By Laura Pitts
As the world evolves and travel preferences shift, the exhilarating realm
of overlanding is captivating hearts and minds, not just in remote corners of the world but increasingly across the United States. As a result, the much-anticipated SEMA Overland Experience returns to the 2023 SEMA Show, now through November 3 in Las Vegas, promising attendees and media a thrilling journey into the expanding universe of overlanding, complete with fresh opportunities and insights.
Before you make your way to the SEMA Overland Experience, Diamond Lot adjacent to the West Hall, all Show Week long, exhibitors have agreed to give SEMA News readers a sneak peek at their displays (more details below).
Preview the Innovative Builds Set for the 2023 Overland Experience
Several exhibitors are excited to showcase their latest overlanding innovations to the tens of thousands of enthusiasts, buyers, influencers, media members and attendees in Las Vegas. Below is a sneak peek at the project vehicles for this year, but be sure to make plans to see these project vehicles up close and in person in the outdoor Overland Experience at the SEMA Show, October 31-November 3.
KW Automotive
KW Automotive will display a project vehicle on a Mercedes Sprinter 170 WB, 3500 XD Super Single 4x2 converted to 4x4 by Igelhaut chassis. Main chassis features include:
- 4x4 by Igelhaut with three mechanical lockers
- Long-range tank
- Raised air intake
- Skid plates for engine
- Gearbox and differentials
- Off-road tires and wheelwell extensions
- Upgraded genuine leather Scheelmann seats
- CAtuned front bumper
In addition, the living habitat by Boxmanufaktur features:
- FRP composite sandwich panel box with storage cab over
- KCT windows and roof skylight
- Panorama hatch
- Elwell hydronic heating system with floor heating and convectors
- 24V Victron electric system with Lithium battery pack
- Inverter/charger, solar panels
- Lightweight furniture with interior walls made of FRP sandwich panels
- Vitrifrigo fridge
- Lumicoin LED light fixtures
- 2Tec2 and teak wood flooring
- Aluminum storage compartments
LiquidSpring Smart Suspension
LiquidSpring Smart Suspension has created a custom-tailored suspension system for two trailblazers in the overland industry. After years of R&D, Supertramp Campers has teamed up with Elevation Off Grid to create one of the most badass turnkey expedition vehicles available: The Megatron.
The Megatron is a turnkey overland vehicle with a seamlessly designed carbon-fiber reinforced shell, 800 watts of solar, 360-degree views through double-pane glass windows, a wet bath, a fully equipped kitchen and touchscreen management of all your systems.
"Our active smart suspension enables higher CG vehicles to possess driving dynamics similar to a sedan while maintaining full factory tow and GVW ratings. This is accomplished through computer-controlled valving, compressible liquid and data from steering angle, brake input, roll, pitch and yaw," said a company release.
ORACLE Lighting
ORACLE's SEMA Overland Experience project vehicle is a '98 Stewart & Stevenson M1079 Light Medium Tactical Vehicle (LMTV). An EMP-Proof 4x4 powered by a Caterpillar 6.6L turbo diesel will soon be converted to a Global Expedition Vehicle (featuring the latest adventure lighting).
"Most people think of Humvees or the big 5-ton 6x6s when it comes to military vehicles," said ORACLE Lighting Founder Justin Hartenstien. "The LMTV flies under the radar a bit, but it is definitely a vehicle worth looking at for an overland build. Its workhorse nature makes it rugged, and we can build it exactly how we want."
Winnebago
Ruggedly built yet light enough to be towed by many off-road SUVs, Winnebago's HIKE 100 FLX is designed for extended off-grid stays and provides a comfortable, well-designed base camp for any adventure. The factory-designed, factory-installed and factory-backed FLX package is an integrated system of four technologies that allow you to camp in comfort for up to five days without electrical and water hook-ups. Updated exterior styling--built to accommodate active outdoor lifestyles with flexible storage systems--takes the HIKE 100 FLX well beyond the expectations of every day.
LinksWell
Stay tuned for more details on LinksWell's rugged overland build set for this year's SEMA Overland Experience.