Welcome to the SEMA Show, now through November 3 in Las Vegas! Yesterday, an estimated 160,000 buyers, influencers, media members and automotive professionals filled the halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center to seek aisles of innovations and attend world-class events and activations, like new products and trends from the Show floor (read the SEMA News recap here); the innovative SEMA FutureTech Studio (read the SEMA News recap here); and member-supporting events (read the SEMA News recap here).

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

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA has announced the Top 12 builders in the 2023 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers competition. These dozen builders represent an elite group of individuals who have demonstrated extreme talent, creativity and craftsmanship in modifying cars, trucks and SUVs.

Be sure to celebrate these builders during today's SEMA Battle of the Builders Top 4 Announcement, 3:00 p.m. PDT at North Hall, N10967 and during the special SEMA Battle of the Builders Winner Announcement, Friday, November 3, 3:30 p.m. PDT on Silver Drive.

The 2023 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Top 12 are (by category):

HOT ROD/HOT ROD TRUCK

Jonathan Goolsby--'69 Ford Mustang
Andy Leach--'60 Buick Invicta Custom
Tyler Nelson--'68 Chevrolet Camaro

SPORT COMPACT/IMPORT PERFORMANCE

Allen Bischofberger--'90 Porsche 911/964
Jordan Henke--'87 Merkur XR4TI
Dom Tucci--'89 Mercedes-Benz 190E 

OFF-ROAD

Jared Hancock--'78 Jeep Cherokee Chief S
Andy Leach--'68 Jeep Wagoneer
Cort Sessions--'70 Travel All

YOUNG GUNS

Ryan Dyer--'53 Ford F100
Carson Hendershott--'98 Chevrolet C1500
Charles D. Spencer--'69 Chevrolet C10

By Kenny Wright

SEMA is proud to present "A Fireside Chat with Legendary Race Car Driver and DEI Ambassador for Formula One, Willy T. Ribbs, and Beth Paretta of Paretta Autosport," Thursday, November 2, 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. PDT, North Hall, N258. This lively session is one of the highlights of the Main Stage at the 2023 SEMA Show, now through November 3 in Las Vegas. Add to your SEMA Show planner here. 

Join former F1 racer Willy T. Ribbs and female motorsports advocate Beth Paretta during the Fireside Chat on Thursday, November 2.

Willy T. Ribbs is a legendary race car driver who defied barriers and made history in the world of motorsports. On Thursday, November 2, at the SEMA Show Main Stage, West Hall, he will be joined by moderator Beth Paretta during a special fireside-style chat featuring an in-depth and personal look into the life of an American racecar champion, innovator and living legend, along with insights and stories that can only be told by Ribbs himself.

Join Ribbs as he recounts his incredible life story as a pioneer in racing, being the first Black driver to qualify for the legendary Indianapolis 500 and win a major professional race in the United States; driving a Formula One racecar; and in 2022, being named Formula One ambassador for diversity and inclusion. Through his courage and resilience, Ribbs shattered barriers and paved the way for generations of racecar drivers, forever changing the landscape of motorsports.

Today, Ribbs works tirelessly with organizations like Formula One, advocating for diversity and inclusion in motorsports. Recently, he was also the subject of a feature-length biographical documentary film, "UPPITY: The Willy T. Ribbs Story." 

Paretta is the CEO and team principal of Paretta Autosport, the first woman-owned, woman-driven and woman-forward team in IndyCar history. Prior to launching the team, Paretta held leadership roles across operations, marketing and finance at Volkswagen Group, Aston Martin and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). Paretta is also a board member of the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, the global Marketing Delegate for the FIA Women in Motorsport Commission, and was named an Industry Influencer by the Automotive Hall of Fame in 2023.

The can't-miss "Fireside Chat with Legendary Race Car Driver and DEI Ambassador for Formula One, Willy T. Ribbs, and Beth Paretta of Paretta Autosport" is available to all SEMA Show attendees. 

Event Info

A Fireside Chat With Willy T. Ribbs and Beth Paretta
Thursday, November 2 
11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. PDT
North Hall, N258
Add to your SEMA Show planner here. 

By Kenny Wright and Mike Imlay

The SEMA FutureTech Studio in Central Hall is seeing high levels of foot traffic at the 2023 SEMA Show, now through November 3 in Las Vegas. This exclusive SEMA Show feature allows attendees to learn about what the future of vehicle propulsion looks like with the newest technology and innovations in alternate fuels and electric vehicles (EVs). 

Buyer Chad Hrencecin of Electrified Garage found the SEMA FutureTech Studio to be especially helpful for his Ocala, Florida-based EV repair garage. "A lot of people are realizing [EV and alternate fuels] are not going away. We've been working with Legacy EV, Torque Trends and a lot of companies that are here to make new conversions and one-off projects," said Hrencecin, who also told us he's an off-road enthusiast. "I'm an off-roader guy, and there's this EV conversion over here, the sand rail, with a VW off-road chassis with an EV conversion on it. I haven't seen anything like that before." 

Trulers' "Bugjuiced" VW sandrail features a 10-kW system featuring 15A/110V overnight charging and approximately a 100-mile range.

