http://cache.jalopnik.com/assets/base/img/thumbs140x140/jalopnik.com.png http://jalopnik.com/tag/sema 2008 http://jalopnik.com/tag/sema 2008

We've been cleaning out our memory card from SEMA and can't believe we forgot about this evil-looking custom concept found in the Ford booth at the huge aftermarket parts show. It's from the good folks at Galpin Auto Sports and it's called the Scythe. The purple concept car is one of the rare few we've seen where the name is actually fitting for the car being shown. Based loosely (VERY loosely) on a 2008 Mustang GT convertible, the team at GAS actually designed it to look like an overgrown Hot Wheels car. But it's not just the unique look of the car that's cool, it's also what it has inside. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5083055&view=rss&microfeed=true

Two days ago we asked you to pick your choice of "booth professional" using a comparison from last year's SEMA-stained gallery of booth saleswomen from the tire section of the Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association show to the more conservative flesh-baring of Geneva, Paris and Detroit as our lede. Now, we've put together a bevy of booth professionals from this year's SEMA show for you to find out if your "choice" made the cut. So take a gander — perhaps you'll answer differently after taking a look at this year's batch of tire-selling sales professionals. Or not. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5079880&view=rss&microfeed=true

You can't make this SEMA stuff up sometimes. The guy who invented the big red gumball machine with the globe of gumballs at the top and the spiral ramp down the stand? Yeah, he's decided to try his hand at custom cars, producing a somewhat-faithful recreation of the 1993 Ford Mustang Mach III concept. The car is based on an early fourth-generation Mustang with custom bodywork to emulate the original concept, a Kenne Belle supercharger strapped to the factory 4.6-liter V8 and an interior to match the outside. To see more about what Modified Mustang magazine calls "The Mock Mach" head over to mustangconcept3.com. Just don't tell them we sent you. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5078236&view=rss&microfeed=true

It may not be the spiritual successor to the CRX HF, but the Honda Civic HFP Concept is the result of Honda Access America — the in-house accessory division — taking a Civic Si and adding lightness. Both exhaust and wheels have been replaced with high-performance ultra-lightweight versions, while an aero body kit streamlines the cD for a slipperier shape. So how much more efficient is the HFP? Well...they don't quite say, but we'd venture a guess that Honda's working in one or two MPG increments here. Press release below the jump. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5078191&view=rss&microfeed=true

Following the example of the RKSport Hyundai Genesis Sedan, the Volkswagen CC Eco Performance Concept is debuting at SEMA without super-gaudy bodywork, dizziness-inducing interior and a paint job that would make Zsa Zsa Gabor blush. The car features a 2.0-liter TSI inline-four with a three-stage turbo from APR, but you can select how much power comes out the end. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5077578&view=rss&microfeed=true

Standing out among the carbon fiber and large wheels at SEMA was the debut of the Ronn Motors Scorpion hydrogen-powered supercar. Built in Texas, this hydrogen vehicle isn't a fuel cell that converts hydrogen into electricity to power an electric motor. Instead, the Scorpion features a modified 3.5-liter Acura V6 that has hydrogen injected into it. Where does the hydrogen come from? Using a process similar to electrolysis, water is zapped with electricity in order to create a hydrogen gas that is then pumped into the engine. When the hydrogen is added to the V6, the claim is that the car will achieve 20-40% better fuel economy with lower emissions. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5077574&view=rss&microfeed=true

We first saw Sean Casey's latest and greatest in mobile tornado chasing insanity, the TIV-2, in a spy photo back in May, but now Sean's given us this exclusive first-hand look at the truck-based tech-filled tank here at SEMA and the scoop on what to expect from the TIV-3 for next season's Discovery Channel show, "Storm Chasers." More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5076023&view=rss&microfeed=true

Toyota Tundra Dually concept debuted at the 2007 SEMA show but returns for an encore with its 8.0 liter Hino heavy truck inline-six diesel engine normally used in a 35,000 lb beasts, an Eaton five-speed manual transmission and a matching Hino rear end, and you've got a truck beefy enough to drag the entire SEMA show around. We would have loved to know more about the specifics of that powertrain, but Toyota tooted its horn about the "opulent interior" and “Road Warrior exterior," 22.5 inch Alcoa wheels, blah, blah, blah. Tell us how many fully loaded train cars it can pull. Incomplete details below. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5077255&view=rss&microfeed=true

