By SEMA News Editors

Nissan recently unveiled its one-off project vehicle, "Nissan Project Trailgater," which combines a high-tech outdoors tailgating experience with the off-road capability of the '25 Nissan Frontier.

Nissan North America has unveiled a one-off project vehicle that will be debuted publicly at the 2024 SEMA Show, Nov. 5-8 in Las Vegas, alongside four other Nissan project vehicles to be announced at a later date.

The vehicle, aptly named the "Nissan Project Trailgater," combines a high-tech, outdoors tailgating experience with the off-road capability of the refreshed '25 Frontier.

Project Trailgater was built in collaboration with PowerNation TV's "Music City Trucks" program, and the build process will be documented in three episodes of the show released this month.

The Project Trailgater concept is equipped with twin 43-in. TVs and a powerful soundbar mounted to a NISMO Off Road overlanding rack in the bed. Accompanied by a folding solar panel, a custom lithium battery pack and associated electronics, plus a Starlink connection, the setup is designed to stream games almost anywhere a satellite or mobile hotspot signal is available.

Project Trailgater caters with an integrated Dometic cooler and refrigerator, a fold-out kitchen station and sink, plus a built-in propane grill that folds out from one of the CargoGlide slide-outs on a custom-fabricated hinged mount and fire pit.

NISMO Off Road accessory parts include a suspension lift kit, forged upper control arms, high-performance rear shocks and front coilovers. The NISMO Off Road accessories catalog also provides 17-in. Axis beadlock capable wheels with Yokohama GEOLANDAR M/T tires, a performance cat-back exhaust, a roof rack and numerous additional lights.

In addition, Project Tailgater includes an integrated Dometic cooler and refrigerator, a fold-out kitchen station and sink, plus a built-in propane grill that folds out from one of the CargoGlide slide-outs on a custom-fabricated hinged mount and fire pit.

See Nissan's one-off project vehicle build at the Nissan North America Booth #52103 in West Hall during the 2024 SEMA Show.

Project Trailgater is based on the '25 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X. For the '25 model year, the midsize pickup includes a visual refresh with a new front fascia and new wheels for the PRO-X/PRO-4X grades. At the same time, utility is enhanced with greater availability of the long-wheelbase, and six-foot bed configuration on PRO-4X and SL grades.

The new Frontier also adds a standard telescopic-adjusting steering wheel on all grades and a 12.3-in. touchscreen infotainment system for SV grades and higher. Maximum tow ratings increase across all Frontier grades, up to a maximum of 7,150 pounds. The PRO-4X grade used as the base for Project Trailgater enables adventure beyond the pavement with all-terrain tires, a locking rear differential, Bilstein off-road suspension components, and an even more rugged appearance with over fenders and Lava Red tow hooks.

"Tailgating has been a staple in the sports community for generations," said Eric Smart, builder and co-host, Music City Trucks. "Combining that with people's love for the outdoors and Nissan's decades-long legacy with the off-roading scene makes this a truly one-of-a-kind concept that magnifies the Frontier's versatility and capabilities."

SEMA Showgoers can see this build in person at the Nissan North America Booth #52103 in West Hall of the SEMA Show. View the SEMA Show floorplan here.

By SEMA Show Editors

 

Hotel reservations are open online here for the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, in Las Vegas, available at the lowest possible nightly rates through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak. 

SEMA Show and onPeak offer attendees and exhibitors the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas.

Booking your 2024 SEMA Show hotel through the official SEMA Show block provides unparalleled benefits, like: 

• Guaranteed Lowest Rates: Booking through the SEMA block guarantees our Showgoers the lowest rates in Las Vegas during the SEMA Show.
• Access Fully Flexible Booking: We know plans change, so that's why there are no change fees and no full pre-payment required at the time of booking, unlike most other booking channels. You can make changes or cancel your reservation without penalty until October 10, 2024. There's no downside to booking today!
• Access Easy Group Bookings: Book your entire group--large or small--in real-time with immediate confirmations. Nab the rooms you need now and log in later to assign specific guests. Rooms can be selected based on your team's specific nights and stay patterns, and you can manage payment for your whole block or guarantee each room with separate credit cards--it's that easy. 
• Earn Hotel Rewards Points: We know how important and valuable your hotel rewards points can be and how quickly they can add up when you travel to events and trade shows. That's why your reservation at an official hotel counts towards your hotel loyalty program. Simply enter your rewards number when securing your reservation, and you're all set. The benefits are endless when you book in the SEMA Show block!
• Source a Sustainable Hotel Stay: onPeak is available to help you feel confident about living a sustainable lifestyle. View Las Vegas hotel's sustainability plans on the onPeak website at onpeak.com/sustainability and read up on a few helpful travel tips at blog.onpeak.com. 

