SEMA News—April 2013
New Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road Products
Segment Shows Its Continued Strength at SEMA Show
For a third straight year, the American automotive industry has posted impressive sales gains, with the truck category leading the way. As of December 2012, Ford’s F-series truck again topped sales charts, with 645,316 units sold—up 10.3% over 2011. As in the previous year, Chevrolet’s Silverado came in second with 418,312 units sold. Meanwhile, Ram also made the Top 10 list, coming in fifth with sales of 293,363 units.
Obviously, despite concerns several years ago about the segment’s staying power amid a sluggish economy and rising gas prices, the Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road category remains strong—and continues to present lucrative opportunities for the automotive aftermarket. This fact was underscored at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where the Ford F-Series was named the Show’s Hottest Truck in the annual SEMA Awards, which honor vehicles most often featured by exhibitors in their booths. Once again, the Jeep Wrangler also reigned supreme as the Show’s Hottest 4x4-SUV.
The overall Show statistics surrounding the Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road category were extremely positive. A total of 290 Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road exhibitors filled 138,200 sq. ft. of Show space, showcasing hundreds of new and featured products. These figures made for an impressive 13% increase in exhibitor space within the category.
The following pages feature new Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road applications that debuted at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Along with the products, we’ve interviewed several industry executives for their perspectives on current trends, along with advice for selling into the category.
View a complete listing of New Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road Products on PDF.
|
No-drill installation. 3M edge trim. CAD engineered. Fits vehicle’s contours. American manufactured. Limited lifetime warranty. UV protected. OE limited-edition look; OE matte finish. |
The first in the ARB-branded lighting line, this new LED light contains 32 LEDs and 8,200 raw lumens. It uses a hybrid optics (reflector and lens) located in a retaining bezel and polycarbonate lens. |
||
|
Bushwacker Inc. Bushwacker fender flares are designed using 3-D scanning technology and are manufactured in America. Each set is put through rigorous quality control to ensure the highest quality. |
Cequent Performance Products Cequent says that Zero Contact Interface (ZCi) is the newest technology in trailer light powering. It’s like a universal T-connector or power module but no splicing is required. The ZCi’s sensor will not trip any circuits because it isolates the trailer lights from the tow vehicle’s electrical system. The ZCi will fit any vehicle with a 12-volt system. |
||
|
Bushwacker bedrail and tailgate caps are American manufactured with resilient TPO. Each set is designed using 3-D scanning technology and is secured via screw clip and 3M adhesive tape. |
This modular cargo-management system quickly converts a cargo basket into a bike carrier (with optional bike clips). The Dart system can hold up to three bikes. It folds to an upright position for easier parking and maneuvering when not in use. Optional lighting system. The Dart carrier has a 450-lb. carrying capacity and a limited five-year warranty. |
||
|
Husky Liners Husky WeatherBeater floor liners offer superior carpet protection against mud, spills and mess with a fresh, appealing design complementing the interior styling of today’s cars, trucks and SUVs. |
TFP says that its newest design promises to be the ultimate fender trim, as it is 40mm wide with a rolled upper edge for a thicker, more luxurious look and appearance. |
||
|
The Commercial Duty Plus (CD+) hitch series boasts tongue weight capacities of 2,700 lbs. In addition, CD+ hitches can tow 20,000 lbs.
|
Husky custom-molded mud guards provide tough protection for a vehicle’s exterior doors and quarter panels, helping to prevent damage to the vehicle while keeping its running boards clean and minimizing flying road debris. |
||
|
Warrior Products The Warrior Products spare tire license plate mount creates a mounting point inside the center of the tailgate-mounted spare tire. The mount features a quick-disconnect pin for easy removal and adjustable settings to fit many applications.
|
Husky Liners Husky Quad Caps protect a truck’s bedrails from scratches and dents caused by everyday wear and tear. Quad Caps include removable stake pocket covers and install easily with 3M foam tape. Each truck bedrail is protected by a two-piece cap. Once installed, the seam is completely hidden by the cap’s unique styling. |
||
|
There is a big increase in SUV sales as consumers look for carrying space and accessories that allow the family to be in the car for longer drives. They want to ride in comfort, so accessories for the interior are in demand. I also see lighting making a big surge, with a lot of new ways to accessorize front and rear lighting with LED bars. Off-road products are becoming harder to produce and harder to use legally. Consumers can’t afford high-dollar items that they can’t use daily or in a legal or approved place. Local and federal laws are becoming less accommodating of the off-road lifestyle. The EPA is also making some big decisions about the standards OEMs should be producing vehicles to, which will affect the development of aftermarket products and how we can modify our vehicles. All SEMA members should be supporting the SEMA Action Network (SAN) and keeping informed about new legislation.
