The SEMA Show is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. Every fall, it draws the industry’s brightest minds and hottest products–as well as some of the wildest show vehicles around–to the gigantic Las Vegas Convention Center. In addition, the SEMA Show provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more.
SEMA stands for Specialty Equipment Market Association; though the group’s annual shindig is primarily a showcase for the automotive aftermarket industry (wheels, custom paint, engine hop-up parts, and the like), the show has long enjoyed the participation of OEM manufacturers keen to demonstrate how readily–and creatively–their products can be modified by the aftermarket.
The 2018 edition of the show runs from October 25 through November 2. Like many manufacturers, Ford had a number of vehicles built specifically for the show, among them the four SUVs shown here (we’ve included Ford’s own descriptive text beneath the photo of each vehicle). An interesting inclusion among these modded trucks is a beefed-up example of the EcoSport, Ford’s new subcompact crossover.
The SEMA Show is only open to automotive media members and people actively working in the automotive industry; the general public is not allowed to attend. If you’ve ever had the opportunity to attend the SEMA convention, we’d love to hear about your experiences. The place to leave comments is down below.
Ford at SEMA
Tucci Hot Rods “Big Adventures” EcoSport
“This Tucci Hot Rods Big Adventures EcoSport gives an all-new meaning to the concept of compact sport utility vehicle. The team started with custom fender flares and beefy Maxxis Bravo AT tires, then followed with off-road accessories including an integrated winch, custom tubular bumpers, Rigid Industries lighting and Yakima bike rack. The result is a highly capable, efficient, fun package from an award-winning team that will turn heads and open the great outdoors to a new generation of compact SUV builders.”
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Hulst Customs “Destination” Expedition
“This Hulst Customs 2018 Destination Expedition is the ultimate SUV – a custom luxe cruiser designed to get you to where you are going in comfort, class and style. A custom hood and grille, plus custom Borla cat-back exhaust with custom-fabricated tips give a nod to its performance DNA. Color-matched 26-inch Lexani wheels and tires fill out the fender wells, while stunning custom gray paint with lower graphics give this Destination Expedition a truly rich and distinctive appearance. A custom drop visor with LED running lights and Yakima snowboard rack put the finishing touches on this one-of-a-kind family hauler.”
Test Drive: 2018 Ford Expedition Limited
LGE*CTS “Expedition Classic”
“With vintage design cues, rich materials and high-tech rugged hardware, designer/builder Theresa Contreras created a modern classic for SEMA with her LGE*CTS Expedition Classic. From the purpose-driven matte paint and steel wheels, to the ReadyLIFT® leveling suspension and Borla® performance cat-back exhaust, the LGE*CTS Expedition Classic is built for adventure – and getting you there in ultimate style. Finishing touches include custom-painted Yakima OffGrid roof rack and coordinating Ford Accessories.”
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MAD Industries Explorer
“California-based MAD Industries created a high-fashion design that blends style and performance with this custom Explorer. The two-tone Explorer’s performance is upgraded with more aggressive handling tuning and more braking power. The interior features premium leather seats, custom MAD Industries steering wheel and unique touches including billet aluminum pedals, color-matched accents and LED lighting.”
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