If you have been around the automotive community, you’ve heard about the SEMA Show.
The first ever SEMA Show was held back in 1967 in the basement of Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. At that premier event that was open to the public, 98 manufacturers showcased their wares in booths for the nearly 3,000 attendees. Five cars were on display—one of which was a 1967 Ford GT40 in the Shelby America booth. The early Los Angeles shows were primarily card-table and masking-tape affairs, but by the 1970s, fancy displays and marketing were more visible throughout the show. At that time, a booth cost around $375.
SEMA is now an industry-only event held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, and it hosts more than 500 exhibitors and around 130,000 attendees. It is clear to see that it has become one of the staple shows in the industry. SEMA has always been where the aftermarket goes to show off the latest and greatest. I’ve always felt like you can see the trends and waves of the automotive culture if you pay attention to the show and what comes out of it.
In 2022, I was blown away by the number of classic Ford trucks. The level of craftsmanship is staggering. For years, we Ford truck fanatics have been asking the aftermarket for support. Well, if you were at SEMA, you saw how the tides are turning! More and more companies are developing new products and reinventing some of the older ones.
I’m excited to see what SEMA 2023 brings us this November. We will make sure to share all the best coverage with you!
… you can see the trends and waves of the automotive culture if you pay attention to [SEMA] and what comes out of it.