SEMA Opening
The 2023 SEMA Show officially opened this morning, welcoming more than 2,200 exhibitors and approximately 160,000 attendees to the Las Vegas Convention Center campus to network and discover the next-generation products that will drive business success, industry growth, and the future of the aftermarket in the coming year.
The SEMA Show campus is overflowing with custom vehicles builds, interactive experiences and demonstrations, extensive networking opportunities and thousands of new products for buyers and exhibitors in search of the “next big thing” for their businesses.
“The connections made and relationships built here this week will set the course for our industry,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA Vice President of Events. “The Show gives our members the opportunity to build those important relationships with fellow industry professionals, both on the show floor and at dozens of other events and ensure future success.”
The 2023 Show opens at a time of tremendous growth and optimism across the industry. A new SEMA Economic Impact Report recently found that the aftermarket industry contributes $337 billion to the American economy and creates 1.3 million jobs, employing more people than the U.S. aircraft industry and the entire motion picture and video production industry.
The industry is at the forefront of adopting policies and technologies that help reduce emissions from vehicles, fostering businesses that are on the forefront of change and innovation, while the Show serves as a critical annual platform to help small business grow, build partnerships and drive industry change.
These strong economic indicators are driving optimism among SEMA members. In the recently released SEMA State of the Industry Report, two-thirds of industry companies report stable or growing sales over the last year and 55 percent of manufacturers expect growth in the coming year.
“The incredible support for this year’s SEMA Show demonstrates that our industry is strong and thriving,” said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. “Our members, many of whom are small businesses, are true drivers of growth and prosperity in the United States.”
Attendees come to the SEMA Show from across the United States and around the world to make connections and discover the latest products that will power growth for their businesses. The New Products Showcase, relocated to North Hall, is a popular must-see for those seeking the latest and greatest innovations in styling and performance products from hundreds of start-ups and legendary exhibitors.
The SEMA Show is constantly evolving, a characteristic exemplified by the exhibitors. This year, more than 20 percent of the exhibitors are at SEMA for the first time, including Sandy Vans, a manufacturer of accessories and lifestyle products based in Chula Vista, Calif., that helps people get the most out of their vans and enjoy the outdoor adventurer lifestyle.
“SEMA isn’t just a trade show; it’s the pulse of the automotive industry, highlighting what’s next,” said Alan Mondus, Co-founder and CEO of Sandy Vans. “We’re truly excited and grateful to be joining SEMA for the first time and share our top-of-the-line van and exterior product line.”
Another can’t-miss exhibit is the SEMA FutureTech Studio, an expansive exhibit dedicated to renewable fuels, hybrid technology, sponsor vehicles, engaging discussions and education to keep members on the cutting edge.
Several automakers are also out in force at the Las Vegas Convention Center, including Ford EV, Ford Performance Parts & Accessories, Lexus, Nissan and Toyota. Several will be debuting new vehicle concepts, custom builds and new parts and accessories designed for enthusiasts to personalize their rides.
Other Show highlights include a robust education program, offering nearly 100 sessions on a wide variety of topics; the Shell “Performance Unbound” Experience, where attendees can engage with Shell scientists about the fuel maker’s new and improved premium gasoline; Optima Village, an action-packed Show favorite featuring celebrity driver appearances, demonstrations, amazing project vehicles and plenty of tire smoke; the Overland Experience moves outdoors and showcases the latest trends in off-road adventure vehicles and accessories; and SEMA Garage: ADAS, Emissions, Product Development, an expanded interactive exhibition with live demos and knowledge to help SEMA members develop high-quality, robust, compliant products.
Battle of the Builders, a prestigious competition of the best builders in the industry, celebrates its 10th anniversary with judging taking place throughout the week, and will narrow the field from 40 finalists to one ultimate winner announced on Friday, November 3, while connecting consumers through social media and a television show airing in January 2024. And as the SEMA Show draws to a close, SEMA Fest opens its doors, bringing enthusiasts from the music and automotive worlds together for two days of music, motorsports and car culture featuring 22 diverse musical acts on two stages, demonstrations from Formula DRIFT, Hoonigan and Nitro Circus, E-gaming and more.
New Product Awards
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) announced its Best New Products Award winners this morning during the 2023 SEMA Show. These awards are given to the most innovative and cutting-edge automotive aftermarket products that will be consumable in 2023.
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.
