DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.13.23) – Builders and engineers who are featuring a vehicle at the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31–November 3 in Las Vegas, have until Wednesday, October 25, to submit their entries for the new SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year award. The award will honor and celebrate a build that demonstrates quality engineering throughout the entire vehicle or features an aspect that goes beyond just physical appearance.
The award aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle’s design and engineering.
“While vehicle aesthetics have always played a crucial role in the automotive aftermarket, this award recognizes the intricate engineering that transforms a vehicle into a masterpiece of design and functionality,” said Chris Standifer, SEMA project manager of recognition programs. “It also sheds light on the technical brilliance behind the build and provides a platform for engineers to showcase their transformative innovations.”
To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video, description of the engineering content included in the build and the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show into their submission. Entries are being accepted until Wednesday, October 25, at this link.
The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award winner will be announced at SEMA Central (Booth #10001, Central Hall) on Thursday, November 2, at the SEMA Show.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (11.12.23) – The 2023 SEMA Show is forecasted to return to historic levels when it comes to the Las Vegas Convention Center Oct. 31–Nov. 3.
Now in its 56th year, the Show is where the automotive aftermarket industry gathers to discover new products, identify future trends, and make valuable connections that empower the growth of one of the most innovative industries in the country and around the world.
“The SEMA Show is a must-attend event for anyone who wants to set the pace in the automotive aftermarket,” said Tom Gattuso, SEMA vice president of events. “The scope of exhibitors, new product launches, high-quality programs, and opportunities at this year’s Show will have attendees well-positioned for success in the coming year.”
The growth of the Show underscores the impact the automotive aftermarket has on the American economy. SEMA recently released its first-ever economic impact report, and the data showed that the industry contributes $337 billion to the U.S. economy and creates 1.3 million jobs nationwide. Automotive aftermarket companies also pay more than $24 billion in federal taxes and $16 billion in state and local taxes, and their employees earn more than $104 billion in wages and benefits. And the impact of the Show also reverberates around the globe with attendees expected from more than 140 countries and regions.
Show organizers have curated multiple opportunities for exhibitors, buyers, and media to see what’s coming next in the automotive aftermarket:
Spotting Future Product Trends The discovery of new products remains the heart of the SEMA Show. More than 2,200 exhibitors will be in attendance – 23 percent are first-time exhibitors – giving buyers and media the first look at new innovative products. Highlights include:
The New Product Showcase: one of the focal points of the Show, the Showcase features hundreds of new products and industry innovations and connects buyers directly with exhibitors via the SEMA Show app.
FutureTech Studio: This new, immersive experience will highlight “what’s next” through live education, product displays, and sponsor vehicles demonstrating technologies that are advancing and redefining the performance aftermarket.
Powering Development Through Education The Show will offer nearly 100 education programs covering a wide breadth of topics and subjects – ranging from women in the industry to digital marketing and more – designed to help businesses, and careers, expand and grow. Highlights include:
The Main Stage Experience Featuring Tim Tebow: athlete, entrepreneur, and philanthropist will be sharing his “Mission-Possible” life message.
Fireside Chat with Willy T. Ribbs: the American racing champion will join Beth Paretta on the SEMA Show Main Stage to share his story as a pioneer in motorsports.
The Future of Automotive Fuel Technology hosted by Margaret Hoover: engage with a panel of global industry leaders, subject-matter experts and thought leaders as they discuss decarbonization through alternative fuel technologies.
Experiencing Innovation The SEMA Show’s experiences spotlight future trends as demonstrated by exhibitors and builders. Highlights include:
Battle of the Builders, Presented by Mothers: a unique program that helps attendees spot trends and see the latest techniques of some of the industry’s most influential builders.
Shell “Performance Unbound” Experience: the interactive Shell V-Power NiTRO+ booth will feature Shell scientists sharing details about the fuel maker’s new and improved premium gasoline.
