SEMA 2009: A world of discovery (photos)

Flashy exhibits, cute hostesses and high-octane cars are everywhere to be found at SEMA. However, the most important part of the show is probably the less spectacular. It takes place in a small area with hundreds of smaller stands filled with technical products. Step in here and a world of discovery awaits you.


In the relatively-plain New Products Showcase, over 2,200 new products from the auto industry are showcased along with a short description. Every single one of them is evaluated by a jury in charge of selecting the year’s best new product. It can be a tool, a transmission part or some cool new electronic gadget.

After all, SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) aims to bring together manufacturers, distributors and buyers under one roof. Creators and designers of new products see the event as a golden opportunity to make themselves known and try to break through the market. The show is not open to the general public but manages to attract more than 100,000 industry leaders from over 100 countries.

For 2009, SEMA has embraced the green movement. A special section called "Making Green Cool Zone" is dedicated to the many new products and innovations designed with efficiency and environmental friendliness in mind.

John Waraniak, SEMA’s Vice President of Vehicle Technology, believes this part of the show is an absolute must. "If we had to keep only a few stands, these would be the ones. They allow young companies to make a name for themselves and products that would otherwise never exist a chance to find their way into garages," he says. "Through the years, hundreds of millions of dollars in manufacturing and distribution contracts have been signed thanks to SEMA and we’re convinced that this will again be the case in 2009."

Products on display are divided into the following categories: High performance, Current powertrains, Future powertrains, Energy management, Mobile electronics, Tires & wheels, Fuel economy, Styling and Green is cool!