Toyota/Lexus

Toyota and Lexus announced a new Associated Accessory Products (AAP) program at the 2022 SEMA Show. The new program will bring third-party accessory brands into the vehicle-purchase process to broaden and streamline the ways customers can accessorize their Toyota and Lexus vehicles at the point of purchase.

AAP is bringing many well-known and respected accessory brands together for Toyota and Lexus customers with dozens of accessories available from brands like ARB, Go Rhino, Yakima, and Rigid Industries. The new program will add on- and off-road accessories to the already robust portfolio of genuine Toyota and Lexus accessories available to consumers across both companies’ model lineups.

Toyota unveiled the Trailhunter Concept during its press conference on opening day of the 2022 SEMA Show.

“We’re excited to make it easier than ever for our customers to outfit their vehicles themselves right from the dealer,” said Lisa Materazzo, group vice president – Toyota Division Marketing. “The AAP program will make customization a seamless experience for every owner, and every part will be validated by Toyota.”

For overlanders, accessories include items such as rooftop tents from Yakima and camp refrigerators from ARB. Rock crawlers will find products like high-performance fog lights from Rigid Industries, air compressor kits from ARB, and rock sliders from Go Rhino to make their trucks ready for action. And, for outdoor adventure athletes, there are ski racks and bike racks available from Yakima. Additionally, catalytic converter shields are offered from MILLERCAT to protect from theft.

All AAP products will carry Toyota or Lexus part numbers, making it easy for consumers to order directly from dealerships. And they will be able to roll the upgrade costs into their vehicle payment schedules, providing added ordering and purchasing convenience.

Dealerships will handle installation, which is not included in the cost of AAP products.

Trailhunter Concept

In other news, Toyota also unveiled the Trailhunter Concept at its press conference in booth #22200. Trailhunter is designed to strengthen Toyota’s commitment to the overlanding community and take its go-anywhere credentials to the next level.

Toyota is planning to offer purpose-built trucks and SUVs under the Trailhunter name to outdoor enthusiasts who long for off-the-grid expeditions. Trailhunter will serve as a flagship offering to inspire and support modifications of Toyota trucks with Toyota Genuine or Associated Accessory Products equipment across the lineup.

“Trailhunter trucks will come straight from the factory equipped to meet the needs of overlanding enthusiasts,” said Lisa Materazzo, group vice president – Toyota Division Marketing. “These trucks will be developed in-house by our engineering teams and will be the most capable OEM overlanding solutions designed to meet Toyota’s legendary quality, durability and reliability standards.”

Trailhunter vehicles will be highly capable, intentionally designed overlanding rigs. The all-new Trailhunter product line is designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts who love to explore with their vehicle. Designed and developed in-house at Toyota, Trailhunter vehicles will be adventure-ready straight from the factory, providing a trail-ready truck with components and accessories that support a remote off-the-grid experience.

The concept truck on display at the 2022 SEMA Show is equipped with a Trailhunter-specific suspension setup, skid plates, roof rack, bumpers, lighting, refrigerator, rooftop tent, and more all engineered specifically for overlanding applications.

Enthusiasts can expect future Trailhunter products to deliver terrain versatility and protection as well as load-bearing performance and storage functionality for their equipment, recovery gear, and base camp necessities.

Toyota will share additional Trailhunter details next year.

Volkswagen of America Inc. is featuring a number of custom builds on display in its booth #10509, including adventure concepts built on Volkswagen’s SUV models, alongside performance concepts and historic performance models.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen of America Inc. is featuring a number of custom builds on display in its booth #10509, including adventure concepts built on Volkswagen’s SUV models, alongside performance concepts and historic performance models.

Atlas Basecamp Camping Concept

Featuring rugged Basecamp styling components and a custom graphics package, the Atlas Basecamp Camping concept makes the outdoors more accessible. To get you where you want to go, the concept—based on a 2022 Volkswagen Atlas SEL VR6 3.6L 4Motion—adds an H&R raised suspension, utilizing Street Performance Adventure Lift coilovers and TRAK+ wheel spacers. Custom floodlights and 17-in. fifteen52 Traverse MX wheels in Frosted Graphite are wrapped in 245/70R17 all-terrain tires to add an aggressive look to match the off-road styling of the Atlas concept. To increase the versatility of the Atlas, the concept has a Volkswagen Accessories cross bar and Thule® Basket & Side Awning, as well as a prototype 2-in-1 Air Pump by NSV incorporated in the trunk area to inflate a camping mattress or sporting equipment. 

Taos Basecamp Active Concept

The Taos Basecamp Active concept starts with a 2022 Volkswagen Taos SEL 4Motion and adds rugged Basecamp styling components and graphics package shared with the Atlas Basecamp Camping concept. Similar to the Atlas concept, the Taos concept features 17-in. fifteen52 Traverse MX wheels in Frosted Graphite, 225/55R17 all-terrain tires, and a lifted suspension with H&R springs and TRAK+ wheel spacers. Volkswagen Accessories on the concept include base carrier bars and bike racks, along with the Full Display Mirror, tablet holder, Muddybuddy floor liners, roadside assistance and first aid kit, Bumperdillo protection plate, and rear seat cover. In addition, a custom cargo divider and custom trunk flood lighting help keep gear organized and visible on the go. The Taos Basecamp Active concept is shown with Marin bicycles, bike helmets, and a fire extinguisher.