Networking Events: hosted by Jarod DeAnda, the kick-off breakfast and awards banquet bring industry professionals together for networking and provide the backdrop for new product award winners, and other honors including the Robert E. Peterson Lifetime Achievement, Manufacturer of the Year, Channel Partner of the Year, SEMA Person of the Year, SEMA Gen-III Innovator of the Year, and SEMA Content Creator of the Year awards.
To learn more about the 2023 SEMA Show taking place Oct. 31–Nov. 3, in Las Vegas, Nev., visit www.semashow.com.
TAMPA, FL (10.12.23) – Hertz Audison had a major present at the 2023 IBEX Show in Tampa FL. The company had a major presence inside the Tampa Convention and Dockside with multiple boats and cruisers. In addition to showcasing the company’s products a prestigious IBEX Innovations Award was forthcoming. The IBEX 2023 Innovations Awards showcased outstanding marine product development to the recretional boating industry and beyond.
Rob Osheaski (R)-Echo Marketing and an IBEX staff presenter flank Hertz Audison staff members with the Innovations Award. Paul Sunseri, Newly Rossetti and Luca Girotti are the Hertz Audison Team members.
The Hertz Audison booth was busy throughout the recent IBEX Show.
In the Entertainment category the Hertz Marine/Audison Marine HTX 8H S-FL-G was named the IBEX 2023 Innovation Awards Winner. Judge Ryan Gulland observed “Thanks to Hertz’ novel approach to horn design, the HTX 8H S-FL-G tower speakers deliver crystal-clear audio well outside the wake.
Hertz Marine/Audison Marine has introduced the revolutioary Hertz Marine Horn Loaded Compression Driver Tower Speakers, a groundbreaking addition to the world of marine audio technology. Engineered to perfection with uncompromising precision, these speakers redefine the concept of high-performance marine audio systems, delivering an unparrelled listening experience for boating enthusiasts and water sports aficionados.
The Hertz Marine Audison Marine Innovations Award Winning HTX 8H S-FL-G Tower Speaker spotlighted.
The IBEX 2023 Innovations Awards program, managed by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and judged by Boating Writers Internatiional (BWI), is one of the marine industry’s most prestigious honors recognizing manufacturers and supplieers who bring, new innovative products to market.
METAIRIE, LA (10.11.23) – ORACLE Lighting is set to unveil a massive global expedition vehicle build along with the latest in aftermarket lighting technology at the 2023 SEMA Show.
WHO: Since 1999, ORACLE Lighting has established itself as the leader in innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive industry. The company was awarded SEMA’s Manufacturer of the Year and YEN Vanguard awards in 2021 for its outstanding contribution to the automotive industry.
WHAT: For this year’s SEMA Show, ORACLE Lighting will unveil some of the most advanced off-road lighting solutions on the market. In addition, the company’s EMP-proof Stewart & Stevenson M1979 LMTV global expedition vehicle build will make its first public appearance.
DETAILS:
ORACLE Lighting Booth 20555 (Central Hall) The ORACLE Lighting booth will feature the company’s new VEGA Series off-road pod spotlights, Laser + LED Fog Light Kit for 2021-24 Ford Broncos and Flush LED Tail Lights for the 2010-23 Toyota 4Runner and 2014-21 Toyota Tundra. Designed to deliver extreme off-road visibility, the new products will provide a look into the future of vehicle lighting applications. A full selection of the company’s new and most popular products for Jeep, Ford, Ram, Toyota and more will also be on display.
Overland Experience (Diamond Lot, adjacent to West Hall) ORACLE Lighting will debut its global expedition vehicle build in the Diamond Lot. The EMP-proof and fully built Stewart & Stevenson M1979 Light Medium Tactical Vehicle (LMTV) has been designed by ORACLE to handle overland and off-road exploration into remote places for extended durations while also serving as a showcase for the future of off-road lighting technology.
