The 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers Top 4 Finalists: (Left to right) Connor McElvain, Young Guns; Bruce Yarnell, Sport Compact/Import Performance; Rob Lindsay, Off-Road; Noah Alexander, Hot Rod/Hot Rod Truck.
SEMA has announced the Top 4 finalists in the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers, the aftermarket industry's ultimate vehicle competition celebrating its second decade of providing builders a platform to showcase their craftsmanship and skills to a worldwide audience.
The Top 4 finalists reveal took place on Thursday on the SEMA Show stage in the Silver Lot Booth #81218 outside of Central Hall. Miss the fun? Don't worry: the action will continue today, November 8, with the announcement of the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers at 12:00 p.m. PST at the same location. Coverage is also expected on SEMA Live, the new-for-2024 live stream program on YouTube here, or on the SEMA Facebook here.
2024 SEMA BATTLE OF THE BUILDERS TOP 4
HOT ROD/HOT ROD TRUCK
Noah Alexander: '68 Dodge Charger Central Hall, #C07
SPORT COMPACT/IMPORT PERFORMANCE
Bruce Yarnell: '65 Aston Martin DB5, West Hall, #58135
As a hub for cutting-edge technology, fresh trends and groundbreaking products, the New Product Showcase was once again a must-see destination for 2024 SEMA Showgoers. With hundreds of companies displaying their latest advancements, it was the ultimate place to discover the latest tools, components and accessories setting new industry standards that impact your business.
For those who want a second look at a product that caught your eye, you can now browse the thousands of innovative products online at SEMAShow.com. Entered into 18 different categories, users can filter by product type, like off-road/4-wheel-drive, exterior accessories, merchandising display, tools and equipment, and even New Product Winners.
Browse the full New Product Showcase here, and see the full list of 2024 SEMA New Product Award winners below:
Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Product
WINNER: Revv ADAS Plus (Revv ADAS)
Runner Up:Revv ADAS Mechanical (Revv ADAS)
Runner Up: Solar Wireless Driving Assistant (Vision Automobile Electronics Industrial)
Collision Repair & Refinish Product
WINNER: I-CAR Academy (I-CAR)
Runner Up: SagolaSPRAY (Sagola by Elcometer)
Runner Up: RTS App (I-CAR)
Electric Vehicle Product
WINNER: Formosa VCU (Formosa EV)
Runner Up: Papp Plastics & Distributing Ltd.
Runner Up: Dakota Digital
Engineered New Product
WINNER: Velocity Commander Cruise Control (Dakota Digital)
Runner Up: E-LINK Electronic Sway Bar Links (Suspension Direct Inc.)
Runner Up: GM LT Engine Air to Water Intercooler Integrated Intake Manifold (ProCharger Superchargers)
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.
SEMA has announced that the SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award has been presented to Rancho Santa Margarita, California, custom car builders Blazin Rods for their '70 Chevrolet Chevelle.
The Chevelle--dubbed "Doughboy"--is powered by a twin-turbo Chevy-based big block delivering more than 2,800 hp and built utilizing multiple 3D-based design and printing techniques. Designed with the aesthetics of a GT Cup car, the car was designed, manufactured and assembled in-house using 35 custom CNC and 3D-printed parts, including its bespoke metal widebody.
"Our goal with Doughboy was to create a vehicle that not only turns heads but offers a driving experience unlike any other," said Riccardo Salatino, lead builder of Blazin Rodz. "We've pushed the boundaries in every aspect of this build, from the design to the engineering, and we're excited to show the world what we're capable of."
"It's absolutely exhilarating that just a couple of guys from a brand-new shop could build a car in such a short time that goes above and beyond, and get noticed," said Blazin Rodz Lead Fabricator Spencer Tanner. "Utilizing all of the technology, between printing, machining and CAD modeling, really allowed us to go insane. A lot of the stuff on the car, if it was to be done by hand, would be so time-consuming, and cost-wise, wouldn't make sense. That really allowed us [make] some really unique parts."