—Kathryn Reinhardt |
The SUV and truck markets are at a fork in the road. With the exception of the Jeep Wrangler, most new SUVs have become street-friendly, unit-body, sporty, crossover minivans, and most SUV owners won’t modify their vehicles. On the other hand, new trucks are being marketed for their capabilities. Products that cater to traditional truck functions and capabilities are a good bet, while the days of nearly every 3/4- and 1-ton truck having a 6-in. lift and 37-in. tires are over—at least for now. The ’07–present Jeep Wrangler aftermarket is as hot as ever, but I’m worried that many companies are becoming too dependent on that particular vehicle. One reason people modify their vehicles is to stand out. You can’t do that when everyone is building the same vehicle with similar parts. I’m surprised that the other OE manufacturers haven’t tried to cannibalize the Wrangler segment. The public is also ready for diesel vehicles outside of the 3/4- and 1-ton truck market. People are catching wind that the new diesels are clean and get great fuel economy. A 1/2-ton diesel pickup would be a great vehicle to offer aftermarket parts for, so we wait for the OEs to build it.
—John Cappa |
||
|
The Warrior Hitch for the JK Wrangler features a bolt-on design compatible with OEM and aftermarket rear bumpers. The features of this hitch system include a completely bolt-on installation, provisions to mount an OE trailer wiring kit and a Class III tow rating of 5,000 lbs. This hitch includes all mounting hardware and is powdercoated black. |
Warrior Products Brand new from Warrior Products, the DIY Rubicon rock slider kit enables customers with welding skills to create rock sliders on their ’07 and newer Wranglers using their OEM Rubicon side bar. This kit includes prefabricated parts that are welded to the Rubicon bar to create a tough off-road rock slider. |
||
|
The removable Biker Bar attaches to the frame of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. The receiving piece mounts to the trailer and is also removable. Simply drive a bike into the spring-loaded grips for strap-free trailering. |
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge Modular snorkel air intake kit by Rugged Ridge offers low-mount and high-mount options while providing the air the engine needs in extreme conditions. |
||
|
B&W Trailer Hitches The B&W Companion Slider fifth-wheel hitch was designed to apply the features that customers love about the B&W Companion to a system that slides, giving additional turning clearance on shortbed trucks.
|
Tuff Country Ez-Ride Suspension ’03–’12 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 Rear Traction Bar System Tuff Country high-performance traction bars are designed to greatly reduce wheel hop and axle wrap that can result from high horsepower, towing applications and lifted trucks with larger-than-stock tires. Greaseable and rebuildable heim joints adjust to various lengths to fit on factory-height and lifted applications. |
||
|
Strong, versatile, lightweight modular bumper system by Rugged Ridge designed to be affordable with off-road performance and unique on-road looks. |
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge High-clearance ends easily attach to the XHD center section, completing the bumper, providing superior approach angle and closing the gap from flare to bumper. |
||
|
Finally, a versatile, hold-everything roof rack that looks great, swings away for access to the top and fits the proportions of the JK Wrangler. |
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge Original-equipment hood latches degrade and fail, and most aftermarket latches look weak. These billet-aluminum latches are adjustable, durable and proportionally right for JKs. |
||
|
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge Maximize power and performance by drawing colder, denser air into the intake manifold, producing more horsepower and torque. |
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge Bowless top with custom door surrounds by Rugged Ridge offers the functionality of a full top without a bulky frame. Includes custom door surrounds. |
||
|
Curt Manufacturing LLC A simple, elegant solution for mounting tow wiring to a vehicle. No drilling. No clamps. Stainless-steel hardware won’t rust. Steel body won’t break like plastic. |
Husky Liners Husky Quad Caps protect a truck’s bedrails from scratches and dents caused by everyday wear and tear. Quad Caps include removable stake pocket covers and install easily with 3M foam tape. Each truck bedrail is protected by a two-piece cap. Once installed, the seam is completely hidden by the cap’s unique styling. |
||
|
Braided stainless-steel brake hoses feature tough stainless braided outer cover with flexible Teflon inner core to withstand trail hazards better than OE rubber hoses. |
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge Rugged Ridge cold air intake systems can boost vehicles’ performance while helping users keep extra cash in their wallets. |
||
|
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge A spare-tire utility light mount that is easily removed for access to the spare tire and to relocate the license plate from the vulnerable original location.
|
New Doetsch 2.0 front lift and lowering monotubes available for all late-model trucks and SUVs. Custom valved and hand built in the U.S.A. |
||
|
Doetsch has a complete line of 2.0 monotube serviceable shocks for all truck and SUV applications. Models are made for all stock, lifted and lowered applications in lengths of 4 to 16 in. |
Fox
The all-new Fox performance series adjustable through-shaft stabilizer eliminates unwanted road wander and |
||
|
Rhino Linings are hot in the off-road market for spraying fender flares, wheel wells, rocker panels and bumpers, and we have been having success with Nitto Terra Grappler tires. LED strip lighting is also a great add-on sale for both parts and labor. Tonneau cover sales continue to grow because of the versatility, different price points and different styles. Cap World carries A.R.E., Leer, Roll-N-Lock, Access and Bak covers. The Internet is our most significant hurdle, but parts bought on the Internet do not come with a magic genie who installs the part. The key for us is to sell our knowledge and expertise. We offer working displays, years of expertise and on-site installation by trained professionals that customers can speak with face to face.
