autoMedia Auto News Blog : SEMA

SEMA: Chevrolet Camaro Synergy Green Machine

admin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:22:00 GMT

The halls and exterior space surrounding the Las Vegas Convention Center was awash in customized, high-performance machines last week at the Specialty Equipment Market Association ( SEMA ) show. Among the hundreds of project cars, the redesigned Camaro was well represented, with the 2010 Yenko Camaro , Lingenfelter Trans Am Concept , and twin-turbocharged Jay Leno Camaro all made their public debut. Among the many other show cars, the Camaro Synergy stood out as the ultimate green machine. Not, not some tree-huggin', hybrid, but literally green. While it may not have a celebrity name attached to it, this official Chevrolet project car showcases a striking new exterior color that will be available in the first half of 2010. Think of it as a counterpoint to the upcoming Plum Crazy Dodge Challenger . The Synergy also showcased a variety of add-on accessories being considered for market through the GM Performance Catalog and local dealerships. The makeover is handsome, with a ground effects kit, Cyber Grey hood stripes, high-wing rear spoiler, and 21-inch wheels with a black center. The car is further enhanced with aftermarket goodies that include a Peddars coil-over lowering kit and...(read more)

SEMA: 2010 Yenko Camaro Unveiled

admin — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 02:54:00 GMT

With the massive Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), there are performance vehicles of all stripes, but only one has the distinctive Yenko stripes. As previewed in the autoMedia blog , General Marketing Capital Incorporated ( GMCI ) showed a 2010 Yenko Camaro Prototype based on a Camaro SS . The Phase 1 Yenko boasts a supercharger to boost output to 600 horsepower, Tremec six-speed manual transmission, Hurst short-throw shifter, six-piston big brake package, and Magnaflow high-flow cat-back exhaust system. The appearance is given the full Yenko treatment with the essential, distinctive strips, emblems, and retro-styled 22-inch aluminum wheels. The interior features Yenko Super Car (sYc) embroidered headrests, Yenko/SC sill plates, Yenko/SC embroidered floor mats, and more. GMCI is exploring options for producing more Yenko project cars and product lines. It is also developing a Web site to support the business and nurture a Yenko community. The name Yenko is legendary in muscle car circles, with classic Yenko Camaros demanding 10-times the price as a traditional factory car at major auctions. It was Don Yenko who was responsible for creating the Yenko Stinger Corvair, Yenko...(read more)

SEMA: Lingenfelter Trans Am Concept

admin — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:50:00 GMT

Respected tuning house Lingenfelter Performance Engineering ( LPE ) unveiled a back-to-the-future muscle car with its T/A concept at the 2009 SEMA show . Certain to turn heads, the reborn Trans Am applies classic Pontiac cues to a 2010 Camaro , then cranks up the volume with abundant performance upgrades. The result is a clear example of what could have been, where it not for the auto industry crisis . Inspired by the 1969 original, the exterior makeover features a new front fascia with custom headlamps, grille, and turn signals. The car's fender has a functional side extractor scoop and the rear quarter has a leading edge wheel flair. The rear corners of the car have been extended nearly four inches and are finished with a wrapped down stand-up spoiler. Custom-created taillight housings complete the body work. The rolling stock is custom 20-inch honeycomb wheels wrapping in 275/40ZR20 front and 315/35ZR20 rear Nitto tires. Inside, the cockpit is dressed with bright blue woven vinyl seat inserts and metal turned instrument panel accents. As with any LPE project, there is serious underhood alchemy with the T/A concept. The engine is built around a custom Racing Head Service (RHS...(read more)

SEMA: Tuner-Ready Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T R-Spec

admin — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 15:18:00 GMT

Hyundai flirted with the import performance crowd with the Tiburon , but the Korean-automaker is pink-slip serious about appealing to the aging “The Fast and Furious” crowd with its latest coupe. The new, rear-drive Genesis Coupe is a well-executed sporty car with impressive fit-and-finish and decidedly performance-driver bent. For those enthusiasts with a passion for customization and factory-besting performance, Hyundai is introducing the 210-horsepower Coupe 2.0T R-Spec at the Specialty Equipment Market Association ( SEMA ) Show this week. Consider this new edition as a blank slate for tuners. Priced at just $23,750, it gives enthusiasts an affordable head start on their wrench-turning adventures. The hardware is based on the Track model, with the track-tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, and Torsen limited-slip differential. It also adds a set of front strut camber adjustment bolts to further enhance initial turn-in and handling response. R-Spec comes only with a manual transmission. While it has the performance goodies, the R-Spec eliminates “non-essential” features for both cost and, to a lesser degree, weight, including Bluetooth, automatic headlights, cruise control...(read more)

