By SEMA News Editors
The SEMA FutureTech Studio, Booth #24401 in Central Hall, has something for everyone interested in the future of the aftermarket.
Maybe you're into classics or hot rods. Then again, maybe trucks or modern muscle are your scene--or perhaps even tuners or Teslas. But whatever industry sector you cater to as an aftermarket professional, the very nature of automotive transportation is rapidly changing. Thankfully, you can get a handle on the fluctuating currents at the 2024 SEMA FutureTech Studio, Booth #24401 in the Show's Central Hall.
"Obviously, everyone nowadays is focusing on powertrains and emissions and the continued viability of internal combustion engines [ICEs] in the coming decades," observes Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "But the industry is already feeling the impact of other trends as well, from new manufacturing techniques and materials to telematics and autonomous vehicles. While these present challenges to industry businesses, they also promise new opportunities. On a macro level, all this is reflected throughout the SEMA Show floor, but the FutureTech Studio condenses them all in one place for discovery, discussion and understanding."
The SEMA FutureTech Studio stage in Booth #22401 in Central Hall features thought-provoking discussions on new propulsion solutions available to the aftermarketfor cleaner emissions and future mobility.
Formerly known as SEMA Electrified, the space was rebranded as SEMA FutureTech Studio last year to better reflect the myriad of solutions that the aftermarket is bringing to cleaner emissions and future mobility. Alongside EVs, you'll also learn of the latest advancements in electric-hybrid engines as well as ICE technologies involving hydrogen, compressed natural gas (CNC), synthetic and biofuels, and more. Perhaps best of all, you'll see nearly 30 stunning vehicle builds proving that the race toward cleaner emissions doesn't mean sacrificing coolness, performance, style, or even fun.
"[SEMA and SEMA Garage is] shining a light on all the automotive industry's emerging technologies and demonstrating the inclusivity of everything the market offers," adds SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology Luis Morales, who curates the exhibit space. "We also have a dedicated stage space for educational presentations, and we've reserved a number of booths around the space for 40 exhibiting companies developing and supplying products and tools related to future-focused technologies."
Ultimately, Morales believes Show attendees have much to gain from exploring the range of invention taking place in the SEMA FutureTech Studio. At the very least, it will help them future-proof their current businesses--and may even spark new ideas for growth.
Chevron's Future Fuel Showcase is among the 40 exhibiting companies associated with this year's SEMA FutureTech Studio in Central Hall.
"I would say a large percentage of SEMA members are all making products for ICEs and a small percentage are making them purely for BEVs," he explains.
"There are some universals that carry over to both vehicle types, but looking at the powertrain alone, you have this big gap between the two. Still, there's a lot of innovation that can be had with ICE. What's special about the technology that they're developing right now? How is it going to impact the industry? And what does it mean for the aftermarket? Seeing and understanding all this can help our industry evolve and continue to make products that push the market forward."
The SEMA FutureTech Studio shows there's a lot of innovation happening in ICE and alternative propulsion.
For more on the SEMA Show, visit the floorplan at semashow.com/floorplan or visit semashow.com.