By SEMA News Editors

Nearly a year since Honda confirmed the return of the Prelude, SEMA News sources spotted a prototype of the sports car testing in Germany.

These early images of the new Honda Prelude reveal that Honda has made significant progress beyond the concept car it showcased last spring. The test units are now at its German headquarters, and they're showing more details than typically seen in the early stages of development.

While the silhouette differs from the original concept model, the Prelude retains the sleek, curved roofline and a sharp tail drop. A large rear window accentuates the elegant, coupe-like profile. Comparing this prototype with the spring's Prelude concept, it's clear that Honda has stayed true to the design.

The headlights are the same, as is the grille with its thin slats, giving the front end a sharper, more aerodynamic look. The shapes of the front bumper and cooling vents are also unchanged and the full-width rear lights maintain the concept's design.

The bulging wheel arches, especially at the rear and the open vents in the front fenders are carried over from the concept, reinforcing the sporty nature of this new model, which notably won't be electric. A peek beneath the rear bumper shows part of the exhaust system.

The new Honda Prelude is set to launch in mid-2026, with sales starting in the latter half of the year. It will feature a hybrid powertrain, combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor integrated into the automatic transmission, delivering more than 200 hp.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization's PRO Cup Challenge is returning to the 2024 SEMA Show with six new vehicle builds that will showcase the talents of automotive restylers.     

Now in its fifth year, the competition challenges automotive restylers to develop an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that is marketable, profitable and easy to replicate. The goal of the program is to attract new car owners to accessorize their vehicles and show fellow restylers, dealers and accessory manufacturers the value of offering marketable packages. 

The six PRO Cup Challenge finalists will have their vehicle displayed in the PRO booth (#50203 in the West Hall) during the week of the SEMA Show. Judges will select a PRO Cup Challenge winner based on the vehicle's marketability, ease of production, creativity and profitability. Additionally, SEMA Showgoers are invited to visit the builds on-site and scan a QR code to vote for the winner of the People's Choice award.

This year's PRO Cup Challenge competitors are:  

• Auto Trim Design of Utah, '24 Hyundai Santa Fe                
• Auto Trim Restyling, '24 Toyota Land Cruiser  
• Automotive Concepts, '24 Chevrolet Silverado   
• Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh LLC, '24 Toyota RAV4 XLE Hybrid  
• Keystone Styling, '24 Ford F-150 
• MARS of Billings, '24 Ford Bronco   

SEMA Showgoers have until 2:00 p.m. PST on Wednesday, November 6, to submit their People's Choice votes in the PRO booth. The PRO Cup Challenge and People's Choice award winners will be announced during the PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 6, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. PST in the PRO booth. 

"The SEMA Show is all about discovering new products, vehicle trends, and ideas that can take businesses and careers to new levels," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "We look forward to seeing restylers use the latest parts and accessories to showcase their skills and creativity."

To learn more about the PRO Cup Challenge, visit sema.org/pro-cup-challenge. To learn more about PRO, visit sema.org/pro. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization's PRO Cup Challenge is returning to the 2024 SEMA Show with six new vehicle builds that will showcase the talents of automotive restylers.     

Now in its fifth year, the competition challenges automotive restylers to develop an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that is marketable, profitable and easy to replicate. The goal of the program is to attract new car owners to accessorize their vehicles and show fellow restylers, dealers and accessory manufacturers the value of offering marketable packages. 

The six PRO Cup Challenge finalists will have their vehicle displayed in the PRO booth (#50203 in the West Hall) during the week of the SEMA Show. Judges will select a PRO Cup Challenge winner based on the vehicle's marketability, ease of production, creativity and profitability. Additionally, SEMA Showgoers are invited to visit the builds on-site and scan a QR code to vote for the winner of the People's Choice award.

