SEMA - October 31st - November 3, 2006

The SEMA Show, the annual showcase of technology, trends and products for the $34 billion automotive accessories industry was held at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
This year’s exclusive event, open only to verified industry professionals and media, featured more than 2,000 exhibitors in over one million square feet of space. More than 100,000 trade professionals attended. 

Brand Highlights

OEMs had a huge official presence at the show. DaimlerChrysler, Ford, General Motors, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Scion, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, Volkswagen, and American Honda all had vehicles on display. Additionally these companies provided unprecedented access to engineers and data to foster great business to business opportunities for aftermarket manufacturers.

New Products on Show

Over 1,400 never-before seen products were displayed in the New Products Showcase. Categories that had the most new products included wheels, performance packages, and mobile electronics. Hybrids continue to evolve and two took center stage with Jay Leno and Ed Begley, Jr. behind the wheels.

Licensing Trends and Thoughts

With a market shift towards consumers who are looking to personalize their new cars, trucks and SUVs, aftermarket manufacturer’s relationships with OEMs are providing auto dealers and accessory shops new revenue streams.Three emerging youth culture trends are making a big impact in the specialty industry these days. Donks—Inspired by the rags-to-riches hip-hop culture, owners take 70’s, 80’s and 90’s domestic sedans and trick them out with custom interiors, paint, monster tires and engine modifications. Rat rods—Stripped down anti-street rods with every non-essential part chopped. The only money goes into the engine and it’s on display for all to see. Drifting—Huge in Japan, the hottest new development in U.S. extreme motorsports. These trends and others offer OEMs and aftermarket brands the opportunity for big sales now and the chance to build customer loyalty.

There is a growing presence of Chinese manufacturers, from cleaning accessories all the way up to very expensive performance packages.