It's crazy to think that the 2024 SEMA show has come and gone and while we’re staring the biggest holiday promotion period in the eyes (Black Friday/Cyber Monday), this year’s SEMA Show was one to remember, blending innovation, industry trends, and a few lessons to be learned along the way. As one of the most anticipated events in the industry, it delivered an experience worth celebrating—and analyzing. Here’s our take on the highlights and opportunities for growth that defined this year’s show.

A beautiful R34 Skyline parked in Central Hall at SEMA 2024.

1. Central Hall: The Beating Heart of SEMA

Every year, Central Hall stands out as the center (pun intended) for the show and 2024 was no exception. The effort brands invested here was nothing short of impressive. Booths were polished, engaging, and designed to highlight not just individual products but entire brand philosophies. From incredible new product displays to booths pushing the envelope of what cars they could showcase, Central Hall was the epicenter of innovation.

One key takeaway for us was how brands are adapting to shifts in consumer priorities, especially in states like California, where emissions standards and regulatory landscapes majorly influence consumer buying decisions. Many exhibitors showcased new innovation that focused on sustainable practices, C.A.R.B. compliance, and solving consumer problems while maintaining the performance edge that enthusiasts crave. It was refreshing to see that several manufacturers weren’t just innovating, they were also pushing the envelope of what emissions intact performance parts could look like.

A SEMA Show Attendee takes a photo of the Konig Wheels booth car, a track ready Supra.

2. Influencer Partnerships: A Lesson Still Unlearned

The rise of influencer marketing has reshaped brand strategy, but for many exhibitors it remains a stumbling block. This year, we saw far too many influencers making content primarily for their own channels, only to give brands a slight callout in their social media posts after the fact.

This approach dilutes the value of influencer partnerships, leaving brands with little return on investment and a sour taste in their mouths. For influencer marketing to truly be profitable in the automotive space, brands need to establish clearer guidelines and deliverables. Creators should be integrated into marketing campaigns with a shared vision, ensuring the content resonates with both their audience and the brand’s goals. Done right, these collaborations can amplify a brand’s message far beyond SEMA’s halls.

With the creator marketplace estimated to grow to over 191 Billion Dollars in 2025, ensuring that brands are partnering with the right creators and aligning their goals with the strategic initiatives of the brand is crucial not only for the SEMA Show, but for all marketing strategies as they look into the new year.

Photo Credits: user Urander, CyberTruckOwnersClub.com

3. 2024: The Year of the Cybertruck

If there was an unofficial mascot for SEMA 2024, it was undoubtedly the Cybertruck. The Tesla pickup dominated the show, with an entire row dedicated to customized versions in the West Hall and countless others sprinkled throughout.

From a custom one-off Dually CyberTruck build to wild aesthetic modifications, the Cybertruck became a canvas for innovation. It wasn’t just a conversation starter; it was a statement about how EVs are carving out a permanent space in the aftermarket scene. While opinions about the Cybertruck remain divided, one thing is clear: it’s here to stay, and its presence is challenging the industry to think differently about design, materials, and the future of vehicle customization.

The Konig Wheels Booth located in South Hall Lower at SEMA 2024.

4. South Lower Hall: A Mixed Bag

For experienced SEMA Show attendees, the South Lower Hall is known primarily as the home for all things wheels and tires. From wholesale tire distribution companies to every mounting and balancing machine manufacturer you would want to find, South Lower Hall is the center for rubber and wheels. This year, standout brands like Ferrada, Rohana, Konig, and MV Forged did not disappoint. Their booths highlighted a commitment to quality and originality, showcasing new products, refreshed branding, and more.

Unfortunately, this hall was also overwhelmed with a slew of generic tire and wheel manufacturers whose products felt uninspiring and status quo. The overabundance of look-alike designs diluted the hall’s impact, leaving us hoping for a stronger emphasis on originality in future shows. South Lower Hall has the potential to remain a must-visit section of SEMA, but it needs a sharper focus on innovation to keep its edge as we look to 2025.

The sun peeks through the wing of an RWB Porsche at SEMA 2024.

5. Outdoor Displays: An Auto Enthusiasts Playground

The outdoor section of SEMA was more than just a showcase—it was an experience. This year’s setup was a visual and sensory overload, with live demonstrations of drifting and burnouts, some of the craziest custom builds you could find, and hands-on opportunities for attendees to get up close and personal with the industry’s finest work.

Adding to the excitement was SEMA Fest, conveniently located right on the show grounds unlike years past. Its festival vibe brought a sense of celebration to the event, drawing in crowds and creating a dynamic crossover between business and entertainment. While the entertainment was fun, the outdoor area continues to prove that it’s where creativity and community come together to redefine what the automotive industry can be. From slammed builds to massive lifted trucks, unique 1 of 1 vintage builds to custom widebody cars, the outdoor display has something for everyone.

Looking Ahead To SEMA 2025

SEMA 2024 was a reflection of the innovation in the automotive world while also highlighting areas for growth. Whether it’s the standout work in the Central Hall, the ever-present Cybertruck, or the potential to refine influencer partnerships, the show provided plenty of inspiration and food for thought not only for brands, but for attendees and general enthusiasts alike. As we look forward to 2025, it will be key for brands to not only see these trends in the industry but truly act upon that information, revising strategies and developing new frameworks that help push their business forward as we ring in the new year.

At MetaMartini, we’re passionate about helping brands shine brighter in spaces like SEMA. From strategic partnerships to bold marketing campaigns, we work to turn ideas into results. As we look toward SEMA 2025, we’re excited to see how the industry will continue to evolve and redefine what’s possible.

What were your favorite moments or takeaways from SEMA 2024? We’d love to hear from you—drop us a comment or connect with us on social media!