SEMA News—January 2020
EVENTS
By Chad Simon
Latest Innovations on Display at the 2019 SEMA Show
Showcase Helps Exhibitors Launch Their Products Into the Marketplace
The New Products Showcase is routinely the number-one destination for SEMA Show buyers and media, giving participating exhibitors a distinct advantage in getting their products out to the world. The 2019 SEMA Show surpassed 3,000 products across 16 different categories, including street-performance, racing, off-roading, mobile-electronics and exterior and interior products. Three of the 16 categories were won by first-time exhibitors, indicating that the industry is healthy and continuing to grow.
Entries were eligible for SEMA New Product Awards in which a panel of automotive professionals selected one winner and two runners-up from each category. The results were announced at the New Products Breakfast held before the opening of the 2019 SEMA Show.
Following are the best new products from the 2019 SEMA Show.
Collision Repair & Refinish Product WinnerSociety of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) The SCRS Blueprint Optimization Tool software is an automated version of the Guide to Complete Repair Planning. The application provides collision repair facilities with an intelligent, easy-to-use estimate analysis tool. It immediately identifies labor operations, line items and customizable charges that could be overlooked on an estimate. 877-841-0660 |  |
Collision Repair & Refinish Product Runner-UpGuniwheel According to the company, the Guniwheel is said to be the world’s first universal vehicle and trailer mounting system with a tire and wheel design. Can be used as an alternative to jack stands and mounts to keep vehicles in a mobile state, safely and securely mounted to the wheel hub. The Guniwheel 45 for four- and five-lug patterns increases productivity and revenue in body shops, dealerships, tire stores and more. 404-457-4018 |  |
Collision Repair & Refinish Product Runner-UpSpray Booth Services Poor airflow in a spray booth will cost money by minimizing the amount of jobs completed and extra time from polishing defects. This proprietary monitoring system checks the airflow of the booth(s) and emails the user when there are issues. If not fixed, the system sends a follow-up email to a second email address. Includes 24/7 online portal. |  |
Engineered New Product WinnerModern Driveline Modern Driveline Hydraulic Clutch Master Cylinder Conversion kit for ’94–’04 Mustangs is said to be an industry first. Converts a sticky, inconsistent stock cable clutch release to a smooth, linear pedal actuation that provides modern-car feel and performance. Easy no-drilling installation. Works with SOHC and DOHC modular engines. Made in the U.S.A. |  |
Engineered New Product Runner-UpAutoMeter The new InVision Direct Fit Digital Dash System for ’73–’87 Chevy C-10s is a one-model solution for the entire dash. Monitor the speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, oil pressure, water temperature and volts all in one place. Upgrade a worn, outdated or inaccurate dash with the latest modern LCD offering from AutoMeter. 866-248-6356 |  |
Engineered New Product Runner-UpGSI Machine & Fabrication GSI’s complete air ride chassis for ’88–’98 OBS (old-body style) single-cab 2WD truck. Engineered for the best ride quality and performance for an airbagged fullsize truck. Designed from the ground up with all-new suspension geometry and modern drivetrain adaptability, keeping large-diameter wheels and most aftermarket engine accessories in mind. 480-940-1806 |  |
Exterior Accessory Product WinnerCurt Group: Curt, Aries, Luverne, UWS BetterWeigh wirelessly links to a smartphone to display real-time vehicle and trailer weights. It easily plugs into any standard vehicle diagnostic port (OBD-II) and uses Bluetooth to connect to an Apple or Android phone. It sends live weight readouts of the vehicle, trailer, cargo/ payload, tongue weight, pin weight and weight distribution. 877-287-8634 |  |
Exterior Accessory Product Runner-UpDee Zee Dee Zee’s innovative Hex Series designs have expanded to roof racks for Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator. The rack covers both the front and rear of the roof, mounting to the existing drip rails. The crossbars can be moved forward and backward for the perfect mounting location of light accessories, bikes, tents and more. Two size options available. |  |
Exterior Accessory Product Runner-UpRSI SmartCap SmartCap is said to be the world’s first stainless-steel five-piece modular truck cap that seamlessly integrates with the SmartSystem of accessories, giving consumers more control over managing their cargo. It installs in under an hour and can be purchased online, flat-packed and shipped to a consumer’s home or a jobber, changing how truck caps are bought and sold. 775-636-9664 |  |