Chrysler To Offer Live, Mobile TV In Cars And Trucks

admin — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 03:04:00 GMT

Too much time spent watching television may rot your brain, but video entertainment on the road can make long trips pass by more quickly for all aboard. A clever new digital pacifier will be available on select Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models starting late December providing live television on the go. And, with 20 channels to select from, there will be much more than cartoons to entertain travelers. Where previous mobile television systems have focused on the kids, Chrysler is touting a broad selection of cable-type channels that includes CBS Mobile, CNBC, Comedy Central, FOX News, MSNBC, MTV, NBC 2Go, and Nickelodeon. The Flo TV system will cost $629 plus installation, and it includes one-year service subscription. Offered as a Mopar accessory, the entertainment package will be available as a dealer-installed option on the following 2008-2010 model year vehicles with factory DVD entertainment systems: Chrysler Town & Country , Jeep Grand Cherokee , Jeep Commander , Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Journey , Dodge Nitro , Ram 1500 and Ram 2500/3500. The service also can be added to select 2008-2010 model-year vehicles when new Mopar headrest or seat-top DVD entertainment systems are...(read more)

Legend Reborn: 2010 Yenko Camaro At SEMA Show

admin — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 02:47:00 GMT

As the fifth-generation 2010 Chevrolet Camaro recalls the classic 1967-1969 original, it is only natural that the most legendary Camaro return, as well. At the upcoming Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) next week, General Marketing Capital Incorporated (GMCI) will show a 2010 Yenko Camaro Prototype certain to bring an instant grin to any bowtie enthusiast. The prototype is based on a Camaro SS that has been upgraded to a “Phase 1” Yenko. Initial information shows the transformation includes a supercharger to boost output to 600 horsepower, Tremec six-speed manual transmission, Hurst short-throw shifter, six-piston big brake package, and Magnaflow high-flow cat-back exhaust system. The appearance is given the full Yenko treatment with the essential, distinctive strips, emblems, and retro-styled 22-inch aluminum wheels. The interior features Yenko Super Car (sYc) embroidered headrests, Yenko/SC sill plates, Yenko/SC embroidered floor mats, and more. Production will include Phase II and III offerings with greater power increases and more aggressive chassis upgrades. Today, original Yenko Camaros command head-spinning prices. Rest assured, this will not be an inexpensive package...(read more)

Modified 2010 Ford Mustangs Corralled at SEMA Show

admin — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 01:59:00 GMT

In just a few more days, the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) will open its doors in Las Vegas, showcasing the latest aftermarket components and high-performance project cars. The event allows manufacturers to meet with wholesalers, establishing new business and continuing partnerships. For those in the media, it is a chance to learn about the latest chromed widgets, emerging product trends, and fuel our automotive fantasies. To that end, Ford will be celebrating the Mustang’s 45th anniversary with a diverse herd of modified Mustangs. (See our 2010 Ford Mustang review .) The Mustang is the most customized car in the $31.8 billion aftermarket industry. As proof, it is hard to find a stock Mustang outside a rental fleet. Daresay, the vast majority of pony cars are customized in some way. Ford even makes it easy with an online customizer , and an abundant catalog of cosmetic and go-fast goodies. In the aftermarket, there is a vast array of offerings from dedicated, talented companies. Some of the best examples will be on hand at the show, which in the past has drawn over 100,000 industry attendees. And a few bloggers. Ford Vehicle Personalization will display a carbon...(read more)

SEMA: Jeep Wrangler Lower Forty Concept

admin — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:23:00 GMT

This year, Jeep has announced four vehicles will be introduced at SEMA, including the Dodge Challenger 1320 Drag Pak, upscale Dodge Ram Bianco, Jeep Wrangler Overland camp-anywhere concept, and the Jeep Wrangler Lower Forty....(read more)

Cash for Clunkers Promises Stimulus

admin — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 01:41:00 GMT

While the industry is reeling from the disastrous January sales results, there are measures in federal government that carry promise for jump starting the economic engine. The "Cash for Clunkers" program introduced in Senate would reimburse drivers with a credit of $2,500 to $4,500 for turning in a gas-guzzler and replacing it with a newer, more fuel-efficient vehicle.