"Big Daddy" Don Garlits is kind of a big deal when it comes to drag racing, having birthed the rear-engine top fuel dragster, and being the first in the NHRA to cross the quarter-mile lights at 170, 180, 200, 240, 250, 260, and 270 MPH, so when he buys a Dodge Challenger Drag Pack, you know it's got to be good. This Drag Pack Challenger is the third off the production line and signed right on its composite hood by Garlits, claiming it as his own, along with everything else packed into the car like racing seats, polycarbonate door windows, manual rack-and-pinion steering, fuel cell and factory roll cage along with a stinky race-modified engine. We don't know if it's a 5.9-liter Magnum wedge, 5.7-liter Hemi or the nasty 6.1-liter Hemi, but at around 3100 pounds, we suspect it'll move — especially with Garlits at the helm. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5077350&view=rss&microfeed=true

In an attempt to expand the appeal of the 2009 Dodge Challenger to every corner of the automotive enthusiast world, Chrysler has unveiled the Mopar Drift Dodge Challenger that will be piloted by Samuel Hübinette during the 2009 Formula Drift season. In order to prep the car for FD, the Challenger dropped a significant amount of weight with the use of carbon fiber everywhere and received a bit more safety equipment than your average SRT8. Under the hood is a custom-built Mopar A8 aluminum engine that should pump out 850 horsepower and 849 lb-ft of torque. They've also installed a minor tweak in order to let them drift along the walls, which we highlight below the jump. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5077257&view=rss&microfeed=true

You see some rare, one-of-a-kind ABS plastic carbon fiber sheetmetal on the SEMA show floor, but nothing is less common in Vegas this time of year than a completely stock example of one of the hottest cars on the planet. That's right: Nissan elected to bring a bone-stock GT-R to SEMA, almost as a challenge to the customizers on-site. "Blank canvas, boys. Whatcha gonna do now?" it taunts, no doubt causing the creative wheels to turn even faster than when confronted with someone else's interpretation of the car. Well played, Nissan. Well played. Also, considering mods apparently void the warranty, we should have expected it. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5077239&view=rss&microfeed=true

More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5077243&view=rss&microfeed=true

Toyota apparently wanted a little of that Italian passion mixed into its Toyota Tundra crew cab for SEMA. Engineers stretched the frame and dropped on an awesome 6.5-foot bed set-up with all kinds of storage for track day support, then slathered the whole thing in red paint. The truck actually looks pretty darn slick in Ducati livery matching the accompanying 2008 Ducati Desmosedici RR Motorcycle. Those dark, 22-inch Alcoa wheels do their part to set the paint off, but its the 500 HP supercharged V8 under hood that makes the 'go' match the 'show.' Full details on the truck and its modifications below. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5077236&view=rss&microfeed=true

We told you about the speedy Rhys Millen Racing Hyundai Genesis Coupe, but what about that other Hyundai Genesis in the unveil video? That was the 460 HP, supercharged, 4.6 liter V8-powered RKSport Hyundai Genesis with experimental cylinder deactivating. The IHI screw-type supercharger provides 11 pounds of additional intake pressure and helps motivate the car to sixty in a scorching 4.9 seconds with a quarter-mile run coming in 13.58 seconds at 108 MPH — all while being capable of returning 27 MPG. Yes, that's from a full-size Hyundai luxury sedan. Holy crap. And we haven't even touched on the upgraded styling. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5077118&view=rss&microfeed=true The cloth has dropped at SEMA on a Rhys Millen Racing Hyundai Genesis Coupe that doesn't quite look like it did in the original rendered concept. The fortified and honest to goodness "Art Of Speed" race car made from the guts of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe is stripped of all the superfluous interior amenities and upgraded with an eight point safety cage, racing seat, quick release steering wheel and all the other requisite goodies of a race car. Under the hood the 2.0 liter turbo four cylinder gets upgraded with Turbonetics goodies breathing through a new intake. The suspension is updated accordingly and the whole shebang seems to offer the appropriate bite for the obvious bark. Complete details and way more pictures available below. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5076526&view=rss&microfeed=true

More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5076434&view=rss&microfeed=true

The new Nissan GT-R is just too hard to modify for performance, what with the tricky, unhackable computer system and the already Porsche-confounding performance. That's why Japanese tuners Branew brought their Branew GT-R to SEMA with only appearance upgrades. The car gets a revised front clip, side skirts, massive 23 inch wheels, a triple-tipped exhaust outlet, functional spoiler and rear splitter mounted on a very C5 Corvette-inspired tail end. The Branew GT-R will probably suffer from the classic tuner problem of being slower with all the extra pretty stuff on it — a characteristic most tuner car enthusiasts are able to ignore. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5076282&view=rss&microfeed=true