This year's PRO Cup Challenge competitors are:  

• Auto Trim Design of Utah, '24 Hyundai Santa Fe                
• Auto Trim Restyling, '24 Toyota Land Cruiser  
• Automotive Concepts, '24 Chevrolet Silverado   
• Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh LLC, '24 Toyota RAV4 XLE Hybrid  
• Keystone Styling, '24 Ford F-150 
• MARS of Billings, '24 Ford Bronco   

SEMA Showgoers have until 2:00 p.m. PST on Wednesday, November 6, to submit their People's Choice votes in the PRO booth. The PRO Cup Challenge and People's Choice award winners will be announced during the PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 6, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. PST in the PRO booth. 

"The SEMA Show is all about discovering new products, vehicle trends, and ideas that can take businesses and careers to new levels," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "We look forward to seeing restylers use the latest parts and accessories to showcase their skills and creativity."

To learn more about the PRO Cup Challenge, visit sema.org/pro-cup-challenge. To learn more about PRO, visit sema.org/pro. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named ORACLE Lighting as the council's newest member company. Get to know their story in the SEMA News interview with Justin Hartenstein, ORACLE Lighting's founder, below. 

SEMA News: Tell us the story of ORACLE Lighting. How did the company start?  

Justin Hartenstein: I started Oracle Lighting in my garage back in 1999 at just 17 years old. As a true enthusiast, I began by developing custom lighting solutions for my own personal project vehicles. These innovative lighting products became popular when photos were posted to online message boards and other enthusiasts just had to have them. This consumer demand created organic growth and sales, which caused a company to naturally form around these innovative products. 

SN: What's going on these days? What projects are you most excited about? 

JH: Today, Oracle Lighting is considered one of the leaders in innovative, aftermarket automotive lighting accessories and has grown to employ more than 30 full-time team members. In 2021, Oracle received the SEMA Manufacturer of the Year Award, the SEMA YEN Vanguard Award and the SEMA Data Excellence Award. With more than 10,000 innovative product SKUs, Oracle Lighting is proud to offer our resellers the most comprehensive lighting line in the automotive industry. 

SN: What's the best piece of advice you have for professionals getting started in the aftermarket? 

JH: If you are an enthusiast just getting started in the aftermarket, be sure to remember that love for automobiles that drew you to this industry in the first place. As we become more and more focused on the business side, it is easy to lose that passion that made us want to work in this industry in the first place. Little reminders of what a privilege it is to do a job I love in an industry I am truly passionate about gives me gratitude and motivation to continue to excel every day. 

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates. 

By SEMA News Editors

Joe Elmore, host of automotive television shows "Horsepower TV" and "Muscle Cars," passed away earlier this year. He was 80 years old.

An Arkansas native, Elmore moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in 1985, where he began working for the Nashville Network before his rise to prominence in the automotive world began with "Horsepower TV."

Additionally, he served as host of "Tennessee Crossroads," a magazine-style travel show that airs on stations across Tennessee and the Southeast.

For more on Elmore, including a statement from POWERNATION, click here.

By SEMA News Editors

Get ready for SEMA Fest 2024 and the Friday Enthusiast Experience, Friday, November 8, on the SEMA Show Campus. Get your tickets now to join the ultimate car culture celebration featuring a packed concert lineup and thrilling automotive and action sports demonstrations from Nitro Circus and more.

Click HERE to purchase tickets.

Fans of speed, power and performance who attend SEMA Fest will experience:  

• Nitro Circus will perform an electrifying demonstration featuring renowned freestyle motocross (FMX) athletes Keith Sayers, Luke Dolin, Willie Elam, Kieran Ursua and more, who are set to push the boundaries of what's possible in action sports. 
• Shell Performance Unbound--experience the thrill of driving a race car in a Shell race simulator and enter to win a drifting experience! 
• The Best of the SEMA Show! Purchase a Friday Enthusiast Experience ticket and enjoy Battle of the Builders, Overland Experience, Ride With Us and much more! 

This event is packed with excitement for adrenaline junkies and music lovers alike. Whether you're watching mind-blowing tricks or rocking out to your favorite tunes from Cage the Elephant, SUBLIME, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey, it's all happening in one day--and you won't want to miss it. 