The annual SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award honors a featured vehicle at the SEMA Show that demonstrates exceptional engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or an aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond just physical appearance. It also 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.
The Blazin Rodz team accepts the 2024 SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle Award for "Doughboy," a '70 Chevrolet Chevelle.
Be sure to see the innovative '70 Chevelle in person at the Dynamat Booth #22693, Central Hall, now through the end of the 2024 SEMA Show.
Time is running out on the 2024 SEMA Show but there is still plenty to see—LIVE—from the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) Showfloor.
Once the Show floor opens at 9:00 a.m. PST, so too will "SEMA Live," a new-for-2024 virtual livestream giving enthusiasts all around the world the opportunity to witness trends on the SEMA Show floor. Watch the livestream on YouTube above (or here), or on the SEMA Facebook here.
For the first time ever, the SEMA Show is being streamed live online to give industry fans and enthusiasts an inside look at the aftermarket's exclusive trade-only event. Now through the end of the Show on Friday, November 8, viewers worldwide can tune in to SEMA Live on SEMA Show's YouTube and Facebook channels to experience the best of the SEMA Show as it takes over the LVCC grounds.
The action from the SEMA Live studio will be hosted by Chris Jacobs, joined by remote reporters Alliyah Becerra and JC Fernando, who will take viewers behind the scenes of the Show's top features directly from the LVCC grounds. Viewers can look forward to exciting vehicle reveals, exhibitor highlights, celebrity appearances, and exclusive interviews with industry leaders. Additionally, Adrienne "AJ" Janic will report from the SEMA Battle of the Builders stage, offering a glimpse into the competition that celebrates the best car builders from the automotive aftermarket.
Scheduled highlights:
Booth Highlights: See innovative exhibits from every hall on the SEMA Show campus.
Celebrity Interviews: Hear from automotive legends and personalities like Antron Brown, Chip Foose, TJ Hunt, Jay Leno and Richard Petty, to name a few.
Industry Leaders: Gain insight from Cam Douglas (OPTIMA Batteries), Rick Love (Vintage Air), Kim Mathers (Ford), and many more.
SEMA Battle of the Builders: Follow along to see the 40 finalists, their iconic builds, Top 12 judging, and see who wins the 11th annual Battle of the Builders competition.
Thrilling Activations: Get a glimpse into activations from Nitro Circus, OPTIMA Unleashed and Shell Performance Unbound.
Vehicle Reveals: Witness the debut of builds from Chip Foose, CTEK, Hemmings, Throtl, Ringbrothers and more.
Watch the live stream through Friday, November 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PST on the SEMA Show YouTubeandFacebookpages.
To learn more about the 2024 SEMA Show, visit semashow.com.
SEMA has announced the recipients of its Person of the Year, Content Creator of the Year and Robert E. Petersen Lifetime achievement awards. Presented on November 7 at the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet, these awards honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the automotive aftermarket industry over a yearlong period.
Person of the Year: Colby McLaughlin
2023 SEMA Person of the Year Ian Lehn (left) presents the award to 2024 winner Colby McLaughlin (center) alongside Industry Awards Banquet Host Jarod DeAnda.
McLaughlin, President of Trim Illusion Inc., was awarded Person of the Year for his exceptional contributions and leadership in the automotive aftermarket industry. As a volunteer of the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Select Committee for many years, he is now chair of the council, guiding PRO in creating valuable benefits that enhance the business practices and procedures of automotive restylers nationwide. In addition to his work with PRO, McLaughlin actively supports automotive education programs, has mentored aspiring designers and engineers, and generously contributes to charitable initiatives that benefit automotive enthusiasts and their families.
Content Creator of the Year: ChrisFix
ChrisFix accepts the award for SEMA Content Creator of the Year at the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet.
ChrisFix started his YouTube channel with the goal of helping people learn how to fix their car so they could save money and maybe even start a new hobby with cars. Since then, he has amassed 10.4 million subscribers on YouTube and has taught millions of people all over the world how to fix and maintain their car. Each video is a step-by-step, how-to style demonstration that he films, edits and publishes on his own. His content is concise with all of the essential information so anyone can follow along, from beginners to experts.