Interior Accessory Product WinnerAutoMeter The new InVision Digital Dash is a one-model universal solution for the entire dash. Monitor the speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, oil pressure, water temperature and volts all in one place. Upgrade a worn, outdated or inaccurate dash with the latest modern LCD offering from AutoMeter. 866-248-6356 |  |
Interior Accessory Product Runner-UpSpeed Dawg Shift Knobs Said to be the first-ever precision-machined, black-anodized transmission and transfer case shifter adapter set developed to enable engagement of the new Jeep JL factory reverse lockout and two MOPAR officially licensed Jeep and Wrangler logo high-impact shift knobs with brass threads and smooth surface inlaid graphics that never wear off. Made in the U.S.A. 717-741-2665 |  |
Interior Accessory Product Runner-UpCoverking Engineered to improve the finish quality of a Jeep’s hardtop while also making the ride more comfortable. Molded to fit all contours perfectly, the polycarpet panels also insulate from outside temperatures and improve acoustics. 714-850-0303 |  |
Merchandising Display WinnerDee Zee The display is packaged in a plain brown box for shipping. 515-265-7331 |  |
Merchandising Display Runner-UpStoner Car Care Invisible Glass Clean & Repel Washer Fluid Additive comes in a display tray of 36 single-use bottles. Header card easily slides into the rear of the tray, creating an eye-pleasing countertop display, perfect for a detailing shop, a retail store or a car-wash store. 800-227-5538 |  |
Merchandising Display Runner-UpHypertech Freestanding display designed to show off the use of the products and fitment and quality. Most importantly, customers can imagine the items installed in their UTVs. After all, the goal is for the customer to purchase from your store. 901-385-1888 |  |
Mobile Electronics Product WinnerVAIS Technology SEER (Smart Entry Exit Recognition) is a patent-pending auto-integration device for automated door locking at driver’s departure; unlocking when driver is approaching; hands-free liftgate opening/closing; safe illuminated entry; and four inputs/outputs that are fully customizable to trigger other electronic vehicle accessories based on driver proximity. 720-733-2348 |  |
Mobile Electronics Product Runner-UpAAMP Global The EchoMaster Third Brake Light Camera is one camera with three viewing angles: truck bed and side blind-spot views. The left and right blind-spot views automatically activate when using a turn signal. The ultra-low LUX video sensor provides superior day and night use. Currently available for select Ford, General Motors and Ram trucks. 800-477-2267 |  |
Mobile Electronics Product Runner-UpSony Car Audio Sony’s XAV-AX8000 has an oversized 8.95-in. touchscreen display and is compatible with Apple Carplay and Android Auto. The sturdy and adjustable mount works in three directions and allows flexible installation in a variety of vehicles. 800-538-7550 |  |
Off-Road/4-Wheel-Drive Product WinnerICON Vehicle Dynamics ICON’s ’20–Up Jeep Gladiator JT suspension system includes 6061 billet-aluminum control arms, triple-rate coil springs, and 2.5 aluminum series shocks with vehicle-specific tuning and CDC valve. These suspension components provide up to a 33% increase in wheel travel while dramatically improving on-road ride quality and off-road performance. 951-689-4266 |  |
Off-Road/4-Wheel-Drive Product Runner-UpDana Inc. Ultimate Dana 60 axles are engineered to be direct-fit, bolt-in solutions for the front and rear axles on the Jeep Gladiator JT. Ultimate Dana 60 rear axles can withstand the extreme punishment of extreme off-roading. They are available in 3.73, 4.10, 4.88 and 5.38 ratios and come with an Eaton E-Locker or an ARB Air Locker. 877-777-5360 |  |
Off-Road/4-Wheel-Drive Product Runner-UpHaulGauge/Garage Smart Garage Smart is a product for people who use the garage as a launch pad for adventure and a place to get work done. Garage Smart is a home automation and uses Bluetooth via smart device. The product safely lifts and stores a Jeep hardtop, truck tops, fifth-wheel hitches, bikes and paddle-sports products. Powered by smartphone apps. 833-762-7896 |  |
Packaging Design WinnerAnest Iwata USA The dark and mysterious Iwata Vault sleeve showcases a limited-release specialty airbrush using minimal multi-lingual copy, photos and info graphics. The airbrush and its accessories are stored securely inside the reusable Iwata-branded paper box. 503-253-7308 |  |
Packaging Design Runner-UpInurzone The world’s most innovative tool management system: Neato clamp, work light and work light holder, phone holder, magnet board, magnet tub and funnel. All designed to give users an extra set of hands while they are actively working with hand tools, increasing efficiency and improving productivity matched with safety. |  |
Packaging Design Runner-UpDrake Automotive Group This design is reserved for the toughest parts, ones expected to not only survive but overcome the most challenging environments. The packaging is meant to represent the efforts to produce a part that deserves the title of severe duty. 855-776-3674 |  |