New Products Showcase (North Hall) The new ORACLE Lighting products will be on display in the New Products Showcase for the duration of the show.
LAS VEGAS, NV (10.11.23) – The SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, is a true five-senses experience, showcasing thousands of the latest automotive products and technology alongside several features delivered by some of the industry’s biggest names.
Of course, there will be 2,200-plus exhibitor booths teeming with new products (view the up-to-date floorplan), but the SEMA Show’s projected 160,000 attendees can also prepare for the familiar tire-smoke, adrenaline and excitement as world-class activations return not only to the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) halls but also to dedicated areas outside the LVCC.
Below is a sampling of what is in store outside of the SEMA Show for attendees during all Show hours:
Shell has announced it is again joining the SEMA Show with the Shell Performance Unbound experience. The company invites SEMA Show participants to step into two interactive locations, the Shell V-Power NiTRO+ Booth #81059 and Booth #81125, to get up close and personal with the likes of Scott McLaughlin and many others. The Show feature will also allow attendees to engage with Shell’s scientists about its new and improved premium gasoline. Plus, there will be can’t-miss opportunities to win fantastic prizes and giveaways throughout the week. Best of all, when SEMA Show attendees complete a Passport gamecard, available only at the Shell V-Power NiTRO+ booth, they can enter to win a drifting experience with one of Shell’s pro drift drivers. Remember to tag Shell on social media and be sure to follow the action using the hashtag #ShellVPower. SEMA is excited that Shell is again supporting the annual SEMA Show with this enhanced interactive space,” said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. “The company’s SEMA Show programs are traditionally popular with our attendees, and their enhanced presence this year is sure to add even more value to our event.”
Plus, take the chance to win fantastic prizes and giveaways throughout the week. Best of all, when you complete a passport game card, available only at the Shell V-Power NiTRO+ booth, you can enter for a chance to win a drifting experience with one of Shell’s pro drift drivers.
OPTIMA Batteries is slated to once again bring the action to Las Vegas! For context, in 2008, OPTIMA Batteries created the Ultimate Street Car Invitational Challenge, which pitted the world’s highest-performance street cars and trucks against each other in various contests. In 2021, building on the event’s momentum, competitors, for the first time, completed a timed segment called the Peak Performance Challenge, which tested a vehicle’s ability to accelerate and brake at the SEMA Show. Competitors at the SEMA Show also had their vehicles evaluated by a set of judges in the Lingenfelter Design & Engineering Challenge. At the 2022 SEMA Show, OPTIMA expanded its footprint to host additional parts of the Ultimate Street Car Invitational in the Bronze Lot during Show hours. Adding to the tire smoke in 2023 will be celebrity driver appearances and demonstrations, as well as amazing project vehicles from OPTIMA. The OPTIMA Village is shaping up to be one of the most action-packed parts of the SEMA Show–you don’t want to miss it!
Last year, the SEMA Show introduced a ground-shaking collaboration with the Motorcycle Industry Council and its marquee market expansion program, Ride With Us. The popular activation will return to Las Vegas, offering a free introductory motorcycle riding experience for anyone who’s thought about or wanted to try riding a motorcycle but has yet to have the opportunity to do so. The immersive experience provides everything you need to experience the thrill of two wheels. With a certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation Coach, you’ll go over the basic operation of a motorcycle. The team will provide everything you need: gear, bike, coaches and fun! Ride With Us has traveled across the country, giving first-ride experiences to hundreds of participants aged 16 and up. Motorcycle Safety Foundation-certified coaches help riders get geared up and then guide them on a motorcycle at their own pace. Cinnamon Kernes, who leads the Motorcycle Industry Council’s Ride With Us program, shared, “We are excited to return to the SEMA Show and help Show attendees just how fun and rewarding it can be to ride a motorcycle. Our unique format is one of the best ways to start your motorcycle journey, as we provide the safety gear, the motorcycles and the coaches. All you need to bring are the smiles.”
