA Award winners are determined and voted on by SEMA Show exhibiting manufacturers to recognize vehicles that manufacturers are investing in and developing products for. The program heightens awareness for aftermarket products and exemplifies the industry's partnership between automakers and aftermarket manufacturers that develop products to improve vehicle performance, safety and convenience as well as appearance and comfort.

This year's SEMA Show is shaping up to be the best one yet. It's not too late to register for the premier automotive industry homecoming, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas. If you are a professional in the automotive aftermarket, you don't want to miss this opportunity to network, learn and grow your business. Registration is still available online for $120 through Tuesday. Badge pick-up will be available on-site at the Las Vegas Convention Center in the West Hall for those who register online. Full-service registration (and badge pick-up) will be open in South Hall for those who still need to register. Register now at SEMAShow.com/register!   

After you've registered, create a customized schedule, view the floorplan and exhibitor list, browse education sessions, keynote addresses and other Show-related events with the SEMA app at SEMAShow.com/app

Tue, 10/31/2023 - 08:56

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors were celebrated during the SEMA Show Exhibitor Appreciation Afterparty on Monday, October 30 (get the complete details here), ahead of the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas.

As part of the pre-Show celebrations, 2023 SEMA Week also kicked off with an event of excellence, showcasing some of the Show's most high-profile vehicles created by renowned builders and celebrities from throughout the world. The red-carpet event offered media and attendees a glimpse at the aftermarket's future and what is coming next in the most advanced builds and designs.

The SEMA Vehicle Reveal saw 12 vehicles unveiled for the first time to the public. These cars represent the best of innovation, design, performance and technology in the aftermarket, and the crowd was amazed by the variety and quality of the vehicles, which ranged from innovative builds to electric cars.

The vehicles in the 2023 SEMA Show Monday Vehicle Reveal are as follows (company or name/car):

  • Chip Foose, Foose Dune Buggy
  • Shell, Ford Mustang S650 RTR Spec 2
  • Shell, Ford Mustang S650 RTR Comp
  • Dustin Williams, Subaru WRX Sedan
  • Holley, '69 Pontiac GTO (custom build)
  • Nissan, Nissan Safari Z Rally Tribute
  • OPTIMA Batteries, '22 Rivian R1S
  • Battle of the Builders Judge, Land Cruiser FJ40
  • Bisimoto Engineering, Electric Volkswagen bus
  • TJ Hunt, Nissan R34 Skyline GTR
  • Hoonigan, GC Subaru (homage to Ken Block)