HOTEL BOOKING ALERT

Please be vigilant if approached by a travel or hotel booking company/service other than onPeak that implies or claims to be an official housing provider of the SEMA Show. We have been made aware of other housing companies or travel agencies that may be aggressively pursuing exhibitors, attendees or their companies to book guest rooms through their company at supposedly significant discounts, but note they are not affiliated with SEMA. onPeak and SEMA offer the best possible rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas.

Reservations made through an agency other than onPeak will be at your own risk. For more information, visit here. To notify SEMA Show Management of rogue travel agencies or for questions, contact (909)396-0289.

Securing housing is just one of the first steps on the road to the 2024 SEMA Show. Registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is open online here for qualified attendees. SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as successful and worthwhile as possible for all, so registration fees are only $40 through Friday, June 28. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

Airline discounts exclusive to SEMA Showgoers are also available through Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. More details here.

By Autofluencer

Big events like the SEMA Show are investments in not just money, but time, and you want to make sure that investment pays off. After working closely with brands and creators at Autofluencer and from years of SEMA exhibiting from the brand side, we've seen a few common pitfalls that exhibitors fall into time and time again. If you're looking to maximize ROI, avoid these mistakes and follow our easy fixes!

Mistake 1: Not Creating Pre-Show Hype

One of the biggest missed opportunities is failing to use your creator and influencer partners to generate buzz before the Show even begins. Promoting your booth and products in advance helps build anticipation and traffic to your booth. Many buyers and distributors already follow your creators, and their pre-Show promotion will help make it easier to book appointments and raise your brand's visibility.

As younger generations (late 20s, 30s, and 40s—yes, Millennials and Gen Z are in their 30s and 40s!) take over day-to-day roles in these businesses, social media has become crucial. You can't afford to miss out!

• Easy Button: Have 2-3 creators hyping your presence ahead of the Show to build momentum.
• Pro Tip: Send creators a sample product to showcase in their content, turning your booth into a "must-see" destination at the Show.
• How Autofluencer Helps: Post searchable Show-specific campaigns in Autofluencer, like "SEMA 2024 Collabs," and send the link to your existing creators so they can apply. Other creators who see the campaign in Autofluencer may also jump on board, maximizing your exposure. (Get a free 30-day trial at autofluencer.com/semafreetrial).

Mistake 2: Not Coordinating Creator Booth Content

Your booth staff will be swamped with meetings during the Show, and even if you have a media person on staff, their content often won't generate the same level of engagement as that from a creator with a large following. Some brands think they need to bring a car build to the Show, but that's not the only way to generate buzz. Whether or not you have a build, having creators stop by your booth and post content can exponentially increase your reach.

• Easy Button: Reach out to creators now and plan ahead. Yes, you may need to cover flights or offer compensation, but the content they create will be worth it!
• Pro Tip: Coordinate with other brands working with the same creators and share the costs of bringing them to the Show.
• How Autofluencer Helps: Set up Autofluencer campaigns to ensure you have creators stopping by your booth. Use a searchable campaign to find new talent who may already be attending the event. (Get a free 30-day trial at autofluencer.com/semafreetrial).

Mistake 3: Not Getting "Live" Show Content

It's fantastic to get highly edited content after the Show, but don't miss out on the chance to grab some "live" engagement while the event is happening. Ask your creators to do at least one live story or quick Reel directly from your booth. This can help bring more people to your location and increase your brand's visibility at a critical time.