In Quentin Tarantino’s "Death Proof", Kurt Russells’s character modifies his car to protect its driver in even the most severe of accidents, thus rendering the machine impervious to death. Bespoke Ventures has done exactly the opposite, modifying their Nissan GT-R in such a way that severe back injury is virtually guaranteed by any front-end collision. Click through to find out why. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5076297&view=rss&microfeed=true

Much like the falling leaves represented on the Tetsu GTR's matte black hood, we've been awaiting the SEMA arrival of the Japanese tuner's latest Bentley concoction. Are we fans of the odd paint scheme, Bucky Beaver front grille and Scoobtastic rear spoiler? Not so much. Are we fans of the 800 HP under that leafy hood? You betcha! All in all, the Tetsu GTR is a fate unworthy of just about any Bentley...except for the Bentley Continental GT, which makes it both horrifying and appropriate. Not unlike the SEMA show itself. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5076237&view=rss&microfeed=true

There's no good excuse for this customized Toyota Prius muddying up the floor at SEMA, and we couldn't love hating it more. Why the engine-turned light covers? The scissor doors? The triple-blade-razor inspired hood? We're not even going to get going on the paint job choice, interior fit-and-finish and those glorious wheels. Get that new Toyota Prius out ASAP — it can't possibly look this bad when it goes under the knife. We're experiencing a serious case of schadenSEMA with this one. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5076229&view=rss&microfeed=true

At 7’4” tall, 18’1” long and 8’2” wide, the KNIGHT XV is one big honkin’ bio-fuel powered SUV. Did we mention it was armored too? Thanks to a 6.8 liter V10 that runs on something nebulously called “Biofuel” it claims to be green, but we estimate its mileage to be in the low single digits. That’s a lot of liquid corn. Unfortunately, Conquest Vehicles’ bouncers appear to be equally big, burly and prone to man-handling our Editor-in-chief, so we decided to reveal it early. Ray’s full account follows the jump. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5076209&view=rss&microfeed=true

If you've got an H2T but you're not happy with the gas mileage — finding it way too high — your options are limited. Sure, you could bolt on performance mods, but we'd suggest these elegant and subtle tracked belts to replace your efficient pneumatic tires. This H2 was spotted outside the Vegas convention center welcoming all who ventured out to see the SEMA fest, bedecked in two-tone green-and-black, ready to crawl to your favorite club. No word on top speed, but hey, it's not about when you get there; it's about what you crush on the way. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5076062&view=rss&microfeed=true

Own a high-performance supercar but want to ruin its ride and handling? Well Kumho has just the thing for you! Presented today at SEMA were these new ultra-low-profile 15-Series “performance” tires. Available only in 385/15-22 size for now, they’re designed for the otherwise-competent Ferrari F430, Dodge Viper and Corvette Z06. But, while the 15-Series tires are just for looks, their complete and utter lack of sidewalls has an unexpected benefit. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075848&view=rss&microfeed=true

In conjunction with the upcoming 25th anniversary release of the greatest ghost-hunting comedy ever, Ghostbusters, Sony has outfitted the original, fully restored ECTO-1 with an extensive Sony entertainment system packed with all manner of gadgets for SEMA. The classic Cadillac ambulance features Sony Xplod subwoofers, a DVD player, iPod adapter, Sony marine amps and speakers, an MP3 player, 10-disc CD changer and a navigation system. It all seems like a bit of overkill considering the only thing that'll ever get played in there is Ray Parker Jr.'s Ghostbusters theme song with the DVD running in the background. Complete details below the fold. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5076070&view=rss&microfeed=true

Now here's something interesting coming from the Wolfsburg crew: The VW Tiguan Performance Concept set to debut at SEMA. The details are thin so far, but the tiniest SUV from the people's brand gets a three-stage turbo pushing output up to 312 HP and 319 lb-ft of torque to go along with the upgraded Dakar-style body work. Since it's coming out at SEMA it's also getting a silly and irrelevant Rockford Fostgate sound system which makes us shake our heads. Still, we want to run it against the new 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor in a desert-racing death match. Click here for a high-res view and check out the "release" below the jump. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075980&view=rss&microfeed=true