The bill targets vehicles that get 18 mpg, or less. To qualify, the vehicle must be in drivable condition and have been registered for at least the past 120 days.

Eligible drivers would receive a reimbursement voucher for the purchase of a new or used vehicle with a fuel economy rating that exceeds the CAFE target for that class of vehicle by at least 25 percent. The bill also requires that the voucher be used towards the purchase of a vehicle that has an MSRP of less than $45,000, is model year 2004 or later, and meets or exceeds federal emissions standards. Vouchers could also be redeemed for transit fares for participating local public transportation agencies. (See our "Top 10 used car values.")

The bill specifies that during the first year of the program, vouchers would be issued for the following amounts:

For traded-in vehicles that are model year 2002 and later, drivers would receive a voucher for:

The purchase of a new vehicle: $4,500
The purchase of a used vehicle: $3,000
Transit fare credit: $3,000

For traded-in vehicles that are model year 1999 – 2001, drivers would receive a voucher for:

The purchase of a new vehicle: $3,000
The purchase of a used vehicle: $2,000
Transit fare credit: $2,000

For traded-in vehicles that are model year 1998 and earlier, drivers would receive a voucher for:

The purchase of a new vehicle: $2,000
The purchase of a used vehicle: $1,500
Transit fare credit: $1,500

“This legislation would give consumers an incentive to turn over their old, inefficient vehicles, saving 80,000 barrels of motor fuel every day,” Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) said. “Taking these cars and trucks off our roads and highways would help reduce our dependence on foreign oil, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and stimulate the economy. In addition, it would help boost demand for manufacturers of newer, efficient models and bring in new business for car dealers who are struggling in the current economy.”

There are multiple benefits to such a measure, though there are also some concerns.

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has come out against this measure, calling it a "boondoogle." Among their concerns, SEMA points out that the program will reduce the number of vehicles available on the used market for low-income individuals and drive up the cost of the remaining vehicles and repair parts. Likewise, it risks the destruction of cars that could be parted out or rebuilt by the collector car and enthusiast communities.

A key point to underscore: Participation in this program is voluntary. But, for those drivers with an older, thirsty vehicle, this may make moving to a newer, thriftier model feasible.

Inspired to restore or modify your car? Scan the hundreds of restoration and performance articles here at autoMedia.com.

SEMA – 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

admin — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 01:40:00 GMT

As always, Ford showed a wide range of vehicles at this year’s SEMA Show, including a blinged Flex, Ford Racing Cobra Jet Mustang, Steeda-tuned Edge, HPA Motorsports-tuned Escape, and several more lowered, tweaked, and dubbed vehicles. Towering over the street machines, the all-new 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor high-performance off-road truck made its debut.

The Raptor goes beyond the FX4 package with a more dramatic appearance and the dirt-devil performance to match. The Raptor has a distinctive brand-billboard grille, front bumper, vented hood, front fascia, and fenders. The hood and fender heat extractors are functional and finished with ‘SVT’ bored out. Also noticeable are FOX Racing Shox internal bypass shocks with 13.4 inches of usable travel in the rear suspension and 11.2 in the front. The Raptor rides on 35-inch BF Goodrich All-Terrain TA/KO 315/70-17 tires. It is powered by the 5.4-liter, 320-horsepower Triton V-8 three-valve engine. A new 6.2-liter V-8 truck-specific engine will be available after launch.

The mighty truck targets desert racing enthusiasts, though attention has been paid to ensure it performs on road, as well. To aid the transition from dirt to asphalt, the AdvanceTrac system with roll stability control has two available settings – sport mode and full off-road mode. The sport mode shuts off traction control enabling the vehicle to have more yaw movement. Full off-road mode shuts off all electronic stability programs and the ABS system switches to a special off-road setting. Widening the threshold of sport mode, the wheels will lock more to help in off-road terrain. Also in full off-road mode, the locking rear differential is allowed to stay locked at elevated speeds to mimic a spool differential found on racing trucks.