• Easy Button: Make it part of the agreement that they'll post live from your booth—ideally during the busiest Show days like Tuesday or Wednesday. And remember, it doesn't need to be perfect—just fun and engaging!
• Pro Tip: Schedule specific times for creators to come by so your team can coordinate who's available for interviews or booth hype.
• How Autofluencer Helps: Autofluencer's built-in campaign contracts and deliverables make it easy to ensure your creators post live content during the Show. (Get a free 30-day trial at autofluencer.com/semafreetrial).

Mistake 4: The Future Creator Process Is a Pain

Exhibiting at a trade show is the perfect time to connect with future brand ambassadors, partners or sponsors. But let's face it—you'll be busy. Make it easy for creators to apply for your programs without bogging down your team.

• Easy Button: Have a QR code that creators can scan to apply for your partnership program. This keeps everything organized, and you can review applications after the Show.
• Pro Tip: Make your campaign clear about what you're looking for in a partner. If they can't answer key questions during the application process, they might not be the best fit later on.
• How Autofluencer Helps: Use our campaign builder to set up a "2025" or "Future Partner" campaign and make it searchable. Generate a QR code that links directly to your campaign. Display it on your booth signage to simplify the process for potential partners. (Get a free 30-day trial at autofluencer.com/semafreetrial).

Mistake 5: Creators Not Contracted for Post-Show Content

The Show might be over, but that doesn't mean your content strategy should stop there! A post-Show recap or sizzle reel can keep the energy going and re-engage buyers who attended the Show—or attract the attention of those who couldn't make it.

• Easy Button: Communicate exactly what type of post-Show content you want—whether it's a recap or a sizzle reel. Recaps usually work better with creators who have an on-camera presence, while photographers or videographers often excel at sizzle reels.
• Pro Tip: Get both! And if you didn't send products to creators before the Show, send them afterward for some install content to keep the momentum going.
• How Autofluencer Helps: Autofluencer makes it easy to set clear deliverables and reminders to ensure your creators follow through with post-Show content. That way, your booth—and your brand—stays top of mind. (Get a free 30-day trial at autofluencer.com/semafreetrial).

Bonus Mistake: Not Tracking Creator SEMA Content Performance!

You can't manage what you don't measure, but don't worry. Autofluencer can help you with our dynamic partnership performance reports that track creator performance across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube!

Summary

A successful Show partnership with creators should yield at least three to five (3-5) pieces of content, including live stories and Reels. And when new creators approach you at SEMA, don't just hand them a business card or send them to a crowded inbox. Make it easy for them to scan and apply for your open campaigns right on the spot with a QR code! And, Autofluencer can help you streamline this process for your creators and team—all while maximizing Show ROI!

Check out how Autofluencer can help with a 30-day free trial at autofluencer.com/semafreetrial.

By SEMA News Editors

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

SEMA Show Deadlines List

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

View the SEMA Show deadlines checklist.

Budget Checklist

This checklist allows exhibitors to keep track of all costs--like exhibit design, booth services, freight/material handling, labor and miscellaneous fees. Simply input the exhibiting company name for a personalized form.

View the SEMA Show budget checklist.

Upcoming Key Exhibitor Deadlines

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

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

• Friday, October 18: After-hours event submissions.
• Friday, October 18: After-hours events proof of security (required if hosting an after-hours event).
• Friday, October 18: LVCC meeting/function space reservation due.
• Friday, October 18: Shipping of carpet to Freeman Advance Warehouse due (carpets/pads only).
• Tuesday, October 22: Orders for tents/canopies due to Full Circle Events.
• Thursday, October 24: Important: Last-day freight will be accepted at the Advance Freeman warehouse without penalty.
• Thursday, October 24: Hanging sign/banner shipments due to Advance Freeman warehouse.
• Thursday, October 24: New Product Showcase advance shipments due to Advance Freeman Warehouse.
• Friday, October 25: Photography orders due to Expo Ease.
• Friday, October 25: Plant and floral orders due to Expo Ease.
• Saturday, October 26: Freight: First day shipments will be accepted at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
• Friday, October 4: New Products Showcase entry advance rate deadline. (The first product is always free; save $80 on each additional entry by submitting before this deadline).
• Friday, November 1: Vehicle detailing orders due to ShowFleet (for advanced rate).
• Thursday, November 7, 12:00 p.m. PST: Deadline to pick-up SEMA Show Banquet tickets.
• Thursday, November 7: SEMA Show online registration closes at 2:00 p.m. PST.
• Friday, November 8: SEMA Show Members Lounge conference room reservations close at 3:00 p.m. PST.