ID.4 EV Drone Command Concept

Volkswagen of America is collaborating with the Tennessee Valley Authority as the utility corporation sets a goal of operating a 100% electric sedan and SUV fleet by the year 2030. As one of its early steps, the utility provider has chosen to collaborate with Volkswagen on a year-long test using its ID.4 EV to analyze capabilities and various applications of electric vehicle usage.  As part of this test, Volkswagen has modified a 2023 ID.4 AWD Pro S as a “Mobile Drone Response Vehicle” to equip TVA test drivers for a number of real-world response scenarios. The ID.4 EV was the winner of the first-ever SEMA Award for Electric Vehicle of the Year.

An exterior graphics package was designed to boost visibility of the test fleet program. Featuring a trunk-housed custom storage unit for drone and field equipment, the vehicle is also outfitted with a portable power station. Versatility gets a boost by way of a Thule Caprock platform roof rack, supplemented with a Thule retractable side awning. Eighteen-inch wheels with H&R TRAK+ wheel spacers and 245/60R18 all-terrain tires unlock new roads for the SUV, while a heavy-duty suspension aids in hauling the weight of additional equipment. Roadside emergency lighting and side and rear-mounted floodlighting help responders when arriving on scene, while a full-display digital rearview mirror ensures optimal visibility for the vehicle’s operator. 

ID.4 Accessories Concept

The ID.4 Accessories concept starts with a 2021 ID.4 1st Edition and adds versatile lifestyle elements. Outside, Volkswagen Accessories base carrier bars support a Thule Canyon Basket to haul gear and an Apex XT 9025XT hitch-mounted bike rack is ride ready. Splash guards protect the eighteen-inch wheels with H&R TRAK+ wheel spacers and 245/60R18 all-terrain tires. Inside, Volkswagen Accessories include the Full Display Mirror, rear seat cover, a spare tire kit, dock & coat hanger, roadside assistance and first aid kit, and Monster Mats all-season floor mats.

GTI Accessories Concept

An homage to the Volkswagen enthusiast, this GTI concept reflects a blended approach to personalization. Based on a 2022 Volkswagen GTI SE with six-speed manual, the concept features Oettinger body styling components—front valence, rear valence and rear spoiler—as well as 20-in. gloss-black multi-spoke wheels wrapped in 245/30R20 high-performance tires. Braking is upgraded with the help of eight-piston calipers and 14.6-in. ventilated cross-drilled rotors in front. The vehicle also features a lowered stance using H&R Street Performance coilovers. Showing off the practical side of the sporty Golf platform is a color-matched roof box on base carrier bars. Additional curated items from Volkswagen Accessories include GTI dynamic center wheel caps, dynamic turn signals, black Bumperdillo rear bumper protection, enhanced rear view mirror with Homelink Connect, Monster Mats all-season floor mats, heavy-duty trunk liner with CarGo blocks, and an emergency triangle.

Jetta GLI Performance Concept

A reimagining of the Jetta GLI by the Volkswagen Design Center California was unveiled at the show on November 1. More details to come.

2004 Golf R32

Twenty years ago, the Volkswagen Golf R32 took the world by storm. First released in Europe, the Mk4 Golf R32 was groundbreaking with its narrow-angle 3.2L VR6 engine putting out 240 hp and 235 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a six-speed manual and 4Motion all-wheel drive. In 2004, a made-for-America version was produced, bringing just over 5,000 units of the performance hatchback stateside.

The two-door 2004 R32 featured a special three-grille front bumper, side skirts, rear hatch spoiler, and rear valance with special dual-exit rear muffler. It rode on 18-inch multi-spoke wheels, paired with 225/40R18 performance summer tires and 13.1-inch front and 10.1-inch rear ventilated disc brakes. It was available in just four colors: Black Magic, Deep Blue, Reflex Silver, and Tornado Red. The interior mirrored the performance nature of the elevated hot hatch. Sport seats with integrated head restraints and supportive high bolsters sat alongside a sport steering wheel and aluminum interior accents, with “R” logo placement throughout.

2022 Golf R

The redesigned 2022 Golf R continued to evolve a legacy of understated performance first pioneered for the 2004 model year. Almost two decades later, the fifth iteration of Volkswagen’s performance halo ups the ante with new race-inspired content and premium features.

With 315hp, and up to 295 lb.-ft. of torque delivered by next-gen EA888 evo4 TSI engine, the 2022 Golf R can be paired with either a six-speed manual or 7-speed DSG transmission. The 2022 model year brought new vehicle dynamics settings and torque-vectoring AWD, along with advanced DCC functionality and new driving modes to improve handling. The Golf R is fitted with 19-in. black machined aluminum-alloy wheels wrapped in 235/35 summer performance tires and features 14.1-in. front and 12.2-in. rear vented disc brakes. VW Accessories content on display includes R-specific MonsterMats all-season mats, a frameless rearview mirror with HomeLink Connect capability, and a Bumperdillo rear bumper protector.