The truck has a few other electronic tricks up its sleeve, including:

Trailer Sway Control can determine from the yaw motion of the truck if the trailer is swaying and take measures – such as applying precise braking or reduced engine torque – to bring both vehicle and trailer under control.
Integrated Trailer Brake Controller allows direct operation of the trailer’s electronic brakes by squeezing the control module on the instrument panel with more confidence than the typical aftermarket system.
Electronic Locking Differential uses a true mechanical connection to lock the left and right axle shafts together so both turn at the same speed with equal torque. This switch-controlled feature maximizes traction capability at the wheel with grip, without having to stop the truck.
Hill Descent Control uses ABS to control hill descent without applying the brakes, marking the first application of the technology on a Ford brand product. The speed is set for the truck to descend the hill by pushing a button and allows for the driver to concentrate on driving, rather than on how to modulate the brakes on a steep decline.
Off-Road Mode engages a specific throttle map and shift schedule for improved off-road performance.
Auxiliary Switch Board on the center console makes aftermarket customization easier, with four prewired switches attached to the power distribution box for electrical accessories.

Read our 2009 Ford F-150 review. And see SEMA previews of Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger, Hummer H3, Kial Soul, Subaru Forester, and other project vehicles.

SEMA – Kia Soul Burner Concept

admin — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 02:09:00 GMT

Among the high-horsepower American muscle cars at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, there are a breakthrough import models that command attention. One is the Subaru Forester XTI, another is this living Hot Wheels car, the Kia Soul Burner concept.

This matte-finished Soul speaks to the youth appeal Kia hopes to cultivate with its latest car, as the budget brand reaches out to youthful Scion enthusiasts. Notably, this gives a preview of the production model to be shown later this month at the LA Auto Show.

The Soul Burner is really a cosmetic showpiece, with scarlet used to give the mean machine eye-catching highlights. The designs in the paint are meant to resemble dragons, though you would have to use the same child-like creativity used to see animals in cloud formations to make the connection.

True modifications are minor, and mostly focused on dressing up the front end. There the bumper is equipped with L-shaped day-light LED driving lamps around the outer edges. The hood has an extra air outlet while at the rear, twin vertical exhaust pipes are placed at the extremes of the bumper and the tailgate features an asymmetrical license-plate and release handle. The tires are taken to the extreme with 245/40R19 meats finished with a concept-specific tread pattern comprised of dragon's flames.

Look beyond the paint, and there is an attractive hatchback timed right for the market.

Read our complete Kia Soul preview.

SEMA – 315-hp Subaru Forester XTI

admin — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:49:00 GMT

Seems like just a few years ago, customized full-sized pickup trucks and SUVs were abundant throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center, home to the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show. These days, the SUVs that are selling are crossovers, particularly smaller ones. Hence, it was no surprise to see a special Subaru Forester given the full STI treatment.

The transformation is fitting, as the production Forester XT is essentially an Impreza WRX wearing a taller body. To build this show vehicle, Subaru of America technicians installed the engine and entire drivetrain from the Impreza WRX STI.

In the Forester XTI, a custom stainless steel cat-back exhaust system from the Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) catalog helps to raise output of the 2.5-liter intercooled turbo engine to 315 hp (from 305 stock) and 300 lb.-ft. of torque (from 290 lb.-ft. stock). As in the WRX STI, power flows through a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission and the Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) all-wheel-drive system.

The Forester XTI also features an adjustable coil-over suspension by STI. The powerful Brembo brakes come right from the stock WRX STI, with four-piston front calipers, two-piston rear calipers, Super Sport ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The 18x8-inch STI alloy wheels are wrapped in Yokohama Advan Neova 255/40R18 performance tires.

Further signaling its special abilities, the XTS wears a front lower spoiler and Sport Mesh Grille are from the Subaru Genuine Accessory catalog. The finish touch is a JDM body kit with side skirts, a rear skirt, and a rear spoiler.

Subaru estimates that this project XTI could sprint 0-60 mph in under five seconds. Sounds like a safe bet.

Research the Subaru Forester in our 2009 new car buyer’s guide, and read our 2009 Subaru Forester review.

SEMA Preview: Chevrolet Camaro Black

admin — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 02:18:00 GMT

Chevrolet is poised to unveiled four official Camaro project vehicles at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show this week in Las Vegas. General Motors always commands attention in its massive booth overflowing with models dressed up with GM Performance Parts and often showcasing true creativity. The total roster sounds a bit modest this year, compared to years past, but there will definitely be eye candy, such as the built-up Dodge Challenger s, Ford F-150s, and Hummer H3s.