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

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

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

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

Last week, SEMA introduced members and the community of automotive enthusiasts to a series of voter guides that serve as a resource to help members know where lawmakers and candidates stand on issues important to the industry.

In the fourth video in support of SEMA's series of 2024 voter guides (seen below), Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA's senior vice president for public and government affairs, and Eric Snyder, senior director of federal government affairs, break down the main event of the upcoming election: the presidential matchup between former President Donald J. Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris. The video concludes a series that also provides an analysis of the elections in the House and Senate. SEMA also released voter guides to help educate its members about each candidates' impact on the automotive industry for the House, Senate and presidential races; they can be found at sema.org/vote and in this recent SEMA News story.

View the most recent SEMA Voter Guide video below:

SEMA's Voter Guides are non-partisan; all information is strictly based on candidates' stated positions on issues or their voting records on legislation identified by SEMA staff as important to the automotive aftermarket industry. The Voter Guides are part of SEMA's Drive The Vote initiative to encourage participation in the 2024 election and can be found at sema.org/vote.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

Last week, SEMA introduced members and the community of automotive enthusiasts to a series of voter guides that serve as a resource to help members know where lawmakers and candidates stand on issues important to the industry.

In the fourth video in support of SEMA's series of 2024 voter guides (seen below), Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA's senior vice president for public and government affairs, and Eric Snyder, senior director of federal government affairs, break down the main event of the upcoming election: the presidential matchup between former President Donald J. Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris. The video concludes a series that also provides an analysis of the elections in the House and Senate. SEMA also released voter guides to help educate its members about each candidates' impact on the automotive industry for the House, Senate and presidential races; they can be found at sema.org/vote and in this recent SEMA News story.

View the most recent SEMA Voter Guide video below:

SEMA's Voter Guides are non-partisan; all information is strictly based on candidates' stated positions on issues or their voting records on legislation identified by SEMA staff as important to the automotive aftermarket industry. The Voter Guides are part of SEMA's Drive The Vote initiative to encourage participation in the 2024 election and can be found at sema.org/vote.

By SEMA News Editors

Brembo Acquires Öhlins Racing

 

Brembo, the Italian brake systems and components manufacturer, has acquired Öhlins Racing, the Swedish manufacturer of high-performance suspension components in the original equipment, motorsport and aftermarket segments, from parent company Tenneco.

At $405 million, it is the largest acquisition in Brembo's history and will be paid with available funds.

Founded in 1976, Öhlins Racing is based in Upplands Väsby, Sweden, outside Stockholm, and has a strong international footprint. Öhlins employs approximately 500 people across two production facilities located in Sweden and Thailand, two research and development centers in Sweden and Thailand, and four distribution and testing branches in the United States, Germany, Thailand and Sweden.

The brand offers a range of products, including shock absorbers, front forks, steering dampers, software and algorithms, and accessories for the OEM and aftermarket segments. The company also has a presence in several major motorsport championships, supplying MotoGP, Formula 1, World Superbike, NASCAR and others.

For more information, visit brembo.com or ohlins.com.

Don Kyatt Group Expands Into North America

 

The Australia-based Don Kyatt Group is expanding into North America with its Terrain Tamer and Flashlube brands.

The company opened its 19th overall location and ninth international facility on October 1, in Stockton, California. Georg Esterer, the former operator of Terrain Tamer reseller Cruiser Brothers, will helm the warehouse facility as branch manager for the four-wheel-drive parts manufacturer.

In addition to Terrain Tamer's four-wheel-drive parts, the facility will also stock Flashlube's range of lubricants, additives, grease and preventative engine-maintenance hardware.

For more information, visit donkyatt.com.au.

By Ashley Reyes

 

SEMA is accepting nominations for the 2024 Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award until Wednesday, October 30.

Submit your nomination at this link.