Golf A59 Prototype

The 1993 Rallye Golf 3 A59 Prototype was created as a proof of concept to determine the feasibility of entering the 1994 FIA World Rally Championship, for which homologation regulations required that manufacturers create 2,500 street-legal versions. This prototype was developed with Schmidt Motorsport (SMS), and had it been put into production, it would have been the highest performance version of the third-generation Golf family. This specific car is the only complete version ever built. The engine and drivetrain were developed specifically for this concept, and although the Golf A59 did not go on to compete in races, the engine design went on to class wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in different vehicles.

Volkswagen’s performance unicorn featured a bespoke 2.0L all-aluminum turbocharged four-cylinder engine, putting out 275 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission and four-wheel drive with a variable center differential. The front strut-type suspension was modified with Bilstein shock absorbers for longer travel, and the control arm width was increased by 3 inches. The fully independent rear suspension was a multi-link design, with Bilstein struts, and retained the original factory chassis attachment points, supplemented with additional points. It rode on 16-inch five-spoke Speedline SL817 motorsport wheels, with 225/45R16 tires, and braking was handled by a Brembo system with cross-drilled brake discs.

Carbon fiber and Kevlar graced the exterior, which featured a modified front bumper with chin spoiler, additional air intakes in the custom grille and hood, widened front and rear fender arches, pronounced side skirts, a rear hatch spoiler, and a custom rear bumper with twin pipe muffler. Inside, RECARO A8 sport seats with integrated head restraints and supportive high bolsters were met with a sport three-spoke steering wheel, and integral roll bar. A digital dashboard with engine monitoring selection sat in front of the driver, while additional engine and rally controls resided on the dashboard and inside the glovebox.

Nissan

Nissan will reveal six new concept vehicles, plus the public debut of the all-new Z GT4 racing car, at the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Nissan’s diverse SEMA lineup includes electric, street/track performance and off-road-focused vehicles designed to inspire owners to customize their own vehicles for next-level excitement. Nissan’s Thrill Street exhibit in the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall, booth #52141, showcases the seven different vehicles and two “parts walls” featuring off-road and street-focused NISMO accessory parts for owners to personalize their own vehicles.

As Nissan continues to pursue accessible electric mobility for all, the company, in partnership with Tommy Pike Customs of Greenville, South Carolina, is bringing two EV concepts to SEMA. The first is a Nissan Sunny LEAF project, a classic Sunny pickup truck with a Nissan LEAF powertrain swap, providing all-electric power for the classic Nissan model.

The Nissan Ariya Surfwagon concept also combines retro design with modern technology, reimagining the all-new 2023 Ariya all-electric crossover as a beach-style surf wagon, complete with a wood panel-style wrap and other accessories.

The recently redesigned Nissan Frontier is already inspiring builders to transform the midsize truck to reflect their personalities and preferred activities. Two concepts on display at the SEMA showcase show the range of possibilities for reimagining Frontier. The NISMO Off-Road Frontier V8 concept, built by Forsberg Racing, takes Frontier to the extreme with a TITAN V8 engine, unique suspension, a wide-body conversion and multiple NISMO Off-Road parts.

At the other end of the spectrum, Nissan enthusiast and influencer Christina Roki is showing a Frontier Street Truck project. Wearing a distinct wrap and lowered with a two unique wheel-and-tire package, Roki’s Frontier harkens back to the “mini truckin’” craze of the ‘90s.

The 2023 Nissan Z is an ideal platform for enthusiastic drivers to make the sports car their own and build on its already exhilarating personality with added performance. Owners and fans of the 2023 Z will be especially intrigued by the NISMO Accessorized Z, which features a variety of new NISMO and Genuine Accessory components that will be available for the new Nissan Z. These components will appeal to drivers looking to personalize and customize the twin-turbocharged sports coupe.

For fans of all things drifting, Chris Forsberg’s 1,300hp 2023 Formula Drift Z shows how the new Nissan Z can participate in the world of Formula Drift. It builds on Forsberg Racing’s extensive experience developing high-powered and highly competitive drift cars.

Finally, Nissan’s SEMA booth is hosting the public debut of the Nissan Z GT4, a purpose-built racing car that will hit circuits in 2023 to continue to defend the Z’s long heritage of motorsports successes.

Consistently voted as the No. 1 destination by SEMA Show buyers and media, the 2022 New Products Showcase has expanded to include two new product categories: electric vehicles (EV), and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Of course, the other 16 product categories are available to Show goers as well. The showcase is the automotive aftermarket industry’s most comprehensive collection of new and trending products.

The New Products Showcase is the automotive aftermarket industry’s most comprehensive collection of new and trending products.

Details on all the products from the Showcase are also included in the SEMA Show mobile app, which includes a product-scanning feature that enables attendees to flag items of interest and create custom lists of noteworthy products.

The New Products Showcase is available in the Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The following 2022 SEMA Show interactive features are happening this week at the Las Vegas Convention Center:

Pennzoil Dare to Perform

Games and contests are taking place at Pennzoil’s “Dare to Perform” Experience.