More than 1,300 products were entered into the 18 different Showcase categories to be considered for a 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:
Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Product
Winner: Ultimate ADAS, Hunter Engineering Company
Runner Up: National CDS 360 OEM Laptop, National Calibration and Diagnostic Solutions, Pro Mobile Scan, ADAS Targeting Solutions
Runner Up: AiDN, Diagnostic Network
Collision Repair & Refinish Product
Winner: Goliath Test Weld Stand, Goliath Carts
Runner Up: GUNI X Series, GUNIWHEEL LLC
Runner Up: KECO GPR+ System, KECO Body Repair Products
Electric Vehicle Product
Winner: 16-21 Tesla Model S NOVA-Series LED Projector Headlights, AlphaRex
Runner Up: Venom EV Conversion Kit, Scorpion EV
Runner Up: Plug-N-Play Digital Sound Processor Solution for Tesla Model Vehicles, Metra Electronics
Engineered New Product
Winner: Holley Easy Level Fuel Sender, Holley
Runner Up: BoostGate50, Turbosmart USA
Runner Up: Orangetop Hypercore Lithium Marine/RV Deep Cycle Batteries, OPTIMA Batteries
Exterior Accessory Product
Winner: BAK Industries – X4ts Truck Bed Cover, RealTruck
Runner Up: 2018-2020 Ford F-150 Sequential Turn Signal Animated Red LED Bar Tail Light, Spec-D Tuning
Runner Up: RADIANCE+ POD RGBW, Rigid Industries
Interior Accessory Product
Winner: 1978-1988 RGB LED Monte Carlo/El Camino Gauge Cluster w/IQ Signal Installation Module, Intellitronix
Runner Up: CURT Discovery NEXT Time-Delay Brake Controller, Lippert Curt Luverne Ranch Hand Aries UWS
Runner Up: Fanttik DynamicClean V10 Apex Pivoting Car Vacuum Cordless, Fanttik
Merchandising Display
Winner: NACHO POP Dealer Display, ARB 4×4 Accessories
Runner Up: HitchMount LED Pod display, Diode Dynamics
Runner Up: Green Filter Legendary Performance Now in Vibrant Colors, Green Filter
Mobile Electronics Product
Winner: DroneMobile XC Dash Cam with Remote Start Alarm Integration, Firstech, LLC
Runner Up: OPSIS by Stinger, AAMP Global
Runner Up: AI Dash Cam 4K + 1080p, Horizon Brands
Off-Road/4-Wheel Drive Product
Winner: 2022-2023 Toyota Tundra 6” Stage 9 Suspension System Billet
WITH SUBFRAME KIT, Icon Vehicle Dynamics
Runner Up: Advance Adapters Atlas Adapter for RAM, JEEP, Dodge 8HP Transmissions Part # 50-990X, Advance Adapters
Runner Up: Universal Recovery Mount, SeaSucker
Packaging Design
Winner: Formula Drift Premium Comfort Seat Cover, Horizon Brands
Runner Up: Katana Plus HVLP Spray Gun, Anest Iwata Americas inc
Runner Up: RetroSound Europa Radio, Retro Manufacturing
Performance-Racing Product
Winner: Team Plus Wheel Turtle Pro, Team Plus
Runner Up: Dart Machinery Toyota 2JZ Engine Block, Race Winning Brands
Runner Up: Carbon TRc Intake Manifold, Performance Design
Performance-Street Product
Winner: Hyperformance Pistons, United Engine & Machine
Runner Up: Universal Hydroelectric Power Steering System, EPAS Performance
Runner Up: GM A/F/X Body Tall Hub Spindle, Ridetech
Powersports Product
Winner: NACHO Quatro Combo, ARB 4×4 Accessories
Runner Up: AMSOIL ATV/UTV Oil Change Kits, AMSOIL Inc.
Runner Up: 19+ Honda Talon UTV6 Front Brake Kit, Wilwood Disc Brakes
Street Rod/Custom Car Product
Winner: 4, 6 and 8 Position Relay Panels, American Autowire
Runner Up: RnR Modular Drop Knuckle, Pyramid Optimized Design
Runner Up: Radiator/Water Pump Clamp on Compression -AN Fitting (-16AN or -20AN), CVF Racing
Tire and Related Product
Winner: Fanttik X9 Pro Portable Tire Inflator with Accessories All-in-one, Fanttik
Runner Up: Cooper Cobra Instinct, Cooper Tire & Rubber Co.
Runner Up: Baja Boss XS, Mickey Thompson Tires and Wheels
Tools & Equipment Product
Winner: SoloSwap Big Block Chevy Mock Up Engine Swap Dummy Blocks, Speedway Motors Inc.