"SEMA is proud to recognize Colby and Chris for their contributions to the automotive aftermarket industry," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "Their contributions have offered solutions to many problems that SEMA members and automotive enthusiasts around the world face. We commend them for their passion, dedication to excellence, and overall positive industry influence."
Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award: Don Prudhomme
Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Don Prudhomme at the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet.
A drag racing legend, Prudhomme began his NHRA top fuel and funny car career in 1962, collecting the first of 49 career wins as a driver, good for fifth in NHRA history, and later became just the third owner/driver in series history to secure more than 100 total wins.
The SEMA Industry Awards are among the most prestigious honors given to individuals in the industry.
In 2025, the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet will move to Fontainebleau Las Vegas from the Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino, which has hosted the event since 1977. The SEMA Show is dedicated to evolving to provide a better event experience for industry members.
As the SEMA Show Week, now through Friday, November 8 in Las Vegas, intensifies, so are SEMA Education sessions. Attendees have been looking forward to some of these panels and sessions for weeks, and while many education sessions are free with SEMA Show registration, even the fee-based classes are proving to be priceless, according to the attendees SEMA News connected with at the event.
The panel on advanced fuels and powertrains explained how the automotive specialty-equipment industry can help reduce carbon emissions by adopting various fueling technologies as it relates to the operation of internal combustion engines (ICE), as well as the innovative powertrains that will work alongside of electrification.
Plus, panelists themselves are finding quality engagement from the audience, like chief of technology Grant Suzuki from Yamaha's marine division, who was one of the six-person panel on "Advanced Fuels and Powertrains: Current Landscape and Innovations."
"I think this is very valuable for us [to participate in SEMA Education as] industry leadership... you know, approaching and reaching out to the public to talk about and address the new future. New technology is very important," said Suzuki, whose presence on the panel showcased that the SEMA Show extends far beyond the reach of land vehicles. "The marine industry is really interested in being part of this whole SEMA ecosystem, so [I] really appreciate having us [here] today."
In the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) Booth #33139 in the Upper South Hall, attendees are experiencing the future of automotive technician training with hands-on simulations for electric vehicle (EV) repairs.
Carissa Davila, chief revenue officer from Flagship One Inc., attended the leadership workshop run by Dale Carnegie and shared that "it brought a lot of value. It gave me skills, especially within the position that I'm in right now. It's really hard, as a younger executive, to give instructions to people a lot older than me. That was one of the challenges that I expressed to [our speaker]. So it really helped when he let me know, 'Hey, this is passive. You want to be assertive and want to be aggressive.' And I feel like that was really easy [to learn].'"
Today is the last day to attend education sessions at this year's SEMA Show. Go to SEMAShow.com/education and add a class to your Show planner! For more information, visit semashow.com.
A trend on the SEMA Show floor this year is brighter colors, a move away from the more recent "monochroming" of American vehicles. See this specific build in the SEMA FutureTech Studio in Central Hall.
The 2024 SEMA Show, which continues today through Friday, November 8, had a stellar opening day yesterday with more than 2,400 brands and an estimated 150,000 attendees on the expansive Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) floor and surrounding outdoor areas, which are teeming with the latest vehicles, and automotive innovations and technology. Included among the countless product and vehicle unveilings on SEMA Show Day 2 was the continuation of SEMA Live, the new-for-2024 program providing industry fans and enthusiasts an inside look at the aftermarket's exclusive trade-only event. The industry is clearly hungry for this behind-the-scenes content, with the Day 1 stream coming in at nearly 55,000 views (watch the Day 1 live stream here and the Day 2 live stream here and below).
During the Wednesday SEMA Live program, viewers saw Marcy Yanus, SEMA senior director of member engagement, sharing details on the top-notch vehicles in the combined SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) and Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) display (Booth #23295 in Central Hall).