Now in its second year, the award honors a featured vehicle at the 2024 SEMA Show that demonstrates exceptional engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or an aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond just physical appearance. It also aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle's design and engineering. 

"Engineers are continuously pushing the envelope to come up with new innovations that benefit our industry," said Jose Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs. "We look forward to seeing the outstanding creations and technical brilliance that this year's builders will bring."  

In 2023, Scorpion EV won the SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award for its '23 Cobra Venom. The build was an electric vehicle (EV) conversion car designed to demonstrate the ease with which internal-combustion engine vehicles can be converted to electric power. The car showcased Scorpion EV's Venom EV conversion kit, which solves the challenges related to EV conversions by providing the DIY builder with a complete, turnkey solution. 

To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video and description of the engineering content included in the build, as well as the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show. Entries are being accepted until October 30, 2024, at this link.

The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award winner will be announced at SEMA Central on Thursday, November 7, at the 2024 SEMA Show. 

By SEMA News Editors

 

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Cameron Foremaster, marketing manager at Speedtech Performance, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

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

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

Cameron Foremaster: When my daughter was six and scared to go up a hill on her dirt bike. I told her we could turn around. She said, "I’ll never know if I can or can't do it if I turn around and don't try." Then she ripped up the hill and was so proud when she made it. That statement has stuck with me when faced with adversities. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

CF: Working in the automotive industry has always been a dream. I love being creative and helping build the business. I have great friends and colleagues in the industry, plus I get to play with cool cars; why would I leave?

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

CF: As a single dad, I am always with my kids. We spend our time outside, riding motorcycles, playing sports, fishing at the pond or watching some form of motorsport.

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

CF: Whether it be presenting a marketing campaign, brainstorming sessions as a student or whatnot, I always do my best to have all the facts or findings necessary to be as proficient as possible. 

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

CF: I feel pretty lucky to have met or worked with a large number of leaders thus far, but one that will always be on my list is Elon Musk. I would love to pick his brain for an hour. 

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

By Laura Pitts

The SEMA Show in Las Vegas will return with a focus on innovation to meet the needs of an evolving automotive aftermarket industry. Part of this focus includes state-of-the-art vehicles meticulously customized for various applications seen throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center campus. As attendees prepare for the 2024 event, November 5-8, SEMA News editors have secured a sneak peek at some of the top builds and featured vehicles set for debut or display on the SEMA Show floor.

Vehicle: '24 Toyota Tacoma SR

Builders: James and Becky Ibarra, Ibarra Designs
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: Gibson Performance Exhaust, Booth #22515

This '24 Toyota Tacoma SR built by James and Becky Ibarra of Ibarra Designs will be on display in the Gibson Performance Exhaust Booth #22515 at the 2024 SEMA Show.

While yes, this '24 Toyota Tacoma SR built by James and Becky Ibarra of Ibarra Designs looks exceptional and is stacked with some of the industry's leading components, it also has a sentimental meaning behind why it exists in the first place.

"This Tacoma build is dedicated to my late mother, who passed away last year due to cancer," shared James Ibarra of Ibarra Designs. "Having my build at this year's SEMA Show is a huge honor for me and my family... this is the first time [completing] an entire build with my brother Daniel, my son James Jr. and nephew Daniel being involved on this project to honor my mother."

For aspiring builders hoping to one day display their car at SEMA, Ibarra shared, "It's the greatest feeling to have your vehicle displayed at the Super Bowl of the automotive world. I would say keep striving for greatness and perfecting your craftmanship. Don't be afraid to set new trends and ask questions, and learn by attending the SEMA Show. Networking is key!"
 

Gibson Exhaust components are featured on this '24 Toyota Tacoma build set for display at the 2024 SEMA Show.