Runner Up: TRAC TireJack/Roller Accessory Plate, TRAC/Tire Rotation Assistance Cart-Tire Jack
Runner Up: WheelWise Wheel Fitment Tool, Tire Fit Size Measuring Mockup, 5-Lug Metric, Speedway Motors Inc.
Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product
Winner: Aeroleaf for Chevy 1500, Universal Air Suspension
Runner Up: Exhaust Manifold Kit Dodge/Ram 5.7l Hemi
1500 DS/2500 DJ/3500 D2 2009-2018 & RAM 1500 CLASSIC DS 2019-2022, BD Diesel
Runner Up: Shellz – 2023 Ford Super Duty Trim Black-out Kit, ECOOLOGICAL
Wheel and Related Product
Winner: Defiant Wheels – DF06 – 20×10 – Dark Satin Charcoal, 4PLAY Wheels
Runner Up: TR29, Voxx Products
Runner Up: ICON ALLOYS | 17×8.5 ANZA, Icon Vehicle Dynamics
SEMA Vehicle Awards
The prestigious SEMA Awards are presented annually to exhibiting original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to recognize automakers for supporting the aftermarket with vehicle platforms that encourage customization.
One of the most highly anticipated trade shows in the country, the SEMA Show Monday Reveal and awards were highly attended.
The SEMA Awards are voted on by exhibiting manufacturers in six categories. Categories and this year’s winners are:
- Car of the Year: Ford Mustang
- Full-Size Truck of the Year: Ford F-Series
- Mid-Size Truck of the Year: Toyota Tacoma
- 4×4/SUV of the Year: Ford Bronco
- Sport Compact Car of the Year: Nissan Z
- Electric Vehicle of the Year: Ford Lightning
“SEMA Award-winning vehicles are setting worldwide trends in the automotive enthusiast industry,” said Warren Kosikov, SEMA Vice President of Sales. “The Awards recognize the best new vehicles on the market that offer the greatest opportunities for customization. Attendees can see many of these unique award-winning vehicles during the 2023 SEMA Show.”
Toyota Track or Trail Thrills
Toyota returns to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show this fall with a new, multi-brand environment based on 2023’s show theme: Track or Trail, Your Thrill Awaits.
Representing Toyota’s largest commitment to SEMA to date, the display (Central Hall, Booth No. 22200 at the Las Vegas Convention Center) includes a 19-vehicle array showcasing several one-of-a-kind specialty builds, Associated Accessories Program (AAP) accessorized vehicles, the all-new Land Cruiser and the all-new Tacoma, as well as the new GR Family of Special Edition vehicles and a variety of other production cars. GR, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter fans will all be able to rejoice.
“‘Track or Trail, Your Thrill Awaits’ speaks to our unwavering commitment to performance and adventure no matter where our customers find it—on pavement or off-grid,” stated Mike Tripp, group vice president, Toyota Marketing. “Our constant goal is to be the first company customers think about when seeking on-track performance or off-road adventure,” Tripp said.
This year’s display impressively delineates several large brand interest sections, each large enough to serve as its own standalone show, including a four-car Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) display featuring three GR Special Editions and the GR Cup Series GR86 race car. The TRD exhibit features a full-motion, simulator experience with Toyota’s new, patent-pending IsoDynamic Seat, complemented by a five-vehicle showcase. At the center of the action, the spotlight focuses on a new and expansive AAP Meeting Space, and a massive overlanding presence, featuring several exciting concepts and accessorized vehicles as well as a live demonstration of Toyota’s Wireless Trailer Camera System. The theme and layout are sure to delight anyone with a passion for accessorizing their Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVs.
“The SEMA Show offers an ideal platform for Toyota to unveil products and strategies designed to deepen connections with adventure-seekers and performance enthusiasts. Tripp stated, “We want to demonstrate that Toyota is an exciting, innovative company capable of taking our stock vehicles and building them out to do incredible things.”
Today, Toyota also announced the world debut of its TRD Performance Package. Available early 2024 to current generation Tundra buyers, this performance option package will allow customers to boost the power and torque of their trucks with factory upgrades that do not impact warranty.
“Every year at SEMA, we get a chance to tap into imagination to produce some truly amazing vehicle concepts,” Tripp commented. “This year, we’ll go from track to trail, tapping into the excitement of our GR sports cars, the range of our TRD Pro trucks, and now our new Trailhunter grade and all-new 2024 Tacoma. And let’s not forget the return of the legendary Land Cruiser to the US. It’s going to be a tour-de-force of styling and performance this year, and we can’t wait to show the SEMA crowd what the Toyota team has cooked up!”