On the HRIA side of the display is a custom '32 Ford Roadster built by Chris Clark. This vehicle was so meticulously put together that it's also in the running for the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders competition. When asked how it felt to hear his car would be on the SEMA Show floor, Clark told SEMA Live host JC Fernando, "I was so honored. This is my first time at SEMA, and getting to be in this booth and also compete in the Battle of the Builders is amazing." (Editor's note: Clark's vehicle was among the 2024 SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Top 40. Follow along this week!)
Toyo Treadpass, a longtime favorite destination for SEMA Showgoers, premiered 26 unique vehicles, including this stunning bright red Mercedes convertible.
In addition, Dave Trask spoke about the '75 Chevrolet Nomad, which is a build that's 20 years in the making. "[This vehicle] has been a family project for about 20 years. In fact, we bought it before Riley was even born," he said, referring to his daughter, head of Riley's Rebuilds, a company founded by now 17-year-old Riley Schlick. "So we had seven high school girls who worked on the build for two days a week for the past four months." But don't miss the trunk of this build, which holds a special surprise: a fuel injection unit display straight from the experimental division of GM.
Among the lineup of ARMO vehicles is a '06 Mclaren-Mercedes, which was flown into the SEMA Show floor from the United Kingdom. Produced by Automotive LTD and MSO Special Operations Surrey, Yanus shared that the builder first ran into concerns with the owner of the car, so they purchased the vehicle themselves just to get it in their hands and to the SEMA Show. Attendees can see this one-of-a-kind burnt orange build with carbon fiber accents in the HRIA/ARMO booth.
Also on Wednesday's SEMA Live, MagnaFlow Group and industry legend Chip Foose took the opportunity to announce a new partnership: the introduction of Foose Performance products.
"It's an honor and pleasure [to announce this partnership with MagnaFlow]. I've been working with MagnaFlow for more than 20 years now, and they're always expanding [their offerings]. I'm proud to say we're going to be joining forces, and I will be developing more products with them. We're not going to tell you what they are yet because we want you to be surprised when we do release these."
See this '22 Jeep Gladiator by Ernie's Custom Shop in the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail located on the outside walkway between the North and West Hall of the LVCC.
A new-for-2024 activation is the SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Feature Vehicle Trail, with eight innovative builds located on the outside walkway between the North and West Hall of the LVCC. You can literally see the builders' passion and skills in these meticulous builds, which highlight the products, trends, business ideas and opportunities in the truck and off-road market.
See these vehicles on the 2024 TORA Feature Vehicles:
The 2024 SEMA Media Panel included (left to right) moderator Dan Neil, The Wall Street Journal, Jamie Butters of Automotive News, Sam Abuelsamid of Forbes and Mark Vaughn of AutoWeek.
The 2024 SEMA Media Panel on the SEMA Central Stage covered "The Rise of Used Car Sales and Vehicle Retention" and the implications for automakers and the aftermarket. It was a compelling discussion among moderator Dan Neil (Pulitzer Prize-winning automotive critic and columnist for The Wall Street Journal) and panelists Jamie Butters (Automotive News), Sam Abuelsamid (Forbes) and Mark Vaughn (AutoWeek).
Witness automotive history as the 2024 SEMA Show continues in the Las Vegas Convention Center through Friday, November 8. Find dozens of events and sessions that work best for your SEMA Show Week on the SEMA Show planner and SEMA Show app. For more information, visit semashow.com.
Today is the last day of the 2024 SEMA Show, but the action doesn't stop once the Showfloor closes. Don't miss out on SEMA Fest 2024 tonight on the SEMA Show Campus. Get your tickets before they sell out to join the ultimate car culture celebration featuring a packed concert lineup and thrilling automotive and action sports demonstrations from Nitro Circus and more.
Fans of speed, power and performance who attend SEMA Fest will experience:
Nitro Circus will perform an electrifying demonstration featuring renowned freestyle motocross (FMX) athletes Keith Sayers, Luke Dolin, Willie Elam, Kieran Ursua and more, who are set to push the boundaries of what's possible in action sports.