This '24 Toyota Tacoma SR is supported by/with:

• Addictive Desert Designs
• American Tires (Camarillo)
• Armadillo USA
• BanksPower
• City Auto Wraps & Window Tint (Camarillo)
• Charvonia Designs
• Eibach
• Exclusive Auto Shop (Westlake Village)
• Gibson Exhaust
• Hankook Tires
• Katzin Automotive Leather
• Line-X Simi Valley
• Method Race Wheels
• MTX Audio
• Race Ramps
• Rough Country
• Seibon Carbon
• Stillen
• Teckwrap
• Truck Cover USA
• Turbo XS
• Westin Automotive
• Wilwood Disc Brakes

 

Vehicle: '22 Jeep Gladiator Hellcat

Builder: TruckGuru and Ryan Dayon
Owner: Ryan Dayon
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: Mickey Thompson, Booth #V550
 

You won't want to miss this apocalyptic build on the 2024 SEMA Show floor in the Mickey Thompson Booth #V550!

This armored insane Jeep build gets even more insane under the hood and carriage, with an actual Hellcat engine swap alongside ultimate overland bugout modifications.

"I've been into Jeeps since I was real young, and when the Gladiator came out, I thought it was cool but should have V8 power," said vehicle owner Ryan Dayon. "I chose Truck Guru due to [Cris'] professionalism and reach in the industry, which has nothing but positive reviews. He treats you like a friend and is trustworthy. And Mickey Thompson has been a staple tire in the off-road world since I can remember. Since I started running M/T back in the day, I have never had anything but awesome experiences with the tires. From balancing to wear and, of course, the amazing looks and performance of the tires."

This '22 Jeep Gladiator Hellcat is supported by/with:

• 785hp hellcat engine (tuning, pulleys and exhaust)
• Mickey Thompson Baja Boss tires
• Metalcloak and ARS, including RockSport Black shocks
• Rigid Industries lighting
• WARN winches front and rear
• PRP Seats
• Monster Hooks
• Prismatic Powders
• AlphaRex headlights and tail lights
• Scrubblade
• Kicker Audio
• Pelican
• Gen-Y Hitch
• Next Level Mats
• 1DayWraps.com

 

Vehicle: '67 Camaro Custom Off-Road

Builder, Designer and Owner: Truck Guru and Wright Bros Customs
Supported by: Cris Payne, TruckGuru
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: Mickey Thompson, Booth #84180

 

This '67 Camaro Custom Off-Road build, which will be on display at the 2024 SEMA Show, was inspired by the famous Mustang in the 1968 film, "The Thomas Crown Affair."

 

This rugged yet refined vehicle began as many new builds do, with a broad idea and a feeling. Jesse Wright of Wright Bros Customs shared the owner wanted to recreate the famous Mustang featured in the 1968 film "The Thomas Crown Affair," but make it off-road capable without changing much of the look.

"From there, I was given a clean slate to pick the car that we would use, what drivetrain would get fitted into it, interior design, suspension and whatever else I wanted to do or could do within the budget and time frame we had to work with. This freedom led to the car's factory hardtop being removable, all side glass being removed and shaved, as well as wide bodying the car, adding 3.25 in. of width at the centerline of each fender," said Wright.

After, the focus was on keeping the vehicle "clean and sleek" with the removal of all trims, minimalistic billet side mirrors, and emphasizing the body lines through the paint and body process.

"I then decided to top it off with a satin finish deep blue paint color (Mercedes), which would also help give a notable highlight to the body lines. I didn't want the car to look like it was wide-bodied or overly modified without requiring a second glance. The more you look, the more you notice," Wright said.

This '67 Camaro Custom Off-Road is supported by/with:

• Holley Performance (including a number of Holley-owned companies/brands)
• Wilwood Disc Brakes
• Fittipaldi wheels
• Mickey Thompson tires
• Rigid Industries
• Truck Guru

Vehicle: '70 Dodge Charger "Sangria"

Builder: Riccardo Salatino and Blazin' Rodz
Supported by: Hemmings
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: Hemmings, Booth #22493

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Blazin Rodz, LLC (@blazinrodz)

 

Built by Riccardo Salatino and the team at Blazin' Rodz, "Sangria" blends high-performance hot-rod engineering with custom exotic-car design, and will be unveiled during a press conference on Wednesday, November 5 at 12:30 p.m. PST at Booth #22493.

