SEMA Show Highlights Green Technology, Smaller Vehicles But Dodge Challengers, Chevrolet Camaros Highlight Muscle Car Roots

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LAS VEGAS, Nov. 5, 2008: This year's Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association convention attracted an eclectic mix of green technology and smaller vehicles, but eye-catching muscle cars still reminded visitors that the show has not strayed from its traditional roots of hot performance cars.

These are some of the trends outlined by the editorial staff of CarDomain Network in their annual Top Ten SEMA Trends special report CARDOMAIN

"Automotive enthusiasts still love heart-thumping horsepower and eye-popping designs and this year's show did not disappoint," said Rob Einaudi, Editor-in-Chief of CarDomain Network. "The Dodge Challenger and the Chevy Camaro have both remained cult figures in the specialty vehicle crowd. However, the Nissan GT-R proved to be an instant favorite."

Despite staying true to its muscle car roots, the show also displayed technologies that respond to changing environmental and economic realities. A special technology pavilion dedicated to green technology called "Making Green Cool" included an E85 Corvette, huge biodiesel trucks and of course a Toyota Prius -- with wing doors.

"Even the specialty equipment market, long known for its hot muscle cars and its elaborate paint jobs, is being impacted by environmental and economic concerns," said Einaudi. "Many enthusiasts in the aftermarket are adding features and content to smaller vehicles such as the Honda Fit and the Toyota Yaris."

Other top trends included:

The Smart car is a big favorite this year, as dozens of modified Smart's dot the convention center.

In paint, two-tone treatments and traditional flames are popular this year. But many builders have forgone fancy paint jobs in favor of vinyl wraps.

Color-matched wheels and excessive wheel lip are very popular this year.

Mobile electronics: integrated navigation systems are coming on strong

SEMA stats:
125,000 people will visit the show
2,500 cars and trucks present
2 million square feet of convention space