SEMA 2017
Las Vegas, NVFriday, November 3, 2017
Once again, SEMA 2017 surpassed itself and lived up to being the largest automotive trade show in North America. The Specialty Equipment Market Association brings automotive businesses and people together, guiding you to what is trending in the automotive market and to see where that market is going in the near future.
The off-road market has exploded in recent years with the popularity of Jeeps and lifted 4x4 trucks, but now includes side by sides and ATVs. This growing trend has a very large aftermarket base and is expected to only get bigger. Fuel management systems for gasoline engines and diesel performance are also growing markets that seem likely to experience upward movement in the years to come as well. Small handheld devices are slowly replacing bulky computers. Chevrolet C10 trucks are really hot, and so are any parts for them. 3D printing has stolen the spotlight, with all of the possibilities for its use and the ability to print in many different materials now. The 3D printing option is much more affordable as well, which makes this appealing to small businesses looking to get into manufacturing. The hot rod and restoration markets are holding steady, and all these industries have many new products introduced to the market each year, which is a huge boost to the aftermarket industry as a whole.
All of the vehicles of SEMA get the most attention. The Battle of the Builders finalists was a great list of builders, but Troy Trepanier came out on top with his stunning 1929 Ford Model A Tudor. Troy Ladd’s 1936 Packard Roadster was a work of art and will certainly go on to win many awards to come. The Mothers Shine Award went to an absolute perfect 1930 Ford Model A Coupe called “Afterthought,” owned by Ted Hubbard and built by Cal Automotive Creations. The beautiful PPG Paleo-Historic Blue was sprayed by Charlie Hutton.
SEMA is a driving force for the automotive industry and can certainly guide you and your business in the right direction. The people involved are successful business leaders, know what it takes to get there and are happy to assist you with your goals as well.
Article and photos by: Allen Smith - Smitty’s Rod & Custom
Additional photos by: Robbie Smith – Smitty’s Rod & Custom