News | Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA)

Chevrolet Debuts Mid-Engine Corvette C8.R, Stingray, E-10 Concept Truck at 2019 SEMA Show Reveal

Wed, 11/06/2019 - 13:30

By SEMA Editors

The new C8.R Corvette racer will be powered by a 5.5L V-8 capable of producing 500 hp and 480 lb.-ft. of torque.

The new C8 is powered by a next-generation 6.2L small-block LT2 V-8—visible through a rear-hatch window—that’s capable of producing 495 hp and 470 lb.-ft. of torque, and a claimed 0–60mph time of 2.9 sec. and top speed of 194 mph.

Combining a ’62 C-10 pickup with a Bolt-powered Connect & Cruise concept crate propulsion package, the E-10 is said to produce 450 hp and a 0–60mph time in the 13-second range.

Chevrolet introduced the new mid-engine Corvette race car, known as the C8.R, Monday November 4, at the 2019 SEMA Show Reveal. Based off the production ’20 Corvette Stingray, the C8.R will be the first mid-engine Corvette to compete in IMSA’s GTLM class and the first clean-sheet race car design since the C5.R debuted in 1999. It will make its racing debut at the Rolex 24 at Daytona, January 25, 2020.

The TC8.R shares the highest percentage of parts between the production and race car than any previous generation. In compliance with IMSA engine displacement rules, the C8.R will feature a 5.5L naturally aspirated V8 engine, producing 500 hp and 480 ft.-lb. of torque. A new compact Xtrac six-speed sequential gearbox was developed in order to provide room at the rear of the C8.R to package a race-car specific diffuser. The C8.R utilizes a production ’20 Stingray chassis structure that’s been modified to meet race series requirements and will ride on 18-in. Michelin Pilot Sport GT competition tires.

The No. 4 race car features a new silver livery, inspired by the color of iconic Corvette concepts, such as the ’73 Chevrolet Aerovette and ’59 Corvette Stingray Racer that pushed the envelope both in design and on-track performance. This car also features yellow accents. It will be joined by the No. 3 race car in a yellow color scheme with silver accents that continue the lineage of the successful GTLM racing Corvettes.

Also at the SEMA New Vehicle Reveal, Chevrolet introduced the ’20 mid-engine Corvette Stingray, which is virtually all new, with only one part carried over from the previous model.

The new C8 is powered by a next-generation 6.2L small-block LT2 V-8—visible through a rear-hatch window—that’s capable of producing 495 hp and 470 lb.-ft. of torque, and a claimed 0–60mph time of 2.9 sec. and top speed of 194 mph. It’s backed by an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and the powertrain rides within a body structure that’s said to be 10% more rigid that the previous generation. The G8 rides on 19-in. front and 20-in. rear wheels, and the Z51 Performance Package includes Brembo brakes and an electronic limited-slip (ELSD).

The new C8 sports a host of leading-edge technology and convenience features. A Drive Mode Selector allows the operator to electronically calibrate up to 12 performance variables to tailor the vehicle’s ride and handling characteristics to suit the demands of the road. My Mode and Z-Mode features allow the operator to save settings between drives. The “digital driver” Performance Data Recorder (PDR) provide a 1080p recording of each drive. An available Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 damping system “reads” the road every millisecond and adapts vehicle damping in as little as 10–15 milliseconds. The two-piece convertible hardtop can activate at speeds up to 30 mph using six electric motors. A Bose premium 10-speaker audio system is standard, as are eight-way power GT1 seats.

In addition, Chevrolet introduced the all-electric E-10 concept pickup. Combining a ’62 C-10 pickup with a Bolt-powered Connect & Cruise concept crate propulsion package, the E-10 is said to produce 450 hp and a 0–60mph time in the 13-second range. The E-10’s overall cruising range is said to be comparable to the Bolt EV’s.

The E-10’s Connect & Cruise concept propulsion system is composed of a double stack of Chevrolet Performance electric crate motors (eCrate), two 400V batteries and a production 4L75-E automatic transmission. The double-stack motor replaces the truck’s original gas engine in the engine bay, and power to the motors comes from the pair of independent Chevrolet Bolt EV power electronics and two production Bolt EV battery packs. Mounted in the truck’s bed, each provides 60 kWh of usable energy under a hard tonneau cover. According to GM, the E-10 went from a concept to a running vehicle in only 18 weeks. The E-10 has a sound emulator with three speakers to simulate an induction sound in the front, and two banks of a V8 engine in the back. The driver can select one of five modes on the emulator, including LS7 Z28 track tuning, LS7 Z28 touring turning, or a V8 engine. The vehicle also features a silent mode.

Overlanding Display in Performance Pavilion Houses Off-Road Adventure Vehicles

Wed, 11/06/2019 - 13:24

By SEMA Editors

Reflecting the growing popularity of the overlanding lifestyle, the SEMA Overland Experience features dozens of vehicles outfitted for exploration and survival in off-the-grid environs.

Buyers at the 2019 SEMA Show can see products and vehicles specifically for overlanding in the all-new SEMA Overland Experience area. The dedicated section in the Performance Pavilion opened Tuesday, November 5, and featuring dozens of customized vehicles with portable kitchen systems, fully popped-out tents and sunshades. The vehicles are all outfitted for long-term backcountry exploration and survival in off-the-grid conditions. Also in the area, experts are sharing information and discussing trends, business opportunities and challenges in the overlanding market.

“The new Overland Experience showcases a growing trend in the market,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “With overlanding products, vehicles and education displayed in a centralized location, buyers will gain a comprehensive understanding of what the market entails and how they can build overlanding into their businesses.”