Performance-Racing Product WinnerTurbosmart Turbosmart introduces electronic wastegates. Said to be the world’s first electronic Gen-V e-WG60 wastegate. Provides the kind of control never seen before, without the need for compressed gas or boost hoses. No need for changing springs, no need for complex solenoid hook-up methods. Boost control is now simpler, faster and completely adjustable from a laptop. 909-476-2570 |  |
Performance-Racing Product Runner-UpNitrous Express These billet-aluminum water/methanol Boost Cooler Rings mount in line with cold side intake piping, providing a secure and attractive way to cool a boosted air charge. Rings include pre-bent hard lines and all fittings needed to complete the installation. Available in 2.5-, 3-, 3.5- and 4-in. versions. 940-767-7694 |  |
Performance-Racing Product Runner-UpLingenfelter Performance Engineering Lingenfelter’s billet aluminum, pulse dampening, direct injection, high-volume check valve is required in high-horsepower, high-fuel-flow applications, eliminating low-side fuel-volume restrictions and pressure drop, which causes DI high-side pump failure. It also prevents common in-car noise from fuel line reversion. 260-724-2552 |  |
Performance-Street Product WinnerAeromotive Inc. Aeromotive’s 5-gpm TVS Brushless Fuel Pump with onboard TVS (true variable speed) Controller provides unmatched fuel flow at full speed while allowing pump speed reduction and flow control using a simple 0–5-VDC analog input at the pump. Automatically reduce flow during low demand (street driving), keeping the fuel tank cooler over long drives. 913-647-7300 |  |
Performance-Street Product Runner-UpTire Stickers TPMS is now obsolete. Cerebrum is said to be the world’s first smart tire system utilizing revolutionary sensor technology mounted directly to the tire. Cerebrum sensors provide advanced tire pressure and temperature data to the vehicle ECU as well as tread depth, alignment and tire performance data to the operator through the convenient mobile application. 424-272-0321 | |
Performance-Street Product Runner-UpUS Gear US Gear says that its new Stealth Series gears utilize the most advanced gear cutting technology. The new design creates a continuous and consistent cut on all teeth of the ring-and-pinion. Stealth Series features and benefits include stealthy, quiet-without-compromising strength, maximized tooth contact, consistent and wider pattern and easier setup. 616-828-9434 |  |
Powersports Product WinnerSSV Works Listen to music through four overhead speakers pumping out 200 watts of internal power. This system also offers the capability of adding more speakers and amplifiers by utilizing two additional high-level and/or low-level channels. Bolts on using factory vehicle mounting points. Rugged UV-treated polymer enclosure protects from the harsh elements. 818-991-1778 |  |
Powersports Product Runner-UpHypertech Hypertech’s four-point, 2-in. safety harness is designed specifically to work with narrow UTV seats and space. Shoulder straps have integrated pull-down adjusters, pockets and padding. The L-shaped shoulder and lap-belt design reduces the hassle of strapping in and exiting. Designed for no pinching or shoulder discomfort. Enjoy a safe and comfortable ride. 901-385-1888 |  |
Powersports Product Runner-UpTSI Products Inc. Features include variable fan speed to enhance passenger comfort, temperature control to achieve maximum vehicle comfort, and four adjustable vents to customize directional airflow for both driver and passenger. Kit includes all components needed to complete installation. Ease of installation under dash. 800-521-2997 |  |
Street Rod/Custom Car Product WinnerDakota Digital The RTX series is the latest from Dakota Digital, focused on retaining a stock look without sacrificing the late-model features users love. Every effort has been put forth to incorporate OEM design elements regarding the layout, face styling and indicators. CNC-machined engine-turned bezel to provide a timeless look with modern technology. 800-852-3228 |  |
Street Rod/Custom Car Product Runner-UpLokar Inc. Top off a vintage-look LS swap with Lokar’s LS Classic Distributor and Plug Wire Set. The LS Classic Distributor and Plug Wire Set includes a hollow cast-aluminum distributor body that allows users to pass the plug wires from remote-mounted coils through the distributor and then on to the sparkplugs, creating a true vintage look. 877-469-7440 |  |
Street Rod/Custom Car Product Runner-UpSpeedway Motors The Deluxe LS Swap Fuel Filter/Regulator no longer comes with unreliable adapter fittings and OE-style plastic quick disconnects. This regulator now has the correct fittings built into the assembly. Engineered to work in returnless-style LS-swap fuel systems. AN6 inlet/outlet/return, preset 58-psi fuel pressure, full-flow inline design. 402-323-3200 |  |