The beloved SEMA Overland Experience moves to an outside location this year to showcase the many products and solutions in the environment they were designed for. With many similarities and connections to off-roading and adventure travel, overlanding has strong roots in Australia and South Africa, with its popularity in the United States exploding over the past decade. Buyers at the 2023 SEMA Show will now be able to view products and vehicles tailored explicitly for overlanding in the expanded SEMA Overland Experience area. The specialized exhibit will include dozens of customized vehicles with fully popped-out tents, survival accessories and portable kitchen systems, all displayed among various exhibitors supporting the growing overlanding market. For more details, including sneak peeks at SEMA Overland Experience builds set for display this year, visit here.
Feature Vehicle Displays
Across the SEMA Show
The SEMA Show is renowned for the innovative parts and accessories displayed on Show vehicles representing every industry niche, from cars to trucks to powersports. Much more than rolling works of art, the feature vehicles offer an in-person look at the real-life applications of the aftermarket’s latest and most exciting products. Located throughout the outdoor areas of the SEMA Show, the displays act as extensions to Show booths, connecting attendees with exhibitors and product creators. For 2023, the SEMA Show app features a scanning function that allows attendees to quickly capture product and exhibitor information from the feature vehicles displayed throughout the Show.
SEMA Show management is dedicated to making the event as successful and worthwhile as possible for all. Registration is still available online for $120 through the event date. Badge pick-up will be available on-site at the Las Vegas Convention Center in the West Hall for those who register online. Full-service registration (and badge pick-up) will be open in South Hall for those who still need to register. Get started on your road to the 2023 SEMA Show by registering today at SEMAShow.com/register!
Get the mobile app and put the SEMA Show in your pocket. It’s available as a free download from your mobile device’s native app store and online at SEMAShow.com/app. Or visit SEMAShow.com for the latest information and Show news.
AUBURN HILLS, MI (10.10.23) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. is now shipping the Alpine OPTIM™6, a 6-channel Hi-Res Sound Processor with Automatic Sound Tuning.
Following the launch of the Alpine OPTIM™8, which debuted a powered, 8-channel processor with Automatic Sound Tuning, the OPTIM™6 offers a nearly identical feature set in a smaller, 6-channel configuration and no built-in amplifier. This intentional design positions this product as a starting point for the customer looking to easily integrate and elevate the performance of their factory sound system or be a means to build or add to an amplified aftermarket sound system.
“The competitive edge of the OPTIM™ line is its versatility,” said Gregg Thomas, Director of National Sales at Alps Alpine North America. “The OPTIM™ products are for any customer who walks in the door wanting better sound. The OPTIM™6 takes this idea a step further by offering an easy integration and sound tuning piece at a more approachable price point.”
In addition to its versatility, the OPTIM™6 continues in the quest to simplify sound processing. A simple, self-guided tuning process via the OPTIM™ IOS app (available for iPhone/iPad) or PC app with the KTX-CSP1 External Mic kit (sold separately) quickly and precisely measures the vehicle’s interior. This innovative Auto-EQ software analyzes the vehicle’s acoustic environment and intelligently adjusts to “optimize” the audio output for the vehicle and provide the best possible listening experience.
The Alpine OPTIM™6 PXE-C60-60 is available now for $399.95 and can be purchased at Alpine Authorized retailers and Preferred Online Stores. Please check the store locator on http://www.alpine-usa.com for details.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.10.23) – SEMA Show exhibitors have voted on the top trend-setting vehicles in the automotive aftermarket. Voted by experts and innovators in the automotive specialty equipment industry, these leading vehicles represent the best business opportunities for aftermarket manufacturers and are vying for awards in six categories at this year’s Show.
The winning vehicle in each category will be announced prior to the SEMA Show Monday Reveal at 5 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 30, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Held the evening before the opening of the Show, the Monday Reveal gives media and exhibitors a sneak peek at a few of the more than 1,500 vehicles that will be on display during the week.