With many similarities and connections to off-roading, overlanding products are common at the SEMA Show. The phenomenon has roots in countries including Australia and South Africa and certain parts of South America, and has taken off in the United States during the past decade.

Overlanding Display in Performance Pavilion Houses Off-Road Adventure Vehicles

Wed, 11/06/2019 - 13:24

By SEMA Editors

Reflecting the growing popularity of the overlanding lifestyle, the SEMA Overland Experience features dozens of vehicles outfitted for exploration and survival in off-the-grid environs.

Buyers at the 2019 SEMA Show can see products and vehicles specifically for overlanding in the all-new SEMA Overland Experience area. The dedicated section in the Performance Pavilion opened Tuesday, November 5, and featuring dozens of customized vehicles with portable kitchen systems, fully popped-out tents and sunshades. The vehicles are all outfitted for long-term backcountry exploration and survival in off-the-grid conditions. Also in the area, experts are sharing information and discussing trends, business opportunities and challenges in the overlanding market.

“The new Overland Experience showcases a growing trend in the market,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “With overlanding products, vehicles and education displayed in a centralized location, buyers will gain a comprehensive understanding of what the market entails and how they can build overlanding into their businesses.”

With many similarities and connections to off-roading, overlanding products are common at the SEMA Show. The phenomenon has roots in countries including Australia and South Africa and certain parts of South America, and has taken off in the United States during the past decade.

Ford, SEMA Garage Restore, Upgrade Jay Leno’s ’68 Bronco

Wed, 11/06/2019 - 13:11

By SEMA Editors

A ’68 Ford Bronco wagon was left for Jay Leno as a joke, arranged by fellow late-night TV host Craig Ferguson to be parked in Leno’s spot on the eve of his last taping. Ferguson was unaware of the iconic status of the Bronco—and had no idea how highly sought-after these models are. But long-time car collector Leno knew. He happily accepted the gift, which ended up sitting in his garage unrestored until recently.

The effort to restore the vehicle finally materialized early this year with Ford Performance and the SEMA Garage leading a collaborative team to give it new life.

The upfitted and newly restored ’68 Bronco is now on display at the 2019 SEMA Show.

Ford Performance worked with some of the industry’s best restoration professionals to bring the Bronco back to its former glory. The Bronco has been outfitted with the heart of the all-new Mustang Shelby GT500—the most-powerful street-legal Ford ever.

Ford Performance engaged the expertise of noted Bronco licensee Kincer Chassis to help restore the vehicle. Kincer built the chassis and installed the powertrain, including the aforementioned Ford Performance 5.2L supercharged V8 engine.

Dennis Carpenter of Ford Restoration Parts provided body panels, while the SEMA Garage contributed its technical expertise in computer-aided design, 3D printing and calibration work. LGE-CTS Motorsports revived the body with new sheet metal, custom body mods, paint and final assembly.

“Bronco was an iconic vehicle that was many things to many people,” said Leno, now host of “Jay Leno’s Garage” on CNBC. “The Bronco was bought to use on the farm or to take your date to the prom and was comfortable in any of these environments. The idea of having a classic Bronco upgraded with modern handling, performance and braking really makes it the best of both worlds.”

The ’68 Bronco wagon will be seen on an upcoming episode of “Jay Leno’s Garage” on CNBC and will be showcased in detail on “Jay Leno’s Garage” on YouTube.

A stellar team of outfitters and tuners incorporated all of these custom pieces into restoring Leno’s ’68 Ford Bronco:

Powertrain

Ford Performance 5.2L supercharged V8 engine
TR-4050 five-speed Silver Sport transmission by TREMEC, with Quickdraw bellhousing and STX shifter assembly
Heavy-duty 4WD drivetrain
Advance Adapters Atlas II transfer case
Specialty components by Krawlers Edge, including a custom airbox, exhaust fabrication, stainless-steel gas tank and coolant package
Radiator and supercharger cooler by Brice Thomas
Borla mufflers
Vibrant Performance exhaust components, hoses and fittings
Aeromotive fuel filter
II Much fuel vent
Engine oil cooler by Derale Performance
Stage 8 locking header bolts
Lifeline Batteries
Full Throttle Kustomz Performance tuning and diagnostics

Chassis

Kincer Chassis Adventure Series coil-over chassis
Wilwood disc brakes and master cylinders
Fox 2.0 factory race series coil-over shocks and steering stabilizer
John’s Industries third members with Eaton Detroit Truetrac differentials and gearing
Carolina Driveline driveshafts
Dutchman Motorsports axle shafts
Flaming River steering column
Tuff Stuff power steering pump
Warn locking hubs
Gaskets by Lube Locker
BrakeQuip brake lines
Axle seals by Seals-It
Painless Performance Products wiring harness

Wheels and Tires

18x9-in. John R steel wheels by Detroit Steel Wheels
Rugged Trail T/A 275/65-18 tires by BFGoodrich

Exterior

Installation of new sheet metal, custom body modification and final assembly by LGE-CTS Motorsports
Custom “Tonight Blue” Envirobase paint supplied by PPG Industries, applied by LGE-CTS Motorsports
Dennis Carpenter Ford Restoration Parts body panels, trim and accessories
AMP Research side step
STRATASYS 3-D printed grille insert molded into Dennis Carpenter sheet metal grille by LGE-CTS Motorsports
Kaseser Air Compressors

Interior

Sony audio with Scosche enhancements
Eagle Ottawa genuine leather with custom perforation installed by Rogelio’s Upholstery
Dakota Digital gauges