The Pennzoil “Dare to Perform” Experience at the 2022 SEMA Show combines fun, energetic entertainment with industry education that will help professionals in the automotive aftermarket.

Showgoers can connect with Pennzoil scientists, industry personalities, professional drivers and automotive builders, including John Hennessey, Chelsea DeNofa, Austin Cindric, Vaughn Gittin Jr., Adam LZ, Larry Chen, Rhys Millen, Federico Sceriffo, Joey Logano and more.

Vehicles on display at the booth include Hennessey Performance’s Venom F5 Roadster; the Pennzoil Yellow Submarine; Chelsea DeNofa’s Ford Mustang Formula DRIFT Car; Rod Millen’s Toyota Tacoma from Pike’s Peak; Federico Sceriffo’s Ferrari Formula DRIFT car, aka ‘Fiorella’; Expedition Overland’s Toyota Tacoma ‘Raven’; The Koester Racing Tractor; and Johnny Grunwald’s ’94 Pennzoil Mazda RX7.

SEMA Electrified

The expanded SEMA Electrified section of the Show is located in the North Hall and features the latest advancements in EV technology for new products and conversions.

TIS Off-Road and Lifestyle Showcase

TIS Off-Road, led by urban car scene veteran and iconic entrepreneur Myles Kovacs, brought its Off-Road and Lifestyle Showcase to the 2022 SEMA Show. Attendees will be able to experience segments of car culture never before seen at the SEMA Show, including Low Rider Hopping, Mini Truck Bed Dancing and Truck Drifting. The exhibit also features more than 55 of the world’s top show trucks set to make their debut. See the automotive works of art performing daily at the 2022 SEMA Show.

Optima Village

The OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational (OUSCI) action-packed excitement is available to attendees in the SEMA Show's Bronze Lot, located in the outdoor area south of South Hall. Catch three of the five segments of the competition. The Peak Performance Challenge and the Lingenfelter Design & Engineering Challenge took place for the first time at the 2021 SEMA Show. The two segments return to this year and will be joined by the SEMA Show debut of the competition's Autocross portion.

SEMA News—November 2022

HERITAGE

Behind the Scenes at the First SEMA Show

By Drew Hardin

Photography: Bob D’Olivo, Petersen Publishing Company Archive

The Shelby American booth featured a prototype GT40, speed parts for the Cobra and GT 350 hanging on the wall, and a Paxton-supercharged 302 on an engine stand.

Fifty-five years ago, during a cold and blustery week in early January 1967, 120 members of the performance aftermarket manned 98 booths on the Stadium Club level of Dodger Stadium for what was billed as the First Annual High Performance and Custom Trade Show. More than 3,000 people attended the show and took part in numerous activities set up to complement the event, from an exhibitor’s banquet held at the famous Coconut Grove nightclub inside the Ambassador Hotel to guided tours of the area’s many performance parts manufacturers.

Today the SEMA Show is a fixture in the performance industry. In 1966, it was just an idea.

“It was Mr. Petersen who had the idea in the first place,” recalled GiGi Carleton, longtime executive assistant and personal manager to publishing magnate Robert E. Petersen (and now President of the Margie and Robert E. Petersen Foundation). In the fall of 1966, Petersen launched Hot Rod Industry News (HRIN), a trade magazine devoted to the business of automotive performance and a sibling title to his then-nearly-20-year-old Hot Rod magazine. He believed a trade show “was a ‘must’ activity for the new magazine,” as he said in HRIN’s January 1967 issue. In charge of the endeavor was Dick Wells, who was then working in Petersen Publishing’s Special Events department. He was aided by Carleton and Alex Xydias, Publisher of HRIN and, years before, the founder of the original SO-CAL Speed Shop.

In the B&M booth, Bob Sparr talked transmission adapters with Oscar Karamanian and Ed Stone from New England Speed Equipment of Boston.

“I believe we had six months, or possibly less, to plan for that first show,” Carleton said.

Selling the show “fit me to a T,” said Xydias, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday. “When I was at the speed shop, I knew every manufacturer in town. I bought stuff from all of them, so it was easy for me to talk to them about a booth in the show.”

Dodger Stadium wasn’t so much chosen for the venue as it was inevitable. “It was the only venue available at the time in early January with a big parking lot,” Carleton said. “The Anaheim Convention Center was in the process of being built. We looked at the Hollywood Palladium and even the Great Western Arena near downtown L.A. The idea was to have it in Los Angeles near the two airports, LAX and Lockheed,” as the Burbank Airport was called then.

As for the show itself, “we just kind of patched it together,” Xydias recalled. “Booths were pretty much a card table and two chairs, with an eight-foot drape behind. We gave them a sign with their name on it, and that was pretty much it for everybody. Nobody had much experience with it.”

Dodger Stadium’s Club level turned into a trade show January 10–12, 1967. That’s Vic Edelbrock Jr. manning the Edelbrock booth, which is next to a large display for Ansen Automotive.