FutureTech Studio exhibitor Lightship RV of Boulder, Colorado, was thrilled to have its offerings on display in the exclusive Show floor feature.

"We love being in the FutureTech area. We've found a lot of people are really interested in this area, and it's good because people see what's new and innovative in the space," said Amanda Winther of Lightship RV, Boulder, Colorado, which is exhibiting its all-electric recreation vehicle (RV) in the FutureTech Studio.

"We've been to other shows for our market, but [the SEMA Show] is the biggest and a dream come true for us to be here with our RV," said Ben Parker of Lightship RV in Boulder, Colorado. "We start production and go to market in 2024, so being at the SEMA Show now is a huge deal for us."

This innovative build by eFlexPro features a fully automatic E85 flex fuel conversion system, which benefits include an increase in up to 20% power gains over pump gas. 

The SEMA FutureTech Studio is part of the new EV and Future Propulsion section (find it on the SEMA Show floorplan here) that has evolved from the popular SEMA Electrified exhibit in years prior.

The immersive Show environment features parts and equipment that cater to the new technology and products, as well as vehicles that highlight how these are employed. 

"This is our first time here at the SEMA Show and so far, it's been great. This year, the Show has really done a lot more to promote the EV community, and it feels good to be here," said Chris Hazell of Legacy EV, a FutureTech exhibitor.

The exhibit also includes a SEMA Education stage, named FutureTech LIVE, where industry leaders discuss different propulsion technology, including EV, hybrid, hydrogen, alternative fuels and other technological advancements. 

Among the FutureTech Studio highlights is a revolutionary, full-electric RV by Lightship RV. The solar-powered build impressed attendees with its clean, stylish and spacious interior and is something you have to see in person!

Find the SEMA FutureTech Studio on the SEMA Show floorplan here.

By SEMA News Editors

On Thursday, November 2, 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. PDT, West Hall, W326, the SEMA Main Stage Experience welcomes Tim Tebow for his keynote, "Living a Life of Significance." Add to your SEMA Show Planner here. 

Tebow is best known as a two-time national champion, Heisman Trophy winner, first-round NFL draft pick and a former professional baseball player, but he is also the poster of success as an entrepreneur and as The New York Times best-selling author. Tebow is perhaps most passionate about his work with the Tim Tebow Foundation (TTF), which has a mission to bring faith, hope and love to those needing a brighter day in their darkest hour of need. 

During the 2023 SEMA Show Main Stage Experience, Tebow will share inspirational stories about how he became the success he is today. This is one keynote that you don't want to miss!

2023 SEMA Show Mainstage Experience

"Living a Life of Significance" by Tim Tebow
Thursday, November 2, 1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. PDT
West Hall, W326
Add to your SEMA Show Planner here.

By Kenny Wright

What will auto fuel and power sources look like in the future? How soon will these changes happen? What are the challenges faced when developing and distributing alternative fuel? Learn the answers to these and many more topics at the SEMA Show's all-new Future of Automotive Fuel Technology panel in the North Hall, Room N258, Thursday, November 2, 3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. PDT. Add to your SEMA Show planner here.

Engage with global industry leaders and subject-matter experts as they reveal details on the application, benefits and integration of alternative fuels, plus the practical and scalable solutions that can fast-track the decarbonization process through these technologies.

The moderator for this event will be Margaret Hoover, political commentator, strategist, and host of PBS' Firing Line with Margaret Hoover. Featured panelists will include:

This group of experts will discuss alternative fuels and their manufacturing processes; the application of alternative fuels in the automotive industry; emerging technologies and decarbonization targets; and the infrastructure and policies needed for mass adaptation. 

Learn about the challenges--and solutions!--behind developing, practicing and scaling a renewable alternative fuel. The first-ever Future of Automotive Fuel Technology panel will be an enlightening and thought-provoking event, so register now and don't miss out on this opportunity to glimpse the future of automotive fuel technology.

Event Info:

The Future of Automotive Fuel Technology
Thursday, November 2, 3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. PDT
North Hall–N258
Add to your SEMA Show planner here.

By Kenny Wright and Laura Pitts

The 2023 SEMA Show continues to wow attendees with aisles and aisles of the latest specialty-equipment aftermarket innovations alongside a robust schedule of educational and networking events, now through November 3 in Las Vegas. Following is a wrap-up of trends spotted on the SEMA Show floor; be sure to check out the SEMA Education list of sessions--like the Main Stage Experience headlined by Tim Tebow and the Future of Automotive Fuel Technology panel--here.

Attendees Curious About Electric Vehicle (EV) Conversion Products in the New Product Showcase

As the world's largest display of new automotive products and technology, the SEMA Show New Product Showcase did not disappoint buyers, media members, influencers and related automotive professionals with hundreds of offerings across 18 distinct product categories. Trending this year are EV conversion-supporting products, with attendees flocking to learn more about how these parts can help upgrade their vehicles or business offerings.

One product, the BCLD battery and coolant leak detector by Redline Detection, caught several buyers' eyes as the only EV test technology that can pinpoint leaks for fast repair and for its ability to meet all OEM warranty and safety standards.