Shell Performance Unbound--experience the thrill of driving a race car in a Shell race simulator and enter to win a drifting experience!
The Best of the SEMA Show! Purchase a Friday Enthusiast Experience ticket and enjoy Battle of the Builders, Overland Experience, Ride With Us and much more!
This event is packed with excitement for adrenaline junkies and music lovers alike. Whether you're watching mind-blowing tricks or rocking out to your favorite tunes from Cage the Elephant, SUBLIME, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey, it's all happening tonight--and you won't want to miss it.
SEMA announced its Best New Products Award winners at the 2024 SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast. The awards are given to the most innovative and cutting-edge automotive aftermarket products that will be consumable in 2025.
More than 1,600 products were entered into the 18 different Showcase categories to be considered for a SEMA New Product Award this year. Winners were selected based on a variety of factors that included superiority of innovation, technical achievement, quality and workmanship, consumer appeal and marketability, and more.
The New Product Award Winners are:
Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Product
WINNER: Revv ADAS Plus (Revv ADAS)
Runner Up:Revv ADAS Mechanical (Revv ADAS)
Runner Up: Solar Wireless Driving Assistant (Vision Automobile Electronics Industrial)
Collision Repair & Refinish Product
WINNER: I-CAR Academy (I-CAR)
Runner Up: SagolaSPRAY (Sagola by Elcometer)
Runner Up: RTS App (I-CAR)
Electric Vehicle Product
WINNER: Formosa VCU (Formosa EV)
Runner Up: Papp Plastics & Distributing Ltd.
Runner Up: Dakota Digital
Engineered New Product
WINNER: Velocity Commander Cruise Control (Dakota Digital)
Runner Up: E-LINK Electronic Sway Bar Links (Suspension Direct Inc.)
Runner Up: GM LT Engine Air to Water Intercooler Integrated Intake Manifold (ProCharger Superchargers)
WINNER: Bolt-In Under-Dash Hydraulic Clutch & Pedal System C1 Corvette (Malwood USA / Under Dash Hydraulics)
Runner Up: Tap Shift Switch Module – Part # TSSB0317 (Holley Performance Brands)
Runner Up: Gen 5 Magnum Builder Series Plenum Assortment Kit (Vintage Air Inc.)
Tire and Related Product
WINNER: TrackAttack Pro (Hoosier Racing Tire)
Runner Up: Solus 4S HA32 (Kumho Tire USA)
Runner Up: JK Tyre #1 (JK Tyre)
Tools & Equipment Product
WINNER: GarageMax 3T Long Reach Electric Floor Jack (ROADTEK)
Runner Up: Slimline Billet Jack (Eddie Motorsports)
Runner Up: Hunter University (Hunter Engineering)
Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product
WINNER: Gen 7 2017+ Ford Crew Cab, Short Bed Power Stroke Diesel XXL Fuel Tank (Titan Fuel Tanks)
Runner Up: Truck Bed Organization Kit (Tmat Products)
Runner Up: Manager Alpha (REDARC)
Wheel and Related Product
WINNER: 2024+ Mustang R1 Wheel Kit -Bright Machined Matte Black DecoTech – 19”x10.5” – Front & 19”x11” - Rear (Ford Performance Parts & Accessories)
Runner Up: Ridler 681GGP (The Wheel Group)
Runner Up: MT Open 5 (Mickey Thompson Tires and Wheels)
You can see all the New Product Award winners--and thousands more of the latest and most exciting products hitting the aftermarket--all week in the New Product Showcase, a must-see destination for any SEMA Show attendee. Located in North Hall, the Showcase is the most popular exhibit at the Show and the epicenter of innovation in the specialty-equipment industry.
See a new product you'd like to learn more about? Use the SEMA Show mobile app's "Product Scanner" feature to scan the product and learn more, including additional product information, photos and the company's location on the Show floor.
Now at this year's event? View the 2024 New Product Showcase product here. Visit semashow.com to see the SEMA Show Floorplan, educational sessions, activations and more.