That lack of experience was evident when Xydias walked the show’s aisles and found the exhibitors sitting in their booths. “I told them, ‘Stand up! You’re not here to rest. This is your business. If you’re sitting down, nobody is going to come over and make you get up to talk about your product.’ Those were the kinds of things we tried to do in the first show, to educate ourselves and also our exhibitors and the people who came to the show.”

Nevertheless, “the show did pretty well, under the circumstances,” Xydias said. Coverage in the February 1967 issue of HRIN called the show “a complete success.”

“We were so surprised at the attendance, which far surpassed what we had hoped for,” Carleton said. “I remember driving to Dodger Stadium on the first day of the show after our set-up day. I saw so many cars parked in the stadium parking lot, I thought there must be another event taking place. I was wrong. All those cars were there for the first SEMA Show.

“Many of the first exhibitors were leery about this show and wondered if they would meet their expenses for airfare, hotel, and so on,” she added. “But they all went home with a fistful of orders, more than they had ever anticipated.”

“Was it a success?” Xydias asked. “It was a success because we had the second one.” The following year, the show moved to the newly opened Anaheim Convention Center, where some 3,800 attendees did business among nearly 200 booths.

“And look at it now,” Carleton said. “Wow.”

The SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polishes top 40 finalists have been announced.

Since the SEMA Show’s annual Battle of the Builders (BOTB) Presented by Mothers Polishes debuted in 2014, the nationwide competition series has become one of the most anticipated events of Show Week. For 2022, the action will unfold throughout the week, with cameras following along to document the journey for a TV program set to air on Saturday, January 28, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. EST. (Visit www.semabotb.com for updates on TV airings.)

The SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polishes competition has been narrowed down to the top 40 finalists.

The competition recognizes one winner in four different categories:

• Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck
• 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road
• Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic
• Young Guns—before crowning the coveted title, Battle of the Builders Champion.  

While a panel of industry experts narrows down the selection of vehicles, it’s the builders themselves who ultimately select the four class winners as well as the overall winner. You can follow the progress during the Show at a press conference announcing the top 12 finalists, Wednesday, November 2, at 1:30 p.m., in North Hall #10139. The top 4 will be announced Thursday, November 3, at 1:30 p.m., in North Hall #10139, and the winner will be crowned on Friday, November 4, at 3:00 p.m., on Silver Drive.

2022 Top 40 Builders:

Hot Rod/Hot Rod Trucks

• Will Posey, 1961 Chevrolet Impala, Hushmat Booth #23195
• Eddie Pettus, 1963 Chevrolet Corvette, BASF Booth #20365
• Troy Ladd, 1932 Ford Coupe, Battle of the Builders Booth #10139
• Troy Gudgel, 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle, HRIA Booth #23295
• Ringbrothers, 1948 Chevrolet Pickup Loadmaster, Mothers Booth #22357
• Justin l. Nichols, 1932 Ford Roadster Pickup, Coker Tire Booth #22677
• Tyler Nelson, 1958 Ford F100, Mothers, South Silver Lot
• Brian Limberg, 1936 Willys Model 77 Pickup, Presta Products Booth #54149
• Jonathan Goolsby, 1969 Dodge A108 Van, BASF Booth #20365
• Tim Devlin, 1934 Chevrolet Roadster, HRIA Booth #23295

Sport Compact, Luxury and Exotics

• TJ Russell, 1991 Porsche 911, BAJA Front of Central Hall V052
• Scott Kanemura, 1993 Toyota 4Runner, Paddock Booth #81050
• Jeff Norris, 1960 Lotus Eleven, Mothers North, Silver Lot
• Ronald Norat, 1988 BMW E30/M3, Renner Booth #47183
• John Sarkisyan, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL, Toyo Treadpass
• Shawn Bassett, 1991 Nissan Skyline GT-R, Moton Booth #20555
• Shawn Bassett, 2019 Audi RS3, Toyo Treadpass
• Dan Long, 1966 Superformance GT40 Mk2, Superformance Booth #24975
• Austin Barnett, 1976 Porsche 911, Toyo Treadpass
• CJ Pullman, 1977 Ford Pinto, Front of Central Hall Booth #V319

4-Wheel Drive & Off-Road

• Rob Hester, 2022 GMC Jimmy, Flat Out Autos Booth #24675
• Cody Bennett, 2005 Chevrolet Silverado, Outside South Hall Booth #V516
• Ringbrothers, 1972 Chevrolet K5 Blazer, HRIA Booth #23295
• Jerry Harding, 1950 Willys Station Wagon, Toyo Treadpass
• Cody Dabney, 1970 Ford F-250, South Hall Booth #CO7
• Gregory R. Henderson, 2022 Jeep 4XE Rubicon JL, Quadratec Booth #58085
• Nathan Staker, 1979 Jeep Wagoneer, Tremec Booth #81280
• Mark Harlow, 1981 Jeep Stretched CJ5, Front of Central Hall Booth #V142
• Greg Ward, 1971 Toyota FJ40 Landcruiser, North Hall Booth #10215
• Chad Anderson, 2010 Toyota Tundra, Front of Central Hall Booth #V021