This year, Toyota is proud to present several special builds designed to ignite consumer imagination, including:
Special Builds:
FJ Bruiser
A salute to Land Cruiser’s roots, this one-of -a- kind, “King of the Hammers” inspired concept began life as a 1966 FJ45 pickup that Toyota transformed into a rock-crawling beast, ready to conquer the toughest terrain in the world.
FJ Retro Cruiser
Rod Millen Group’s 1967 FJ45 Land Cruiser Wagon, dubbed The Retro Cruiser, is one of the coolest and most famous Land Cruiser projects ever completed. Now almost 25 years young, Toyota has refreshed this legend and brought it to Toyota’s SEMA space for the first time, to inspire an entirely new generation of Land Cruiser fanatics.
Tacoma X-Runner Concept
Inspired by the incredible consumer enthusiasm around the launch of the new 2024 Tacoma, Toyota’s design and engineering teams showcase the potential of what Toyota’s TGNA-F product platform could become, by converting this year’s SEMA Mid-size Truck of the Year—a tough, rugged, and lifted workhorse, into a slammed street machine worthy of the X-Runner badge.
The Blue Beetle Tacoma
From the big screen to the SEMA stage, this build takes the award-winning Tacoma and — not unlike Jaime Reyes in Blue Beetle — goes from hero to superhero, featuring an exterior graphic wrap courtesy of the Warner Bros. Pictures’ design team, and superpowered capabilities supplied by Toyota’s Calty Design Studio and Special Parts and Accessories Development (SPAD) division.
Display Vehicles and Demos:
AAP
Rooted in a passion for performance on-road, on-track and off-road, Toyota’s expanded AAP program allows Toyota to offer an array of respected aftermarket accessory brand products to Toyota customers. Located at the center of the Toyota display, AAP accessories adorn many of Toyota’s 2023 SEMA display vehicles. See third party site(s) for warranty details.
GR 86, Trueno Special Edition
The limited GR86 TRUENO Edition is pure driver delight. For 2024, the GR86 Trueno comes standard with a new Performance Package with SACHS Dampers and Brembo Brakes and is available in both manual and automatic transmission models. There will be 860 units produced for the US market.
GR Supra, 45th Anniversary Edition
For over four decades the Toyota Supra has earned a reputation as an icon among sports car enthusiasts. As an ode to the 1990’s models, the GR Supra 45th Anniversary edition brings a touch of nostalgia and flair to the 2024 Supra lineup.
GR Corolla, Circuit Edition
The Toyota GR Corolla keeps bringing the heat with the return of the Circuit Edition for model year 2024.
GR Cup Series GR86
The GR86 Cup Car begins with the same DNA as all GR86s — but it doesn’t finish that way. The professionals at Toyota Gazoo Racing North America upfit every GR86 from world class street and track performer to legitimate race-ready competition car.
Tundra TRD Performance Package®
The TRD Performance Package® is a Toyota Genuine Accessory performance option guaranteed to thrill Tundra buyers. The installed kit increases the i-FORCE MAX engine power output from 437 to 469 horsepower at 5,200 RPM and achieves peak torque 400 RPM sooner. Tundra buyers will be able to choose the Tundra TRD Performance Package spring 2024.
TRD Pro Time Attack – IsoDynamic Performance Seat Simulator
TRD Pro Time Attack is a video game-like experience that pairs the new IsoDynamic Performance Seat with a six-degree-of-freedom simulator and virtual off-road environment created in-house by Toyota R&D and software company Toyota Connected North America (TCNA).
Wireless Trailer Camera on the 2024 Sequoia Platinum i-FORCE MAX Hybrid
Available on Tundra and Sequoia, Toyota’s Wireless Trailer Camera System provides significantly increased, live video feed visibility. This is a must-see demonstration.
2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5
After nearly two decades as the champion of the mid-size pickup truck market, the Toyota Tacoma is ready for its next chapter. Purpose built from the inside out. See it outfitted with a complement of AAP components.
Tacoma Trailhunter
Developed from the ground up for those seeking extended adventures, Tacoma Trailhunter builds upon Toyota’s legendary off-road and overlanding credibility with purpose-built engineering and robust components that can be added to suit the needs of adventurers everywhere.
