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Day 3 was our last day at SEMA 2009 -- and definitely not the most exciting day of the event. Of course, there are still thousands of exhibitors looking to strike a deal with the legions of potential buyers on hand. However, product launches are becoming excessively specialized, with the most interesting being some new suspension components.
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So what better time than now to venture into one of SEMA’s largest exhibits? Approximately 350,000 square feet of floor are dedicated to Tires & Wheels, from leading brands like Pirelli and Hankook to some obscure Korean imports trying to break through the North American market.
There are basically two big trends here -- green and sport. Following the introduction of the eco-friendly Scorpio Verde by Pirelli, several other manufacturers showcased similar alternatives.
On the other hand, many companies took advantage of SEMA to increase their participation in various motorsport series. Hankook, for instance, renewed its commitment to Formula Drift and will become the official sponsor of the U.S. team.
As for wheels, variety is also on the menu. Some are meticulously sculpted and hand painted; they cost thousands of dollars and you’ll find them exclusively on ultra-premium automobiles like Rolls-Royces or Lamborghinis. As if they didn’t draw enough stares already, they’re surrounded by a bunch of scantily-clad hostesses.
Into the wild
SEMA also has a section for off-road trucks and SUVs, not to mention all the off-road parts and accessories that go along with them.
Imagine a full range of roof tents that can be fitted to more than 150 different vehicles in just 20 minutes, manual or motorized winches that lift over the hood or roof, cargo organizers of all sorts as well as numerous Army or hunting body kits.
Finally, this section houses some real off-road monsters, including two-passenger ATVs designed for racing or recreation.
Oh, I almost forgot to tell you: a number of customized motorcycles that were selected as part of a design contest are on display not too far from here.
In the end, nothing really stood out on Day 3. It was business as usual, meaning a lot of flash and a lot of bang. Once again, SEMA delivers.
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photo:Philippe Champoux
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