It's SEMA time again, the annual customizer festival in the desert that never fails to polarize opinion — perhaps appropriate that it starts on an election day this year. We've just begun our coverage, but already we've witnessed ICON's Toyota/Lexus mods and Nelly's fab Flex, with a bunch more to come. So, let's assume you're either in the aftermarket biz or you're a famous R&B artist: What would you build for the SEMA show? More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075843&view=rss&microfeed=true

In addition to the Raptor pickup, Ford will be unveiling its latest purpose-built drag racer, the 2008 Mustang Cobra Jet. The Cobra Jet, also known as the FR500CJ, is an attempt by the Dearborn, MI-based automaker to expand its offerings of racing pony cars. The Cobra Jet gets a beefed up 5.4-liter V8 with a cold air intake, A/C delete, 9-inch rear end, a six speed manual or three speed auto, a roll hoop and a specialized suspension. While no horsepower figure is given yet, Ford is calling it a car any drag racer can get in and immediately be able to compete with ten second cars. Not too bad for a factory racer, sounds like it'll do the Cobra Jet name justice. Details in the press release below. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075921&view=rss&microfeed=true

Working with Ford and Funkmaster Flex (no relation), Grammy-winner Nelly laid out a design for his own custom Ford Flex crossover; the finished result will be revealed to the artist today at the SEMA show in Las Vegas. Apparently Nelly was enthusiastic about the Flex from his first look, saying "Yo, that’s hot! How can I get one of those?" Never one to miss a PR opportunity, Ford offered to customize a Flex for the "premiere stuntastic stuntman" under the watchful eye of Funkmaster, himself a custom Flex owner. All we have so far is one photo and a press release below the jump, but Nelly's Flex will come to you as soon as we get our eyes on it, so try to contain yourselves. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075794&view=rss&microfeed=true Just because TLC is bringing a slew of built-to-the-hilt ICON FJ Cruisers to SEMA doesn't mean they've forgotten about the crucial bugeye sunglass-wearing urban white trash market, and so we present their ICON Lexus LX570. The direct descendant of the FJ40, the Lexus doesn't much do what its tougher forefather did — likewise TLC's modifications are primarily for the street, with monster two-piece 24-inch MOZ wheels, black chrome, extra-tinted windows, TRD six-piston calipers on cross-drilled rotors and emulsion-laser-etched carbon fiber printed trim. Yes, printed carbon fiber. Heck, we'll just let you watch the video for the rest. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075865&view=rss&microfeed=true

Back before they became the enormous and bloated choice of bugeye sunglass-wearing urban white trash, Toyota FJ Cruisers were compact, capable off-roading machines. We told you about TLC's plans build up some of their old-looking new trucks with a trio of FJ's for the floor of SEMA. They already build an FH40 version, but now they're adding FJ43 long-wheelbase and an FJ45 pick up with a long-travel coil suspension, Stoptech brakes and a 550 HP LS2 V8. Mighty fine figures for a vintage inspired truck even though they're purpose built off-roaders to begin with Take a look at some new pictures below — we'll bring you the trucks from the show floor this week. Also, hit the jump to see a video from the folks at Streetfire of the truck build in process. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075788&view=rss&microfeed=true

The boss-man is in Vegas at SEMA and he claims he's got some late-breaking news for us this evening. He won't tell us what it is, but he is telling us to come back at midnight EST tonight to find out. He keeps talking about some bird of prey he found in the Nevada desert. We haven't the foggiest. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075472&view=rss&microfeed=true

These photos show details of the new 500+ HP 2009 Hurst/Hemi Challenger that’s scheduled for an official unveiling at SEMA tomorrow. Expected to be available from a range of dealers early in 2009, Hurst is offering a variety of upgraded components for the 2009 Dodge Challenger, all of which appear to be fitted to this vehicle; that means the de rigeur Hurst shifter, white paint with gold stripes, branded wheels and a variety of motor upgrades which culminate in the 500+ HP figure, but can be optioned lower for smaller budgets. Hurst will be launching a website to accompany the vehicle, going live tomorrow at 6:30pm EST. The release follows the jump. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075220&view=rss&microfeed=true