Young Guns 29 & Under

• Bryce Adams, 1983 Chevrolet C10, Battle of the Builders Booth #10139
• Cameron Cocalis, 2015 Scion FR-S, Toyo Treadpass
• Connor Crews, 1998 Chevrolet C1500, Front of Central Hall Booth #V032
• Jordan Fields, 1965 Ford Shelby Cobra, South Hall Lower Booth #VS104
• Tyler Adams, 1967 Chevrolet K-10, Battle of the Builders Booth #10139
• Luke Rowe, 1935 Ford Truck, K&N Booth #22351
• Logan Adkins, 1954 Ford F100, Battle of the Builders Booth #10139
• Austin Phipps, 1966 Chevrolet Nova, Battle of the Builders Booth #10139
• Josh Michels, 1966 Chevrolet Corvette, Battle of the Builders Booth #10139
• Dayton Jacobson, 1954 Oldsmobile 88 Convertible, Battle of the Builders Booth #10139

The Best New Product Award winners at the 2022 SEMA Show have been announced. These awards are given to the most innovative and cutting-edge automotive aftermarket products that will be consumable in 2022.

SEMA’s annual New Product Awards competition recognizes outstanding achievements in the development of products being introduced to the automotive specialty-equipment market at the SEMA Show. Products are judged in 18 award categories, and each category has one winner and two runners-up.

Nearly 2,000 products were entered into the 18 different Showcase categories to be considered for SEMA New Product Awards this year. Winners were selected based on a variety of factors that included superiority of innovation, technical achievement, quality and workmanship, consumer appeal and marketability and more. 

The New Product Award Winners are:

ALLDATA ADAS Quick Reference, ALLDATA

Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Product

• Winner: ALLDATA ADAS Quick Reference, ALLDATA
• Runner Up: Hands-On ADAS Calibration Training, I-CAR
• Runner Up: Test Drive CoPilot, Opus IVS

Test Drive CoPilot, Opus IV

Collision Repair & Refinish Product

• Winner: Test Drive CoPilot, Opus IVS
• Runner Up: 3M RepairStack Performance Solutions, 3M
• Runner Up: Fast Puller by GUNIWHEEL, GUNIWHEEL

Active Performance Sound, Borla Performance

Electric Vehicle Product

• Winner: Active Performance Sound, Borla Performance
• Runner Up: APP EV Systems Battery Conversion Kit, APP EV Systems

Engineered New Product

• Winner: Pneumatic StraightGate50 Butterfly Style External Wastegate, Turbosmart
• Runner Up: Fuel tank laser sensor/sender, International Industry LLC
• Runner Up: ORANGETOP HYPERCORE Lithium, OPTIMA Batteries

Angled Front Fender Flare for Bronco, TRAILFX

Exterior Accessory Product

• Winner: Angled Front Fender Flare for Bronco, TRAILFX
• Runner Up: Armor Box, Hammerhead Armor
• Runner Up: Classic Ski Rack, SeaSucker

The Legend Mirror DVR Power Switch System, Acumen Robot Intelligence

Interior Accessory Product

• Winner: The Legend Mirror DVR Power Switch System, Acumen Robot Intelligence
• Runner Up: RFX-55C-PU 1955-59 Chevy Truck Grafix Series Gauge System, Dakota Digital
• Runner Up: TYPE S Formula DRIFT Pro Series Ultra-Slim Smart LED Trim Kit, Horizon Brands

Bed Mat Counter Display, Dee Zee

Merchandising Display

• Winner: Bed Mat Counter Display, Dee Zee
• Runner Up: Dee Zee Totem Displays, Dee Zee
• Runner Up: M1 POWERED DISPLAY STAND, Mach Built

Mobile Electronics Product

• Winner: SRK-JK11H, AudioControl
• Runner Up: Ford Bronco Rear Speaker Pods, Metra Electronics Corp.
• Runner Up: LPHFD31, AudioControl

Off-Road/4-Wheel Drive Product

• Winner: Jeep JL, JT & JK Adjustable Front Bump Stop Kit, RockJock 4x4 by John Currie
• Runner Up: Integrated Aero Windshield LED Light Bar System for 2021+ Ford Bronco by ORACLE Lighting, ORACLE Lighting
• Runner Up: KIT175 - Ford Extreme Duty Tie Rod and Drag Link Assembly Fits 2017-2022 F-250/F-350 Super Duty, Apex Chassis

Packaging Design

• Winner: Bubba Off-Road Truck Recovery Gear Set, Bubba Off-Road Recovery Gear
• Runner Up: J-Mount, BOLT Lock
• Runner Up: TYPE S Formula DRIFT Pro Series Exterior Smart Lighting Kit, Horizon Brands

All New "OPR" Turbocharger Oil Pressure Regulator, Turbosmart

Performance-Racing Product

• Winner: All New "OPR" Turbocharger Oil Pressure Regulator, Turbosmart
• Runner Up: PETERSON FLUID SYSTEMS R4 OIL PUMP W/REAR ACCESSORY DRIVE & FRONT PROCHARGER SHAFT, Specialty Products Company/SPC Performance
• Runner Up: Smart Canards, Victor Racing, Inc.

