By SEMA Editors
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. This year, the much-anticipated SEMA Overland Experience returns to the 2023 SEMA Show, October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas, promising attendees and media a thrilling journey into the expanding universe of overlanding, complete with fresh opportunities and insights. And lucky for you, some exhibitors have agreed to give SEMA News readers a sneak peek at their displays (more details below).
Nestled in the Diamond Lot adjacent to the West Hall, this year's SEMA Overland Experience boasts a new outside location that sets the stage for an immersive and customized environment. Paired perfectly with the West Hall's showcase of trucks, SUVs, off-road vehicles, powersports and utility vehicles, this Show feature promises to be a haven for enthusiasts and industry players alike.
As experts can attest, one of the most intriguing aspects of overlanding is its ability to transcend geographical boundaries. While overlanding has traditionally thrived in remote parts of the world, its popularity is surging across the nation. The SEMA Overland Experience is a testament to this trend, offering attendees a firsthand look at the latest products and vehicles explicitly tailored for the overlanding experience.
Another highlight is the presence of industry experts within the SEMA Overland Experience, who will identify key opportunities and trends within the market that can potentially open new vital profit centers for businesses. With their insights, automotive professionals can gain a comprehensive understanding of how to position themselves effectively in this dynamic landscape.
Of course, the builds of the SEMA Overland Experience will be nothing short of awe-inspiring (see a sneak peek, below). A plethora of customized vehicles will encompass everything from pop-top-equipped trucks to sprinter vans to specialty trailers, as well as a variety of recreational and utility gear, including refrigerators, storage racks and units, makeshift kitchens, solar chargers and other electronics designed to make off-the-grid travel for work and play fun, productive and convenient.
"The Overland Experience spells lots of opportunity for aftermarket companies looking to diversify and grow their offerings," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "More than just a display, this area acts as both an educational tool and a promotion zone for the burgeoning overlanding market. It's a chance to delve deep into the lifestyle and gear associated with this adventure-driven niche."
For businesses seeking a stake in the overlanding market, the SEMA Overland Experience provides a unique avenue for exposure. Limited opportunities exist to place static vehicle displays and showcase vehicles and trailers, offering a chance to put your offerings in the worldwide spotlight. SEMA thanks the current Overland Experience sponsors (in alphabetical order) American Expedition Vehicles, KW Automotive, LinksWell Automotive, LiquidSpring, Mackin Industries, ORACLE Lighting, Powerbuilt and Caterpillar, Scosche Industries and first-time exhibitor Winnebago.
To further explore these Overland Experience opportunities, contact SEMA Industry Sales Director Alan Josse at alanj@sema.org.
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.