Bundle tickets are selling fast, so grab yours now to secure your spot at the ultimate celebration of speed, power and performance! 

Purchase your tickets now and find out more information at semashow.com.

By SEMA News Editors

Get ready for SEMA Fest 2024 and the Friday Enthusiast Experience, Friday, November 8, on the SEMA Show Campus. Get your tickets now to join the ultimate car culture celebration featuring a packed concert lineup and thrilling automotive and action sports demonstrations from Nitro Circus and more.

Click HERE to purchase tickets.

Fans of speed, power and performance who attend SEMA Fest will experience:  

• Nitro Circus will perform an electrifying demonstration featuring renowned freestyle motocross (FMX) athletes Keith Sayers, Luke Dolin, Willie Elam, Kieran Ursua and more, who are set to push the boundaries of what's possible in action sports. 
• Shell Performance Unbound--experience the thrill of driving a race car in a Shell race simulator and enter to win a drifting experience! 
• The Best of the SEMA Show! Purchase a Friday Enthusiast Experience ticket and enjoy Battle of the Builders, Overland Experience, Ride With Us and much more! 

This event is packed with excitement for adrenaline junkies and music lovers alike. Whether you're watching mind-blowing tricks or rocking out to your favorite tunes from Cage the Elephant, SUBLIME, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey, it's all happening in one day--and you won't want to miss it. 

Bundle tickets are selling fast, so grab yours now to secure your spot at the ultimate celebration of speed, power and performance! 

Purchase your tickets now and find out more information at semashow.com.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Cruise returns for 2024!

See some of the most creative and innovative vehicles on the planet as they roll out from the SEMA Show campus after the final day of the SEMA Show, Friday, November 8, at 4:00 p.m. PST.

Cars will begin parading out of the Las Convention Center when the SEMA Show closes to the delight of thousands of fans in the crowds. More than 1,200 vehicles will take part in the time-honored tradition at the SEMA Show. This year's route will navigate down Convention Center Drive to the West Hall parking lot. Some enthusiasts show up as early as noon to stake out a spot, so you know you don't want to miss this special event!

• SEMA Cruise
  • Friday, November 8, 4:00 p.m. PST
  • SEMA Show Campus (down Convention Center Drive to the West Hall parking lot).
  • ​​​​​​No cost or RSVP required to attend.

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. 
 

By SEMA News Editor

SEMA is excited to announce that Mothers Polish is continuing its years-long support of the SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas Convention Center, by returning as the presenting sponsor of the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB).

"As a constant supporter of the SEMA Show, we're proud to return once again as the presenting sponsor of the SEMA Battle of the Builders," said Shane Christman from Mothers Polish. "This longstanding tradition showcases the most innovative builds on the planet, and we're looking forward to seeing this year's creative vehicles!"

Now in its 11th year, the Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish is the industry's leading vehicle competition, providing an international platform for SEMA Show builders to showcase their ingenuity. 

With support from Mothers Polish, the 2024 SEMA BOTB will recognize class champions as the best in four categories:

• Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck
• 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road
• Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic
• Young Guns

One finalist in one of these four categories will be crowned the overall BOTB champion during this year's SEMA Show.

Additionally, Mothers Polish is also continuing a SEMA Show tradition at the 2024 SEMA Show with its daily vehicle wipe down program. Booth vehicles, sponsored vehicles and featured vehicles are all eligible and will be cleaned up each morning by the Mothers Polish detailing team using some of their finest car care offerings.

If you (or your organization) have a vehicle that will be displayed at the 2024 SEMA Show, and you'd like to be included in the complimentary Mothers Polish wipe-down service, apply online here. Entries will be limited to 200 vehicles on a first-come, first-served basis.

The SEMA Show, taking place November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is the ultimate gathering for the automotive specialty-equipment industry. It is the place to discover new products and trends, make new business connections, strengthen existing ones, and help professionals take their careers and their businesses from good to great.