Performance-Street Product

• Winner: Antigravity Batteries "RE-START" Lithium Starter Battery, Antigravity Lithium Batteries
• Runner Up: Hypertech REACT Throttle Optimizer, HYPERTECH
• Runner Up: TractionMAX, JMS Chip & Performance

MLX-9000 Series Motorcycle Gauge, Dakota Digital

Powersports Product

• Winner: MLX-9000 Series Motorcycle Gauge, Dakota Digital
• Runner Up: Belt Temperature Sensor for Polaris/Can-Am, Dynojet Research Inc.
• Runner Up: Hypertech Spectrum Power Programmer for Polaris, HYPERTECH

Custom Microsteer Integrated Column Program, Flaming River Industries Inc.

Street Rod/Custom Car Product

• Winner: Custom Microsteer Integrated Column Program, Flaming River Industries Inc.
• Runner Up: Gen 5 Super Magnum heat/cool/defrost system, Vintage Air Inc.
• Runner Up: RTX-33F-X 1933-34 Ford Car Retrotech Series Gauge System, Dakota Digital

VICTRA SPORT EV, Maxxis Tire

Tire and Related Product

• Winner: VICTRA SPORT EV, Maxxis Tire
• Runner Up: Mastercraft Courser Trail HD, Cooper Tire & Rubber Co.
• Runner Up: Open Country R/T Trail, Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp.

The 92110-SGX Surface Grinder, Burr King Manufacturing Co., Inc.

Tools & Equipment Product

• Winner: The 92110-SGX Surface Grinder, Burr King Manufacturing Co., Inc.
• Runner Up: Vyper Creeper, Vyper Industrial
• Runner Up: Buddy Load Binder Attachment, Buddy Load Binder Attachment

Monkey Bars (Ridge Ready), SeaSucker

Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product

• Winner: Monkey Bars (Ridge Ready), SeaSucker
• Runner Up: Antigravity Batteries "RE-START" Lithium Starter Battery, Antigravity Lithium Batteries
• Runner Up: Smartop Platform Truck Bed cover, Smartop

Wheel and Related Product

• Winner: MMX Forged Wheel, MMX Wheels
• Runner Up: ICON ALLOYS 17" REBOUND SLX, ICON Vehicle Dynamics
• Runner Up: Lynx Trail Gunner Wheel for Bronco, Quadratec

With dozens of industry influencers, celebrities, noteworthy builds, games, prizes and activities, Pennzoil’s “Dare to Perform” Experience at the 2022 SEMA Show combines fun, energetic entertainment with industry education that will help professionals in the automotive aftermarket.

Located in Booth #81059 just outside the main entrance of the Las Vegas Convention Center, Showgoers can connect with Pennzoil scientists, industry personalities, professional drivers and automotive builders, including John Hennessey, Chelsea DeNofa, Austin Cindric, Vaughn Gittin Jr., Adam LZ, Larry Chen, Rhys Millen, Federico Sceriffo, Joey Logano and more. Meanwhile, games and contests are taking place, and technical experts explain and conduct live demonstrations showcasing how motor oils protect a vehicle’s engine.

Pennzoil’s “Dare to Perform” Experience features custom builds, industry personalities, professional drivers and automotive builders.

“The Pennzoil Dare to Perform Experience is a fun and engaging way for professionals at the SEMA Show to build career-boosting connections and learn what’s new in the industry,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “The interactive demonstrations and in-person activities contribute to an engaging experience that you can only get at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas.”

Some of the vehicles within the Pennzoil booth (#81059) include:

• Hennessey Performance’s Venom F5 Roadster
• The iconic Pennzoil Yellow Submarine
• Chelsea DeNofa’s Ford Mustang Formula DRIFT Car
• Rod Millen’s Toyota Tacoma from Pike’s Peak
• Federico Sceriffo’s Ferrari Formula DRIFT car, aka ‘Fiorella’
• Expedition Overland’s Toyota Tacoma ‘Raven’
• The Koester Racing Tractor
• Johnny Grunwald’s ’94 Pennzoil Mazda RX7

Remaining Schedule:

Thursday, November 3

9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Perfect Pour of Coffee

9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m.
Jimmy Houston Autographs

11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
RTR Drift Driver’s Autographs

12:30 p.m.–1:00 p.m.
Jonny Grunwald Autographs

1:00 p.m.–1:30 p.m.
Larry McReynolds Autographs

2:30 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Larry Chen Autographs

3:30 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Federico Sceriffo Autographs

Friday, November 4

12:00 p.m.–12:30 p.m.
Larry McReynolds Autographs

1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Jonny Grunwald Autographs

3:00 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
Larry Chen Autographs

3:30 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Federico Sceriffo Autographs

The SEMA Show includes, for the first time, a 6,000-sq.-ft. area dedicated to helping businesses understand how to customize and/or repair vehicles that have Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS). Located in booth #36007 (Upper South Hall), the SEMA Show ADAS Showcase, sponsored by Enterprise Rental Car, features ADAS-related tools, equipment, demonstrations and experts throughout the four-day SEMA Show, November 1–4, in Las Vegas.

Located in booth #36007 (Upper South Hall), the SEMA Show ADAS Showcase features ADAS-related tools, equipment, demonstrations and experts throughout the four-day SEMA Show.

