SEMA Show 2024 - Charging up the future

*Coverage by Matt Phillips and Jennifer Scheck 

The 2024 SEMA Show once again transformed Las Vegas into the global hub of automotive passion and innovation. With thousands of exhibitors and more than 160,000 attendees filling the Las Vegas Convention Center, the show floor and outdoor lots were alive with the sound of engines, the buzz of networking, and the energy of a community pushing the aftermarket forward. From the moment the doors opened, it was clear that SEMA remains the place where ideas, craftsmanship, and culture collide.

This year, the spotlight wasn’t just on horsepower—it was on how the aftermarket is adapting to the future. Electrification, advanced safety tech, and alternative powertrains were woven into displays across the show, proving that customization and performance aren’t limited by the type of fuel under the hood. Dedicated spaces like the FutureTech Studio emphasized how quickly new technology is being embraced, while the New Products Showcase offered a glimpse at the tools, parts, and accessories that will shape garages and builds in the coming years.

At the same time, builder culture remained the heartbeat of SEMA. The Battle of the Builders competition highlighted the artistry and engineering that continues to define the custom scene, while live demos and shop takeovers kept the crowds packed in. The show reaffirmed that, even as technology changes, the craftsmanship and creativity of builders remain the foundation of the industry.

The outdoor lots were a reminder that SEMA is more than a trade show—it’s a festival of car culture. With demos, stunt shows, and activations drawing huge crowds, the event blurred the line between industry showcase and entertainment spectacle. The sheer variety of styles on display—from motorsport-inspired builds to lifestyle-focused customs—proved that the aftermarket thrives on diversity and innovation.

What truly stood out about SEMA 2024 was the balance. Legacy performance culture—with its roots in muscle cars, stance, and high-output builds—stood side by side with emerging categories like electrified conversions and tech-driven upgrades. It wasn’t a matter of one replacing the other; instead, the show highlighted how both traditions and innovations can thrive together under one roof.

As the week wrapped up, one thing was certain: SEMA 2024 captured the spirit of an industry in motion. It was a celebration of where we’ve been and where we’re going, driven by creativity, community, and the relentless pursuit of what’s next in car culture. For builders, brands, and enthusiasts alike, the message was clear—this is only the beginning.