For more information on the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Polish competition or to register, visit semabotb.com. The deadline to register for BOTB is Friday, October 18. To learn more or to register to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2024 SEMA Show returns to the Las Vegas Convention Center, November 5-8, bringing together the automotive industry's top brands, manufacturers, builders, professionals and enthusiasts. This year's event will once again feature popular attractions alongside new-for-2024 events, offering something for every attendee, no matter what category or background they come from.

Among the countless sessions set for SEMA Week are these popular SEMA-backed events that require RSVP or ticket purchases.

SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast

Tuesday, November 5, 7:00 - 8:45 a.m. PST

• Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino - Paradise Event Center (View on Google Maps)
• No cost to attend, RSVP required.
• RSVP for the SEMA Kickoff Breakfast here.

Before you hit the SEMA Show floor on Tuesday, November 5, plan to start your experience strong with the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast! Network with a global automotive community before sitting down with a plated breakfast and celebrity keynote and special presentations. Attendees and exhibitors will also see the future direction of the automotive aftermarket with the presentation of New Products Awards to deserving recipients. SEMA's New Product Awards competition recognizes outstanding achievements in the development of products being introduced by the automotive specialty-equipment market at the SEMA Show. Seating is limited; reserve your spot today!

Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls

Tuesday, November 5, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. PST

• SEMA Show campus outside of the Lower South Hall
• General admission tickets start at $49! (before fees)
• Purchase Industry Night @ SEMA tickets here.

Jumpstart your 2024 SEMA Week at the Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls, an exclusive celebration of car culture, community and collaboration featuring tire-smoking drift demos from OPTIMA and live performances of chart-topping music from The Goo Goo Dolls, as well as O.A.R. and Reignwolf.

Tickets are still available starting at just $49, and they might sell out, so don't wait!

The Tuesday night event will provide Showgoers with yet another opportunity to come together, celebrate the aftermarket and forge relationships that will drive the industry forward, all following a successful first day of the 2024 SEMA Show.

Check out VIP ticket options for premium viewing areas, VIP bars and washrooms, separate entrances and complimentary charging stations.

SEMA Industry Awards Banquet

Thursday, November 7, 6:00 p.m. Reception, 7:00 p.m. Banquet

• Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino - Paradise Event Center (View on Google Maps)
• Tickets or host tables are required.
• Purchase SEMA Industry Awards Banquet tickets here.

Fasten your seatbelts. The aftermarket's night of the year returns on Thursday, November 7, for the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet. Join the celebration that's complete with great friends, food, entertainment and maybe even a few surprises. The extravaganza also reveals the winner of several prestigious awards, including the Chairman's Service Award, Content Creator of the Year, the Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award, and the SEMA Person of the Year. You won't want to miss this one!

Tickets for the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet are $99 each. Purchase tickets here. Host tables are also available for $2,000, providing VIP seating and a 30-second commercial spot played during the program. Contact Courtney Wright at courtneyw@sema.org to learn more and get involved.

SEMA Fest

Friday, November 8, (Doors open 3:00 p.m., last concert ends 10:00 p.m. PST).

• SEMA Show campus outside of the Lower South Hall
• General admission tickets start at $69! (before fees)
• Purchase SEMA Fest tickets here.

Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with high-octane excitement, incredible music and everything you love about car culture on Friday, November 8, on the SEMA Show campus. Don't miss out—grab your tickets now before they sell out and be part of this incredible celebration.

Note: VIP SEMA Fest passes are almost sold out! Buy your tickets today for access to premium viewing areas, VIP bars and washrooms, separate entrances and complimentary charging stations during the event.

• Epic Performances: Live music from Cage the Elephant, SUBLIME, Fitz And The Tantrums, and Petey will keep the energy high and the crowd buzzing. 
• Thrilling Events: From the heart-pounding OPTIMA Unleashed, Nitro Circus, Shell Unbound and more outdoor activations and immersive experiences, SEMA Fest has something for everyone. 

You won't want to miss these special events 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.