The new SEMA Show feature comes as consumer demand for, and OEM offerings of, ADAS increases. By bringing together industry experts, partners and suppliers, Showgoers can network and learn how vehicle modifications impact ADAS functionality. Showgoers can also see firsthand where a vehicle’s ADAS sensors are, how they work and how they are impacted by modifications.

“The SEMA Show ADAS Showcase is designed to help businesses stay in front of the technology and understand where the opportunities are,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “This is the ideal time to interact and speak directly with leading providers and experts in the ADAS space. It’s also a valuable opportunity to get hands-on experience with some of the tools and equipment, and witness live mock demonstrations.”

Visitors can meet with ADAS recalibration suppliers (Airpro, Autel, Burke Porter, Hunter and John Bean/Snap-on), and with ADAS service providers (Alldata, AsTech by Repairify, AutoTechcelerators, CarADAS, i-Car, OpusIVS and Transportation Research Center). On display is a lowered car that has been modified.

Demonstrations are taking place on a lifted truck to show what equipment is needed in an actual aftermarket collision and service environment.

Showgoers can also learn about the 5,000-sq.-ft. ADAS Technology Center, locating within the SEMA Garage in Detroit. With two sophisticated labs, the ADAS Technology Center is at the forefront of research and testing. Showgoers can learn about the center’s data-driven approach to dynamic testing, which has a precise level of accuracy to within millimeters and milliseconds. The SEMA Garage in Detroit opened in August 2022. While the facility is the second SEMA Garage, it is a first for SEMA in terms of ADAS testing.

“We are forging new ground with the ADAS Center at the SEMA Garage in Detroit,” said Ben Kaminsky, SEMA Garage Detroit general manager. “While SEMA is a leader in performance product emissions testing, we are just getting started with ADAS. The SEMA Garage in Detroit will offer access to static and dynamic testing for ADAS so that aftermarket parts manufacturers will be able to help troubleshoot and develop products for any make and model vehicle, regardless of the ADAS features on it.”

Kaminsky and the SEMA Garage staff from Detroit are on hand to explain the capabilities of the facility. Live education sessions related to ADAS will also be taking place throughout the week. To learn more, visit www.semashow.com.

Kevin Hart’s Muscle Car Crew entertained Showgoers with expanded stories about their inaugural television series and what it’s been like to immerse themselves into the car culture. As keynote speakers on the SEMA Show’s opening day, cast members joined television personality Chris Jacobs at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 1, at the Paradise Event Center.

Members of Kevin Hart’s Muscle Car Crew entertained Showgoers with expanded stories about their inaugural television series and what it’s been like to immerse themselves into the car culture.

With Jacobs hosting the interview, the discussion tapped into the unique passion that unites the automotive industry. Like the MotorTrend series that chronicled their experience, the SEMA Show keynote address was about having a good time and making connections.

“Kevin Hart’s Muscle Car Crew represents SEMA’s membership and the tremendous enthusiasm we all have for this culture,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA director of education. “Their story is driven by passion and a deep love for all things automotive.” 

The keynote address was part of a new component of the 2022 SEMA Show Education Program. Five keynote addresses will be held during the week, with each keynote address featuring iconic industry personalities who will educate while entertaining. Speakers include car enthusiasts, thought leaders, innovators and entertainers who bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to help elevate and strengthen attendees’ business and personal growth strategies.

Legendary NFL running back Emmitt Smith, who became a NASCAR Xfinity Series team co-owner last summer, anchors the week as the keynote speaker for Friday, November 4. Other keynotes will be announced at a later date.

For details about the SEMA Show Education Program and a complete schedule of seminars available, visit www.semashow.com.

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) All-Female Build project, a Ford Bronco 4-door Wildtrak made its debut at the 2022 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Tuesday, November 1.

With support from the entire community, women volunteers ranging in ages and skill sets wrenched on the vehicle, and volunteers installed the Bronco’s roof and roof-top tent, R&R active shutter grille, Oracle headlights and taillights, AMP running boards, Ford roof rack, Yakima platform rack, Baja Forged rear bumper, Ford Lit Bronco grille and readjusted components and parts that weren’t working together.

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) All-Female Build project, a Ford Bronco 4-door Wildtrak, was unveiled on Tuesday, November 1, at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas. 

“It was very much a hands-on learning experience, and the team was eager to take on these challenges, including mocking up bumper fitment plates from cardboard in order to fabricate the actual plates,” said Nicole Bradle, SBN liaison. “The build continues to foster growth and community, not only among the volunteers but also between organizations.”

Cleaning the underside of the vehicle, learning how to wire and install headlights with guidance from Oracle Tech, and sourcing parts when things were broken or missing are also among the list of contributions from the volunteers. Female-owned company MRT assisted the team in fabricating and painting the bumper plates and guided the volunteers through the process.  

“The collaboration truly represents the spirit of the build,” added Cathy Clark, SBN chair. “This project was a chance to spotlight women in the automotive aftermarket industry and the ways in which they come together and offer support to each other.”

The SBN Bronco is on display at the SEMA Show in West Hall booth #57061.