With more than 1,500 hp delivered by a Hellephant engine and a carbon-fiber body from Finale Speed, the Charger has been selected for the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers. Salatino used a combination of modern 3D modeling techniques and old-school coachwork fabrication to bring the vehicle to life. Following its unveiling, the car will be listed for sale on Hemmings.com's Make Offer platform.

In addition to vehicles built by visionary builders, attendees will want to experience unique SEMA activations that will be overflowing with innovative rides.

SEMA TORA Feature Vehicle Trail

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) will feature eight innovative builds at the SEMA Show as part of the council's Feature Vehicle Showcase. The vehicles will be displayed at the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail located on the outside walkway between the North and West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

"The TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase is all about highlighting the various products, vehicle trends, and business ideas that exist within the truck and off-road market," said TORA Council Director Denise Waddingham. 

The following vehicles are set for display in this special display. Attendees are encouraged to visit this Show section and vote for their favorite build as soon as possible, as the car with the most votes will be named the TORA Feature Vehicle Best in Show Award winner during TORA's Reception on Wednesday, November 6.

 

Vehicle: '24 Chevy Silverado 2500 diesel

Owner: Billet Racing
Category: Lifted Truck
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: TORA Feature Vehicle Trail

Attendees can expect to see this lifted '24 Silverado decked out with some of the industry's top brands and upgrades at the 2024 SEMA Show's TORA Feature Vehicle Trail.

 

Vehicle: '93 Mitsubishi Delica Overland Van Diesel Cummings R 2.8 swap

Owner: Custom FN Customs
Category: Overland
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: TORA Feature Vehicle Trail

This award-winning build by Custom FN Customs, to be seen in the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail at the 2024 SEMA Show, is teeming with some of the top brands in the overlanding category.

This '93 Mitsubishi is supported by/with:

• Tailgate table
• Shower system
• ARB front bumper, twin compressor, front and rear locker, front and rear air chucks, and more
• Smittybilt winch
• Aero Stainless exhaust
• Ironman LED spotlights
• Good Karma rear bumper and accessories
• DelicaWorks lift kit
• Stop Tech
• Goal Zero solar panels
• Fox front shocks
• Metalcloak rear shocks
• Timbren bumpstops
• Apex Performance
• Cummins

 

Vehicle: '22 Jeep Gladiator (gas-powered)

Owner: Ernie's Custom Shop
Category: Off-Road
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: TORA Feature Vehicle Trail

See Ernie's Custom Shop's head-turning build featuring some of the industry's most rugged designs available today at the 2024 SEMA Show's TORA Feature Vehicle Trail.

This '22 Jeep Gladiator is supported by/with: 

• XKGLOW Lighting
• Fox shocks
• HornBlasters
• DV8 Offroad

 

Vehicle: '22 Toyota Tundra (gas-powered)

Owner: ICON Vehicle Dynamics
Category: Off-Road
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: TORA Feature Vehicle Trail

ICON Vehicle Dynamics's '22 Toyota Tundra is designed specifically for off-roading and will be seen in the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail at the 2024 SEMA Show. 

 

Vehicle: '24 INEOS Grenadier 4x4 SUV Wagon (diesel-powered)

Owner: LGE-CTS Motorsports
Category: Overland
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: TORA Feature Vehicle Trail

This diesel-powered '24 INEOS Grenadier 4x4 SUV Wagon was meticulously built by LGE-CTS Motorsports and will be on display in the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail.

This '24 INEOS Grenadier 4x4 SUV Wagon is supported by/with:

• Firestone tires
• Baja Designs lighting
• ARB compressors

 

Vehicle: '76 Chevrolet K30 lifted square body (gas-powered)

Owner: North Speed and Restoration
Category: Overland
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: TORA Feature Vehicle Trail

See North Speed and Restoration's '76 Chevrolet K30 lifted square body at the 2024 SEMA Show's TORA Feature Vehicle Trail.

This '76 Chevrolet K30 is supported by/with:

• Dakota Digital​
• Detroit Steel Wheels​
• American Autowire​
• Vintage Air​
• BFG tires
• Griffin Radiator
• Pypes Exhaust
• Knish Kustoms interior
• PPG Paint
• Fox shocks
• BDS suspension

 

Vehicle: '24 Jeep Gladiator Overland Adventure (gas-powered)

Owner: Rebel Off Road
Category: Overland
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: TORA Feature Vehicle Trail

See this "rebel" of a '24 Jeep Gladiator Overland Adventure vehicle by Rebel Off-Road in the TORA Vehicle Trail at the 2024 SEMA Show.