Tire and Related Product WinnerYokohama Tire Rugged gets redefined with Yokohama’s new Geolandar X-AT extreme all-terrain tire. The X-AT is available in 27 sizes, ranging from 15 to 22 in. It offers ultimate off-road performance without sacrificing on-road comfort, making it a great performance upgrade for a variety of pickups and SUVs, no matter how or where they’re driven. 800-423-4544 |  |
Tire and Related Product Runner-UpYokohama Tire Yokohama’s ultra-high-performance heritage rolls on with the new Advan Apex. Made for the North American market, the Y-rated Apex comes in 44 sizes, with 17- to 20-in. fitments for a wide range of sports cars, high-end performance vehicles and American muscle cars. The Apex has a 25,000-mi. limited tread warranty (12,500 mi. on staggered fitments). 800-423-4544 |  |
Tire and Related Product Runner-UpYokohama Tire For luxury SUV and crossover owners, there haven’t been a lot of choices for replacement tires—until now. Yokohama Tire’s new Geolandar X-CV fills the need with 23 W-speed-rated sizes, covering nearly all 18- to 22-in. luxury SUV/crossover fitments. 800-423-4544 |  |
Tools and Equipment Product WinnerTrac Tire Rotation Assistance Cart The Trac Tire Rotation Assistance Cart is a tool to assist with the removal and installation of the wheel/tire assembly on or off of a vehicle. The cart rolls under the tire and supports the weight of the tire, allowing the technician to not have to lift the wheel/tire from the vehicle, saving his/her back. 720-231-1839 |  |
Tools and Equipment Product Runner-UpBadass Workbench A 6-ft. long x 37.5-in. high x 32-in. deep workbench. Has Leg levelers for uneven floor; powdercoated drawers and frame; 450-lb.-capacity drawers; and 3/8-in.-plate steel top with a backsplash. Additional options include: four casters; receiver tubes (either end or both); a powdercoated pegboard; keyed locks; lock bars; a vise (slide in or traditional mount); powdercoated top; and 1/2-in. fat top (72-in. long x 36-in. deep). 866-547-1123 |  |
Tools and Equipment Product Runner-UpMakeit Inc. Handcrafted in SoCal, this model is designed for the auto industry to accommodate 3-D printing of big parts such as hoods/spoilers/wings. Key features include massive 54x24x31 heated rectangular print area, auto-leveling, remote control via smartphone, enclosed and on-wheel. An ideal shop tool to make prototypes/master molds/jigs and fixtures in-house faster and cheaper. 626-500-5380 |  |
Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product WinnerRSI SmartCap SmartCap is said to be the world’s first stainless-steel five-piece modular truck cap that seamlessly integrates with the SmartSystem of accessories, giving consumers more control over managing their cargo. It installs in under an hour and can be purchased online, flat-packed and shipped to a consumer’s home or a jobber, changing how truck caps are bought and sold. 775-636-9664 |  |
Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product Runner-UpBestop Premium Accessories Group Organize and secure dirty adventure gear in the bed and keep the interior clean. With easy access from outside the bed, the large storage areas allow users to bring what they need for every outing. Tie-downs allow the included nylon net to restrain gear in the main bed. and dividers keep gear in place internally. Fast installation with no drilling. 800-348-8339 |  |
Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product Runner-UpBuiltRight Industries The Bedside Rack System installs on the inside walls of the bed of the new Jeep Gladiator and provides a modular mounting platform for the easy storage of gear, tools and other equipment. Installation is entirely bolt-on and takes just minutes. Invented by Matt Beenen, the Winner of the 2018 SEMA YEN Launch Pad competition. 203-546-8981 |  |
Wheel and Related Product WinnerTopline Products As the newest introduction into the Chase Series from V-Rock Offroad Wheels, the VR16-Raid features an innovative Race Ring designed to simulate a bead-lock design. A deep lip flows into notched and cutout spokes for an aggressive stance. The VR16-Raid is available in 18x10, 20x10, 20x12 and 22x12 in. satin-black finish. 909-628-7500 |  |
Wheel and Related Product Runner-UpThe Wheel Group/Wheel-1 Cali Offroad, Gemini. Shown in highly polished with milled spokes. Also available in gloss black with milled accents The Gemini is the company’s take on a classic mesh wheel with a modern twist. Available in 20x9, 20x10, 20x12, 22x12 and 24x14 for all popular five-, six- and eight-lug applications. 626-363-1676 |  |
Wheel and Related Product Runner-UpThe Wheel Group/Wheel-1 Mayhem Voyager. Displayed in dark bronze. The newest flow-formed addition to the family. This overland-inspired wheel is designed to reliably deliver whatever wild destination the user has in mind—and do it in style. Also available in matte black. It is offered in all popular five- and six-lug applications. 626-363-1676 |  |
