SEMA 2024: Unveiling the Best Builds From The Ultimate Car Show

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SEMA 2024: A Week in Automotive Paradise with Stance Auto Magazine

As a writer and car enthusiast with Stance Auto Magazine, attending the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show has always been a dream. This year, that dream became reality as I, Donnie Rochin, joined the Stance Auto Media Team to experience the “Super Bowl of car events” up close. What followed was an unforgettable week filled with incredible builds, high-octane energy, and connections that only SEMA could offer.

From pre-show chaos to the jaw-dropping finale, this is my firsthand account of SEMA 2024—an event that proves why it’s the pinnacle of automotive innovation and culture.

What Makes SEMA So Special?

SEMA isn’t just a car show—it’s an industry-defining event where automotive builders, brands, and enthusiasts come together to showcase the latest in creativity, technology, and craftsmanship. To even display a car here is a badge of honor. Every vehicle on the floor is an invitation-only masterpiece, representing the passion and dedication of its builder.

But SEMA is also a proving ground. Vendors race to display cutting-edge parts and concepts, and builders push the boundaries of what’s possible. From custom swaps and wild designs to restoring timeless classics, every corner of SEMA offers something to make your jaw drop.

The Chaos and Creativity of Roll-In

Day one kicked off with the organized chaos of roll-in. Known as the “SEMA Crunch,” this is when exhibitors race against the clock to set up their booths and finalize their displays. The energy in the air was electric as industry heavyweights like RACEWARS, Airlift Suspension, and HKS joined smaller builders to transform the Las Vegas Convention Center into an automotive wonderland.

As I walked through the halls, I saw cars being unloaded, polished, and positioned with precision. One exhibitor told me about a last-minute call to replace a car that dropped out—a not-uncommon occurrence during the frantic final hours. Despite the pressure, there was an undeniable camaraderie among builders, each committed to showcasing their best work. This atmosphere of mutual respect and shared passion is what makes SEMA so unique.

Exploring SEMA’s Four Massive Halls

Navigating SEMA is a marathon. With four massive halls—North, South, West, and Central—each offering something distinct, it’s impossible to see everything in one day. South Hall is a treasure trove of cutting-edge tools and shop equipment, perfect for mechanics and gearheads. Meanwhile, Central Hall is a builder’s paradise, where legendary brands and visionary creators unveil their most ambitious projects.

One standout was a dedicated section for electric vehicles, where restored classics like Porsches and muscle cars had been transformed into eco-friendly EVs. The craftsmanship in blending timeless aesthetics with modern sustainability was inspiring. But SEMA isn’t just about the future—it’s also a tribute to automotive heritage.

The Builds That Stole the Show

Over the week, I came across some of the most unforgettable cars I’ve ever seen. Here are just a few of the highlights:

1. A Mercedes CLS 55 AMG with VIP Style

This 2006 Mercedes CLS 55 AMG, owned by @2clssymama, turned heads with its chameleon wrap and Ferrada wheels. The carbon fiber accents added a bold edge to its VIP aesthetic. When I met the owner, her pride was evident, and she revealed that following Stance Auto Magazine inspired her build. It was moments like this that made the trip personal.

2. A Radical 2017 Honda Civic Type R

Mike Orsino’s 2017 Honda Civic Type R redefined what’s possible for this model. Wrapped in purple with custom Savini Forged wheels, it stood out even more with its suicide rear doors—a seamless modification that looked factory-made. This car didn’t just turn heads; it redefined expectations.

3. The Mistress and the Jigalo

A husband-and-wife team brought two classic Fords that left me speechless. The 1934 Ford 3-Window Coupe, nicknamed The Mistress, and the 1931 Ford Model-A, dubbed The Jigalo, were immaculate down to their polished undercarriages. Their humor and passion for their cars were contagious, and they hinted at a new project, cheekily named “The Bastard Child.”

The Magic of Toyo Treadpass

Toyo Treadpass is the heart of SEMA for stance enthusiasts. Its pristine white backdrops and perfectly curated displays make it feel like an art gallery for cars. This year, the standout for me was an old-school Nissan Skyline in deep green with a wide-body kit and a tucked, chromed engine bay. It was the epitome of perfection and easily became my dream car.

Other highlights in Treadpass included a pristine 240Z, a custom-chopped E30, and two wide-body Porsches. The attention to detail in these builds was staggering—every paint job flawless, every engine bay spotless.

Adrenaline-Fueled Moments: Honda Racing and RTR Drift Pit

The Honda Racing (HRC) booth showcased an awe-inspiring lineup of race cars, from rally beasts to F1 models. The energy was infectious, and just standing near these machines made my pulse race. It was a testament to Honda’s legacy in motorsports.

Nearby, the RTR drift pit stole the show with Vaughn Gittin Jr., James Deane, and Ben Hobson burning rubber. Watching these pros drift with pinpoint precision was exhilarating. Being close enough to feel the heat from the tires made it an unforgettable experience.

The Finale: Public Day and Uniting Enthusiasts

The final day of SEMA opened to the public, creating a buzz unlike any other. Massive crowds gathered to see iconic builds like Han’s Fast and Furious 240Z and Gas Monkey’s six-wheeled Hummer. The RaceWars booth was a standout, where Jeff, the owner, shared how his brand was gaining traction with industry giants.

One of my favorite stories came from the HKI Air booth, where a Scion FRS in Tiffany blue stole the spotlight. The owner’s tale of finding 17 mice in the headliner during the “SEMA Crunch” reminded me of the grit and determination behind every build.

SEMA’s Legacy: More Than a Car Show

As the week came to a close, I was exhausted but inspired. SEMA isn’t just a showcase of cars; it’s a celebration of the people who pour their hearts into their builds. It’s about connections—between builders, brands, and enthusiasts—and the shared passion that drives the automotive world forward.

Walking out of the convention center, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. For anyone who loves cars, SEMA is a must-see. It’s not just an event; it’s a movement that continues to shape the future of automotive culture.

Here’s to 2025—because I already can’t wait to do it all again.

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