The 2023 SEMA Show is receiving tremendous support from the automotive aftermarket and is forecasted to return to historic levels as one of the most highly anticipated trade shows in the country.
Finalists for SEMA Awards (in alphabetical order):
SEMA Car of the Year Ford Mustang Toyota Supra
SEMA Mid-Size Truck of the Year Jeep Gladiator Toyota Tacoma
SEMA Full-Size Truck of the Year Ford F-Series Toyota Tundra
SEMA 4×4/SUV of the Year Ford Bronco Jeep Wrangler
SEMA Sport Compact Car of the Year Nissan Z Toyota GR86
SEMA Electric Vehicle of the Year Ford Lightning Lexus RZ
The SEMA Award finalists represent exhibiting automakers that support the aftermarket with accessory-friendly models based on their potential for customization. Exhibitors choose to develop products for new vehicles that have wide consumer appeal, and regularly collaborate with automakers through such programs as SEMA Measuring Sessions and Tech Transfer.
To learn more about the 2023 SEMA Show taking place Oct. 31–Nov. 3, in Las Vegas, Nev., visit www.semashow.com.
VILLE ST-LAURENT, QUEBEC (10.09.23) – In September Automobility was able to send 30 Canadian Audison dealers to Italy to visit Elettromedia’s headquarters, for “THE ITALIAN EXPERIENCE”
Dealers enjoyed a private preview of new products and exchanged valuable industry information, while touring the engineering and design aspects of Ellettromedia.
Rob Nelson, President of Automobility Distribution, related “The trip was amazing. Virtually every minute of the day our hosts were taking us to museums or treating us to a fabulous meal. We did see upcoming products also on this terrific team building trip.” Automobility Team members making the trip included Rob Nelson, Michael Berger, Steve Coulombe, Richard Wade, Terry Letteney, Scott Kerpan and Justin Bond.
TRIP WAS NOT ALL BUISNESS;Elettromedia based in Marche region of Italy invited Automobility and it’s Canadian Audison partners to experience the beauty of some of Italy’s most historic and beautiful communities, as well as the region’s rich wine and culinary heritage, breathtaking scenery, and the Adriatic Coast’s.
Day One – After a fun day visiting the Ducati museum, everyone settled down for an enjoyable dinner at the Hotel Terme Salvarola.
Day two – Another highlight of the trip was a stop to the Ferrari Museum, which is now hosting an exhibition called “Innovation at Maranello,” which presents some of the most important vehicles in the history of the Prancing Horse brand in an entirely new setting. The exhibit portrays the history of the Maranello label from a place of innovation.
Day Three – The group went on a corporate tour of Elettromedia’s headquarters, met with key decision-makers, and spent the day learning more about the Audison line of products.
After a great time discovering the place where all ideas are born and grow, the crew headed to Ristorante Della Rosa In Sirolo to sample fine wines and socialize over aperitifs. The organised wine list included the greatest regional, national, and worldwide brands, along with fish specialties, fried dishes, and seafood crudités.
After a satisfying dinner, the group headed to Italy’s largest indoor kart track for some friendly competition.
Day Four – Leonardo Doffo, the Technical Product Marketing Manager at Elettromedia, provided our team with product training on the newest offerings from Elettromedia. The day continued followed by local winery and wine tasting at Terra Fageto Wine Cellar and finished the day having dinner at Lu Focaro Restaurant in In Torre Di Palme. This restaurant is known for its fantastic panoramic balcony on top of a hill dominating the coast and the Adriatic Sea.
Day Five – Everyone spent the day in the town of Gadara. The ancient town is characterized by a double line of medieval walls and by the massive castles. The Electtromedia team treated our staff and Canadian Audison partners for another amazing Italian cuisine.
Nelson concluded “Automobility is very fortunate to have Ellettromedia as a partner, they were incredible hosts to us and our dealers”, President of Automobility Distribution.