Showcasing the potential for the all-new Camaro will be:

Camaro Black Concept – A sinister-looking V-6, highlighted below.
Camaro LS7 Concept – The spirit of COPO lives with a GM Performance Parts LS7 crate engine that delivers more than 500 hp.
Camaro Dale Earnhardt Jr. Concept – Customized to Dale Jr.’s style.
Camaro GS Racecar Concept – An homage to a road-racing legend.

The Camaro Black Concept has a matte black-finished hood, Chevy Accessories ground effects, Chevy Accessories 21-inch wheels with darkened finish , and red-glowing HID headlamp halo rings. Based on a 300-horsepower V-6 coupe, the Camaro Black looks like Knight Rider’s nemesis, with blackout treatment throughout, including darkened grilled and badges, and the essential SS-model spoiler. Behind those massive wheels are Brembo disc brakes.

The theme continues inside with dark-finished accents, including the shift knob, radio face, steering wheel ring, gauge trim and door handles. The instrument panel illuminates red, and the footwells feature red ambient lighting. Leather-covered seats are dressed with grey accent stitching.

Many of these components will be available through your Chevrolet dealership, and the other work could be performed by a local speed or body shop, should you want to build your own bad-boy Camaro Black.

Read classic Camaro articles from the autoMedia archive. And see all the SEMA highlights.

SEMA Preview: Ford F-150

admin — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 02:46:00 GMT

With the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show just days away, manufacturers are steadily teasing their project vehicles that will be on display in Las Vegas. Among those leaked by Ford, there is the adventure-ready X-Treme Toyz F-150 FX-4, Street Scene Equipment F-150 sport truck, and 600-horsepower, electric Hi-Pa Drive F-150. Plus, the standout F-150 Heavy Duty Dewalt Contractor Concept.

A natural expansion of the innovative Ford Works Solutions available on the redesigned F-150, the Dewalt-partnered project truck adds further to the contractor-friendly features and completes the truck with a look befitting a power tool.

Details are thin ahead of the show, but Ford reveals that the yellow-and-black truck has been enhanced with Roush powertrain mods to improve performance and efficiency, plus a long list of work-centric features. Naturally, it has Tool Link and Customized On Board Storage to aid contractors in storing and managing their tool inventory.

Needless to say, we’ll dig into these trucks and other project vehicles once the show opens next month. After all, the SEMA show vehicles are equal parts dream machines and blueprints for car customizing. And sometimes, they offer a preview of things to come.

Read our 2009 Ford F-150 review. And see SEMA previews of Hummer H3 and Dodge Challenger project vehicles.

SEMA Preview: Hummer H3 Weekend Warrior

admin — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:18:00 GMT

Hummer will rock the desert at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in November with two concept vehicle and a project SUV. At the Las Vegas industry event, Hummer will introduce a pre-runner-style H3T outfitted with a raft of performance and appearance accessories, and the H3 X Concept – a proposal for the ultimate H3. The third vehicle is a modified H3 Alpha built by Four Wheeler magazine.

Given the troubles the Hummer division has been having this past year, and the For Sale sign GM has hung on it, we can believe it when the dirt-loving division claims there is not production intent for these vehicles. Like most models on display at SEMA, consider them inspiration for owners.

The H3T Weekend Warrior concept (shown here) explore the potential for DIYers with a few spare weekends, credit card, and Internet access. Starting with a new H3T Alpha, engineers added nearly 70 horsepower to its 5.3L V-8 via components available through GM Performance Parts. They include LS2 cylinder heads (part number 12576063), a higher-lift camshaft (part number 12574519) and supporting components. Also enhancing performance is a custom, 3.5-inch exhaust system.

The H3T rides on 35-inch-tall BFGoodrich Baja T/A tires mounted on Hummer Accessories 20-inch wheels. The concept also uses racing-proven stock and aftermarket suspension components, including Light Racing JounceShocks and 2-inch-diameter Rod Hall Racing piggyback reservoir-type performance shocks. The modified suspension improves the H3T’s inherent off-road capability. There is also a set of high-performance disc brakes from DBA. The vehicle also wears other parts available from Hummer Accessories that enhance function, including a bed extender and carry-off cargo boxes. Seeing how Hummer itself modifies the H3T gives clear indication of the potential, and it serves as an endorsement for combining key elements.

Research Hummer trucks and SUVs in the 2009 buyer’s guide, complete with pricing, specifications, and photo galleries. Read our Hummer H3 review.