Redline Detector's BCLD battery and coolant leak detector is among buyer-favorite offerings in the 2023 SEMA Show New Product Showcase.

Redline Detector's BCLD battery and coolant leak detector was called "super cool," by buyer Angel Medina of VP Fleet Services, a repair garage in Texas City, Texas. "I mean, all this EV stuff is so new, but it's great to know what's current. So the New Product Showcase is always a cool place to visit at the SEMA Show," he said.

Medina's sentiments were echoed by buyer Brian Wenk, who said, "The [BCLD battery and coolant leak detector] is pretty cool. I see a lot of new products all the time... but this is unheard of, so I had to check it out," said Wenk of Optimized Distribution Partners, a tools and equipment provider in Commerce City, Colorado.

Wide Variety of Custom Collision Repair Training Sessions Set Attendees Up for Success, Sessions Still Open for Thursday

Several SEMA partners presented dedicated events and seminars to further enhance the professional careers of attendees during the 2023 SEMA Show, which features one of the most education-rich schedules in recent years. 

Registration is still open for the SCRS OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit, Thursday, November 2.

For example, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will host its OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit, Thursday, November 2, 9:00 a.m. PDT through 1:00 p.m. PDT.

The Summit features three distinct sessions:

• Session I: Understanding OEM Insurance, 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. PDT.
• Session II: North American Automotive Material Outlook and Implications to Collision Repair, 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. PDT.
• Session III: Research and Validation of Calibration Solutions, 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. PDT.

Visit bit.ly/RDE2023 to register online for the OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit, which is just a sample of the many SCRS-backed events that took place during the 2023 SEMA Show Week, topics that covered employee retention, advanced repair planning, refinishing processes, marketing and related repairer-driven sessions. 

In addition, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) has teamed up with SEMA to provide I-CAR Collision Repair Training sessions that took place during the SEMA Show Week, with multiple sessions available to maximize attendees' opportunities to join.

I-CAR Collision Repair Training sessions, which will take place on Thursday, November 2, features hands-on MIG-welding techniques and best practices.

Thursday's lineup of seminars includes topics on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), MIG-welding technology and applications, EV overview and considerations and "color theory" applications for vehicles. Register for these events here.

Tire Industry Association Provides Product-Specific Technical Sessions 

The Tire Industry Association (TIA) has presented a lineup of educational sessions during the 2023 Show, with topics on tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), which have been a standard on new cars for 15 years but challenges associated with servicing these systems prevail to this day. For this session, TIA partnered with ATEQ TPMS Tools, Bartec USA and Schrader TPMS Solutions to create a structured Q&A discussion on real-world scenarios.

TIA sessions at the 2023 SEMA Show cover the gamut of tire-related topics, including safety, repair, tire pressure, selling tires and wheel installation.

Additional 2023 seminars covered service truck driver safety, how to be a successful tire dealer, wheel installation and retention and total truck tire repair with the Tread Rubber and Tire Repair Materials Manufacturers' Group (TRMG).

Shell Performance Unbound Educates Industry Members on Latest Fuel Technology With Outdoor Activation

Shell invites SEMA Show participants to the Shell Performance Unbound location in the Silver Lot (outside of Central Hall), where its scientists are on hand, explaining the science and key details behind its latest fuel technology, including its new and improved premium gasoline, which removes up to 100% of performance-robbing deposits to rejuvenate an engine's performance.

"We're excited to be here at the SEMA Show, so that we can tell everyone in the industry about our latest fuel technology," said Shelley O'Brien of Shell. 

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show's "Bessie," the AI-powered chatbot, complements SEMAShow.com and the SEMA Show mobile app, plus all the on-site collateral and signage, as the best way to maximize your time and navigate the SEMA Show, now through November 3, in Las Vegas.

Chatting with Bessie is easy: just send a text to 833-338-3101, download the SEMA Show mobile app, visit SEMAShow.com or look for signage around the SEMA Show campus.

Chatting with Bessie is easy: just send a text to 833-338-3101, download the SEMA Show mobile app, visit SEMAShow.com or look for signage around the SEMA Show campus to access pertinent information right at your fingertips, anytime, anywhere. QR codes are also placed around the Show, providing convenient access. 

The fun part is that the chatbot learns as it develops, so have fun exploring the SEMA Show just by chatting. Get to know Bessie (start by asking her name!) and test your knowledge of the SEMA Show by asking relevant questions. If you stump the chatbot, the AI technology powering Bessie will expand its expertise based on the questions that our global community is asking the most.

Become a SEMA Show pro and get to know Bessie by texting 833-338-3101 today!

Access additional Show resources below:

• 2023 SEMA Show floorplan.
• 2023 SEMA Show schedule of events.
• SEMA Show Education sessions.
• SEMA special events.
• SEMA Show/Vegas transportation information.
• Map of the Las Vegas Monorail. (Purchase discounted tickets just for 2023 SEMA Showgoers, only available online at tix.lvmonorail.com/SEMA23).

By Ashley Reyes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Insights Into the Evolution of Restoration, Powered by ARMO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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