 

This '24 Jeep Gladiator is supported by/with:

• Teraflex suspension​
• Currie Enterprises Axles​
• King Coilover shocks​
• KC Lights
• RockJock by John Curie sway bars
• Rebel Off Road bumpers ​
• WARN winch​
• HUBS​
• Nitto Tire
• KMC Wheels​
• Rotopax Rugged Radios
• PCI Race Radios​
• Rockslide Engineering​
• PSC Motorsports steering
• Kamper tent​
• ADAMS drive shafts​
• Combat Off Road fenders

 

Vehicle: '21 Jeep Wrangler Two-Door Rock Crawler (gas-powered)

Owner: Rebel Off Road
Category: Off-Road
Where to visit it at the 2024 SEMA Show: TORA Feature Vehicle Trail

This two-door rock crawler can basically defy gravity thanks to support from some of the industry's leading off-roading brands. See it in-person at the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail at the 2024 SEMA Show.

This '21 Jeep Wrangler is supported by/with:

• Rebel Off Road bumpers​
• WARN winch
• KC Lights​
• Currie Enterprises axles​
• RockJock by John Curie sway bars
• King Coilovers/shocks​
• MAXXIS tires​
• KMC Wheels​
• Rotopax​
• Rugged Radios​
• PCI Race Radios​
• PSC Motorsports Steering​
• ADAMS Drive Shafts​
• Completely custom cage​

SEMA LIVE

New-for-2024, SEMA Live will give people all around the opportunity to witness the innovations and trends on the SEMA Show floor during a virtual livestream (more details to be announced later). Of course, nothing can replace seeing these products up close and personal in person at the SEMA Show, but viewers can expect to see a lineup of vehicle unveilings on the SEMA Live schedule. For in-person attendees, you won't want to miss these debuts on the SEMA Show floor:

Tuesday, Nov. 5
*all times PST

• 9:30 a.m. Throtl - '99 Skyline R34 (Booth #22357)
• 11:00 a.m. RINGBROTHERS 970 Cuda Reveal (Booth #23889) 
• 11:30 a.m.: Real Truck - Chip Foose Reveal (Booth #50027) 
• 12:00 p.m.: CTEK: Vehicle Reveal & Product Overview (Booth #23657) 
• 12:30 p.m.: Hemmings 1970 Dodge Charger Reveal (Booth #22493) 
• 1:00 p.m.: RINGBROTHERS- '72 Blazer and 87 Grand National Reveal (Booth #23889) 
• 1:10 p.m.: Guetto Bob Car Reveal (Booth #23191)

Wednesday, Nov. 6

• 10 a.m.: Barrett-Jackson Charity Car Reveal (Booth #21427) 
• 11 a.m.: EMPI Inc.: EMPI Presents a Custom Porsche 914 (Booth #23427) 

Thursday, Nov. 7

• 10:30 a.m.: Superformance: Shelby Anniversary Edition Vehicle Introduction (Booth #24043) 

SEMA Overland Experience

See state-of-the-art vehicles customized for off-road and overland adventures. From trucks and SUVs to 4x4s, attendees will see firsthand how innovative modifications can turn vehicles into mobile homes ready for any terrain. Each build showcases the latest in suspension, lighting, storage solutions and more. In addition, the new-for-2024 onX Offroad Build Challenge will reach its thrilling finale at the SEMA Show with top, creative builds on full display. (Learn more here.) The competition boasts an impressive lineup of participants, including:

• Bleeping Jeep
• Rudy's Adventure and Design
• Fab Rats
• Mischief Maker JKU
• Colt Builds It
• Trail Mater
• Dirtlifestyle
• Robby Layton Nation

You won't want to miss seeing these innovative and creative builds in-person at the 2024 SEMA Show. Attendee, buyer and media registration for the SEMA Show is available at semashow.com/register. Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of travel discounts (more details here). Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register.