Tacoma TRD Pro
Leave limits in the dust. This highly capable TRD Pro Series Tacoma brings everything you need to conquer adventure on or off-road. See the vehicle that comes standard with the incredible Iso-Dynamic Performance seat.
Tacoma TRD Off-Road
For those who get their thrills off -road and on-trail, this TRD Off-Road combines comfort while emphasizing thrilling capability in the dirt, mud and sand. See it outfitted with a complement of AAP components.
Land Cruiser 1958
Legends never die. Built on the TNGA-F global truck platform, the new Land Cruiser is designed, engineered, and tested to survive in the harshest of environments. Land Cruiser 1958 strikes a perfect balance between functionality and classic style.
Land Cruiser First Edition
First Edition grade is limited to 5,000 units for North America and comes equipped with round heritage LED headlamps, roof rack, rock rails, and exclusive interior design that is available with leather-trimmed seats.
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX Platinum
With two hybrid powertrain options, Grand Highlander Hybrid is ready to give the drive that best fits any lifestyle. See it outfitted with a complement of AAP components.
2023 Toyota 4Runner 4×4 TRD Off-Road Premium
Delivering consistent performance when the going gets rough, TRD Off-Road’s Crawl Control (CRAWL) * helps steady the course. And TRD Off-Road’s Multi-Terrain Select (MTS) and part-time selectable 4WD help you take on rock, dirt and mud—without losing your grip. See it outfitted with a complement of AAP components.
Toyota’s featured vehicles, build concepts and a variety of production cars, SUVs, and trucks are on display at the Las Vegas Convention Center Oct. 31–Nov. 3, 2023.
Vehicles shown are special project prototype vehicles, modified with parts and/or accessories not available from Toyota that may void the vehicle’s warranty, may negatively impact vehicle performance and safety, and may not be street legal.
Jackery Solar Generator
Jackery, the global leader in solar generators and clean portable power solutions,is an exhibitor at the highly anticipated SEMA Show 2023, taking place at the Las Vegas Convention Center (North Hall) from October 31 to November 3. This year, Jackery will showcase its cutting-edge Plus line of products, including the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus, 1000 Plus, and 300 Plus, along with fan favorites from the Jackery Pro solar generator line at Booth No 10955.
SEMA Show 2023 is renowned for being the ultimate gathering of automotive enthusiasts and professionals from across the globe. It offers a unique platform to showcase the latest automotive performance products and stay ahead of industry trends. For Jackery, a pioneer in renewable portable power solutions, this event presents a golden opportunity to shine among the automotive audience and emphasize the increasing relevance of solar generators in this industry.
Jackery’s SEMA 2023 Highlights:
- Newest Plus Line of Products: Jackery will demo its latest Plus line of products, including the highly-anticipated Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus, 1000 Plus, and 300 Plus. These innovative solutions are designed to provide clean, reliable, and mobile power for various applications.
- Live Stream with Hailie Deegan: Join us at Jackery’s booth on 1p-2p PST October 31st as renowned off-road and stock car sensation Hailie Deegan joins our live stream. She will take the audience on a tour of Jackery’s booth at the SEMA Show, providing an up-close look at Jackery products and exciting features.
“Jackery has always been at the forefront of providing sustainable power solutions, and we are excited to showcase our latest innovations at SEMA 2023,” said John Zhao, Head of Americas at Jackery. “Our products have gained immense popularity among travel, RV, van, and overlanding enthusiasts, and we are eager to connect with the automotive community to demonstrate how Jackery can revolutionize their power needs.”
In addition to product displays and live streams, attendees are invited to meet with the Jackery team for one-on-one discussions, receive product demonstrations, and explore the diverse applications of Jackery’s portable power solutions.
As part of Jackery’s commitment to enabling creativity and innovation, the brand is also excited to announce its partnership with xTool, a frontrunner in the laser engraving field. Together, Jackery and xTool are empowering enthusiasts to bring their craft anywhere, anytime. By visiting Jackery.com, customers can purchase the Explorer 500 Power station bundled with the xTool F1 Fastest Portable Laser Engraver – the market’s fastest portable dual laser engraver – allowing you to customize almost any material in seconds. This bundle offers the perfect combination of portable power and limitless creative possibilities, whether traveling to craft fairs or working remotely in an RV.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Jackery’s game-changing portable power solutions at SEMA 2023. Visit Booth No. 10955 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (North Hall) from October 31 to November 3. To learn more about Jackery’s products and partnerships, please visit Jackery.com