By SEMA News Editors
It’s the opening day of the 2024 SEMA Show, which means the Las Vegas Convention Center is bustling with product and vehicle reveals, education sessions, networking opportunities and much more, and continuing through Friday, November 8.
However, there is plenty to see and do outside the LVCC, too, with spectacular motorsports demonstrations and activations set to take over the Bronze and Silver Lots outside of the Lower South and Central Halls, adding to the already vibrant atmosphere of the Show.
In this SEMA News exclusive, preview the thrilling demonstrations and high-intensity experiences running today through the end of the SEMA Show.
Shell Performance Unbound Experience
Silver Lot, Booth #80001
The Shell Performance Unbound Experience is back at the SEMA Show this year in Booth #80001 in the Silver Lot. In the interactive Shell V-Power NiTRO+ area, get up close to the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford NASCAR vehicle and experience the thrill of driving on a race track in one of Shell's high-end racing simulators. In addition, Shell scientists are on hand to discuss Shell's premium gasoline.
Perhaps best of all, Showgoers can visit this activation for the chance to win a ride along in the RTR Motorsports drifting vehicle piloted by a professional driver, plus more fantastic prizes and giveaways! Drop by the Shell Performance Unbound Experience this week to learn more.
OPTIMA Village and the OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational
Bronze Lot outside of Lower South Hall
The attendee-favorite OPTIMA Village returns to the SEMA Show with a new-for-2024 activation called OPTIMA Unleashed. Stop by the Bronze Lot outside of Lower South Hall to see this thrilling spectacle, a full-throttle experience with the raw power of roaring, finely tuned engines, the exhilarating scent of burning rubber in the air, and heart-pounding excitement as high-performance cars push their limits.
Nearly 100 vehicles are at OPTIMA Unleashed to be part of the OPTIMA Ultimate Street Car Invitational (OUSCI). Today, the opening day of the SEMA Show, the competing cars are parked front and center at OPTIMA Unleashed. They will be judged on the construction and modifications that enhance the look, performance or functionality of a stock vehicle while maintaining or enhancing the daily drive comfort features and accessories.
On Wednesday and Thursday, OPTIMA’s Bronze Lot track will host the Peak Performance Challenge. This is an acceleration and braking competition—a timed event that establishes the ability of the car and driver to accelerate, negotiate tight turns and stop in a designated spot.
Following the close of the SEMA Show on Friday, November 8, the OUSCI vehicles will roll out of the Bronze Lot to complete their road rally to Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where the remaining autocross and road course segments of the overall competition will be completed on Saturday, November 9.
SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers
Silver Lot, Booth #81218
This one-of-a-kind program needs to be witnessed in person at least once. Battle of the Builders is a coveted and popular program that helps attendees--and millions following the action online--to spot trends and see the latest techniques of some of the world's most influential vehicle builders. The action unfolds throughout the SEMA Week, with several events and promotions beginning today in the lead up to the crowning of the champion at the SEMA Cruise on Friday, November 8.
Last year, Andy Leach of CAL Automotive Creations secured the overall winner title with his '60 Buick Invicta Custom displayed in the CleanTools booth. The "X-60" was meticulously crafted by Leach and showcased concept-car styling, featuring a wedge-sectioned body adorned with machined brass trim. The unique chassis, complete with sculpted floors, is a one-off design boasting an I-beam style derived from an IFS and IRS. The car rides on nine-piece layered wheels and is powered by a 401 Nailhead motor equipped with a crank-mounted Procharger. Every component is scratch-built, including the handmade interior, which saw the trim machined to resemble what could have been a factory finish.
Stop by the Battle of the Builders booth today to see the rides before one takes home the 2024 Battle of the Builders title!
Foose Design
Silver Lot, Booth #81299
Back by popular demand, Chip Foose is once again providing the official art for the SEMA Show! Attendees can see Foose's artistry reflected throughout the Show, as well as the additional one-of-a-kind vehicle designs and renderings located on-site in this exclusive outdoor showcase. Who knows, maybe the legendary Chip Foose himself will be there!
Live RWB Build
Silver Lot, Booth #81290
In partnership with 503 Motoring and the SEMA Show, Akira Nakai of RWB (also known as Rauh Welt Begriff) Fame is building a '07 Porsche 997.1 GT3 into his latest work of automobile art live, in-person. It is the first GT3, outside of Nakai's personal car in Japan, to get the RWB wide-body treatment. This live and in-person build is underway NOW at the SEMA Show in the Silver Lot Booth #81290, and also includes other well-known RWB builds on display. Attendees can even get the opportunity to connect with the car owners while there!
Nitro Circus
Silver Lot
Nitro Circus is showcasing an electrifying demonstration all week featuring renowned Freestyle Motocross (FMX) athletes Keith Sayers, Luke Dolin, Willie Elam, Kieran Ursua and more, who are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in action sports. Nitro Circus and SEMA have enjoyed a long-standing partnership, thrilling fans for the past 10 years with jaw-dropping performances. This year's high-octane display is no exception, giving fans a taste of the adrenaline-packed experience Nitro Circus is famous for but on the SEMA Show campus.
You won't want to miss seeing these interactive activations this week at the 2024 SEMA Show. Visit semashow.com to see the SEMA Show floorplan, educational sessions, activations and more.