Automobility Distribution is Canada’s largest mobile electronics distributor. Headquartered in Montreal, along with offices and warehousing facilities in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver. For more information on AutoMobility Distribution, visit automobilitydistribution.com.
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA (10.09.23) – MAXPRO Window Films was a proud sponsor of the 2023 Int’l Window Film Conference and Tint-Off that took place September 20th-22nd at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. MAXPRO team members Amanda Scott, Kari Cox, Ashley Sasser and Allison Parker travelled from the company’s Whiteville NC headquarters and plant to showcase the company’s latest window films and paint protection films. In addition MAXPRO provided MAXPRO Window Films for the Tint-Off Competition.
The Team in the booth set up and ready. Amanda Scott, Kari Cox, Ashley Sasser and Allison Parker.
“Having a booth at the Conference to connect with dealers and installers was very productive. We scanned close to 100 dealer badges, talked to many of our MAXPRO dealers and supported Tint-Off Competitors. Ricky Miller, Joshua Maharjh, Joe Guzman and Marcus Quintana plus Christopher Peterson were winners in the Tint Off Competition” Allison Parker related.
Allison Parker in a fun shot with a Conference Bear attendee.
A competitor in the Tint-Off.
During the conference the MAXPRO Team members interacted with attendees to learn ways the company could offer more products, services and information. The Virginia Beach event also served as a warmup for the SEMA show in Las Vegas October 31st through November 3rd. MAXPRO will have a booth in the West Hall at SEMA 2023.
More Tint-Off Competiton
Concluding Parker offered “We are really looking forward to the SEMA Show. We will showcase our window films plus our latest paint protection films (PPF) which offer strong, long lasting protection to keep a vehicle’s surfaces factory fresh against road hazards, sand, salt and snow.”
The MAXPRO Window Films will be on site at SEMA 2023 in the West Hall, Booth 54153.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (10.06.23) – Organizers of the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, are excited to announce the all-new “MotorTrend Celebrity Showcase” to this year’s lineup!
SEMA and MotorTrend have partnered to bring you a truly one-of-a-kind experience, which is now open for registration here. Attendees of this track will be treated to a live interview session, moderated by auto specialist and television host Ant Anstead, and featuring some of the biggest names from MotorTrend:
Amir Bentatou (“Super Street Garage”): Owner and designer at RS Future, Amir shares his deep knowledge of all things speed and style with “Super Street Garage.”
John “Nads” Naderi (“Super Street Garage”): Former editor-in-chief of “Super Street Magazine,” Nads has been at the forefront of the tuner scene since its inception.
Lucky Costa (“HOT ROD Garage”): With a breadth of experience from domestics to Euros to Datsuns, Lucky is out to prove that anything can be a hot rod if you do it right.
Alex Taylor(“HOT ROD Garage”) – Alex has been building and racing for as long as she’s been able to grip a wrench. As the newest host of “HOT ROD Garage,” her thirst for horsepower continues to propel the show forward.
Dave Kindig (“Bitchin’ Rides”): Host of “Bitchin’ Rides,” Kindig and crew turn out some of the most creative, one-of-a-kind vehicles on the planet.
Kevin “KevDogg” Schiele (“Bitchin’ Rides”): Working for Kindig-It Design, where he runs the 27,000-sq. ft. shop, Schiele has an unparalleled passion for the auto industry, and spends long hours in the shop making sure every build is just right.
Ant Anstead (Moderator): As the co-founder and chief engineer of Radford, he is responsible for overseeing the building process of every single bespoke, handmade vehicle to meet exact customer specifications.
This diverse crew of automotive experts and media personalities, will share their experiences in the world of hot rods, restorations, restyling markets, what motivates them, and more.
Get to know this group, while learning, laughing and taking in advice from the perspectives of these household names in the industry.
This showcase is free and open to all SEMA Show attendees. It will be an exciting event, so register now while there’s still time.
12VoltNews.com 