Here's some hotness bound for the endless halls of SEMA — a pair of heavily massaged widebody Dodge Challengers by Classic Design Concepts. Outside, the Challengers get shaker hoods, a very snazzy wire mesh grille, and extra wide composite fenders which are particularly slick in the back, presenting a bulged-out version of the famous billboard side stripes. Under those fenders are 10-inch wide wheels in the front and 11.5 inchers out back, stopped by massive Baer brakes. Those big brakes will be put to good use as both Challengers get supercharged, with a Vortech in the black version and the Procharger in the white. Think 560 HP; now that's a proper power-to-weight ratio. Details and more pictures below the fold. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075149&view=rss&microfeed=true

In case you haven't seen the 2010 Chevy Camaro enough yet, GM is bringing four concept Camaros to SEMA this week, some of them actually interesting. The lineup includes the Camaro LS7 Concept (guess what that one's got under the hood), Camaro Dale Earnhardt Jr. Concept (yeah, we figured), Camaro Black Concept and the Camaro GS Racecar Concept, along with a GM Performance Parts car loaded to the gills with stuff you can buy for your Camaro — the one that won't be in your garage until at least next year. Let's take a closer look at this bevy of concepts for the official car of this year's SEMA show plus all the accessories. Hit the jump for all the details after perusing the galleries below. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5075091&view=rss&microfeed=true

We got a peek at the Pontiac Solstice GXP Coupe concept at the New York Auto Show, but with the death of the Kappa platform basically a done deal we didn't think we'd see much more of it. It appears GM Performance Parts still likes the idea of a closed Solstice, though, and they're bringing their version of a GXP Coupe to the SEMA show this week. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5074856&view=rss&microfeed=true

UK-based LSE Design is planning to debut their Range Rover Sport Coupe at next week's SEMA show in Vegas. For only a quarter-million dollars, you too can get your very own Range Rover sans the two plebe doors tacked onto the back. Of course, the LSE Coupe is also outfitted with the typical Range Rover tuner mods — huge wheels, low-profile tires and forced induction. Only 200 are planned for sale worldwide, 50 of which will come stateside, so if you're a professional athlete or a Real Housewife get the checkbook out pronto. [GlobalMotors] More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5072421&view=rss&microfeed=true

As a nod towards successful design mixed with an automaker willing to give 'em way all willy-nilly, this year's SEMA show will be chock-full of Dodge Challengers. We've already seen the Coach Builders 560 HP drop-top Challenger. Now we've got Group Five Limited bringing us this Challenger Roadster for two. The heavily chopped windscreen plus a sleek tonneau cover over the rear seats are both essential modifications in making this roadster one bad lad of a speedster. More below the jump plus another shot of the chopped-up Challenger. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5072346&view=rss&microfeed=true

Subaru is bringing what they're calling the "Mountain Rescue Forester" to next week's SEMA show. Built in conjunction with Detroit-based Specialized Vehicles, the Ski Patrol vehicle started life as a Forester 2.5XT turbo, but now sports 14 inches of ground clearance from an air suspension system and fat Yokohamas. The requisite high-power off-road lighting sits up top, complemented by ski holders, a cargo basket and a WARN winch on the front bumper for pulling EXTREME!! inexperienced snowboarders up from icy ledges. Check out the full release below, and click here for a high-res version of the above shot. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5072152&view=rss&microfeed=true

Tuner Neil Tjin, already expected to display his work at SEMA next week with a custom Pontiac G8 CST, will also be bringing a surprise 2009 Honda Fit to the Vegas event. Details are still under wraps, but the Fit obviously receives Tjin's trademark baby blue paint, along with aftermarket alloys wearing low-profile rubber. We thought Tjin's G8 looked pretty sharp, but we're not so sure about this one; the black wheels make the already too-small wheelwells on the Fit look even tinier, and the whole thing has sort of a hopped-up Prius vibe to it. In person next week, it could be different. Make the jump for another view or click here for high-res versions of both photos. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5071138&view=rss&microfeed=true

Ford has four special editions of its brand-new 2009 F-150 they're bringing out to Vegas for the 2008 SEMA show. First and foremost, the DeWalt Contractor Concept tacks on the expected exterior off-road upgrades but also adds thoughtful touches like a tool charger in the center console, storage under the rear seat and Ford's tool tracking system to make sure your chop saw doesn't walk away. The Ford Hi-Pa Drive F-150 takes hybrids to the next level with in-wheel electric motors, while X-Treme Toyz and Street Scene Equipment will also each be customizing the new F-series to their own unique clients' tastes. We'll show you all of 'em when we're live from SEMA next week; in the meantime, Ford presser below the jump. More »
]]> http://jalopnik.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5070962&view=rss&microfeed=true