—Mike Wismer |
Common modifications are a moderate lift and 35- to 37-in. tires, and upgraded front axle housings are enjoying popularity. So are GM engine swaps as the aftermarket comes on board with solutions to the electronic and programming aspects. SUVs are leaning more toward traditional family/soccer-mom roles, and pickups are taking the reins as performance and/or enthusiast vehicles. (One exception to this would be the SRT8 Grand Cherokee, which is just an animal in terms of performance and untapped potential.) In general, people are paying closer attention to the negative effect increased weight has on their overall vehicle builds, and aluminum armor and bumpers that save weight without severely compromising protection have come a long way. Many new enthusiasts come to the table with a goal of running a certain tire size and aren’t really concerned with how to accomplish it. Retailers have the opportunity to bundle wheel/tire/suspension kits to make purchases easier on end users.
—Christian Hazel |
||
|
Fox The all-new Fox factory-series internal bypass shocks deliver patented race-dominating, position-sensitive damping technology and performance into hassle-free bolt-on kits for Jeep JKs. |
Available soon for lifted trucks, the BDS air support system is a top-mounted airbag system designed specifically for lifted trucks to increase load support without limiting suspension travel. The lower pad mount allows full articulation of the suspension while the bags are aired down and additional support when aired up. |
||
|
BMF leveling kits are all bolt-on applications that maintain factory ride and factory alignment specs. No cutting or drilling required. |
Paramount’s new evolution tubular running boards with stainless steps combine aggressive styling with secure footing for the ultimate in form and function. Available in universal lengths with vehicle-specific hardware kits or as vehicle-specific complete boards. Each board is covered with a three-year limited warranty. |
||
|
A 20x12 BMF Death Metal black forged wheel. |
Paramount Automotive Revolution black stainless-steel mesh grille with LED lighted rivets for ’11–’13 Ford Super Dutys. |
||
|
Rehab 8 20x9 Death Metal black wheel. |
BMF Wheels
PN: GCH-6300 |
||
|
The Warn ProVantage 2500-S has a 2,500-lb. pulling capacity and includes synthetic rope—ideal for a variety of ATVs. Warn says that this market-leading unit features fast line speed, a roller disc brake for control while winching and full sealing to keep the elements out. Double-powdercoated fairlead and black finishes throughout give the winch a great look. |
Pittman Outdoors AirBedz Lite truck bed air mattress. Same custom design as AirBedz Original in a PVC version. Portable DC air pump with 16-ft. cord included. |
||
|
Superwinch This limited-edition pink Superwinch Husky winch was auctioned on eBay, with proceeds going to the Men Against Breast Cancer organization. |
Warn Industries Inc. This durable rear bumper is made from 1/8- and 3/16-in. steel and wears a black powdercoated finish. Its design allows for maximum departure angles and recovery options. The tire carrier has a tailgate-synchronized swing-out design that can be opened with one hand, and it features an anti-vibration design. Accommodates tires from 36 to 40 in. |
||
|
Big tires accelerate wear on factory ball joints, which according to the company can lead to death wobble. Alloy USA says it has the solution with these heavy-duty ball joints. |
Warn Industries Inc. Warn says its best-in-class Vantage 2000 has a 2,000-lb. pulling capacity and includes durable aircraft-grade steel rope—ideal for ATVs on the job or on the trail. This affordably priced winch has a host of features, such as fast line speed, dynamic braking for control while winching, a roller fairlead and full sealing to keep the elements out. |
||
|
The Zeon 12 has a 12,000-lb. capacity, ideal for larger trucks and SUVs. The unique convertible control pack can be attached to the winch or remotely mounted. Features an aluminum drum with integrated rope anchor for easy rope installation. Also features IP 68 sealing, stainless hardware and symmetrical styling with an advanced and capable look. |
Bulldog Lighting-KC Hilites The new KC dual-LED light bar is patent pending and is said to be the only one on the market. It offers two light bars in one. Switch up for a white-LED light bar; switch down for an amber-LED light bar.
|
Bushwacker Inc.
ARB 4x4 Accessories
Bushwacker Inc.
Cequent Performance Products
TFP Inc.
Curt Manufacturing LLC
Husky Liners
Winner—Best New Exterior Accessory Product
Warrior Products
B&W Trailer Hitches
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge
Winner—Best New Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge
Doetsch Enterprises
Doetsch Enterprises
The hottest trend in the street-truck arena has been Ready Lift leveling kits, which give trucks a sleek, sporty style that customers love. We have also increased our SUV hitch sales for Ford, Hyundai and Kia SUVs. Thule sales continue to be strong with cross bars and roof-top carriers, but the biggest similarity between trucks and SUVs has been our sales of WeatherTech digital-fit floor liners.
The hot trend is real-world, multipurpose, ’07–present Wranglers that can survive hard trail use on weekends and still serve as family vehicles during the week, and the four-door JK Wrangler Unlimited is actually a really good family vehicle.
BDS Suspension
BMF Wheels
Paramount Automotive
BMF Wheels
BMF Wheels
Warn Industries Inc.
OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge
Warn Industries Inc.
View a complete listing of New Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road Products on PDF.
