If you remember SEMA 2021, you likely remember that there were a ton of concepts from Ford. Many of these were based on the Ford Bronco, but there was something for everyone. In total, Ford took a whopping 40 concepts to the Specialty Equipment Market Association show last year. Honda also brought a number of exciting concepts to the Las Vegas expo, and each manufacturer certainly made a splash worth remembering. But either these brands went too hard, or they simply have too much going on in 2022 because both Ford and Honda have declined to exhibit anything at this year's edition of the automotive extravaganza.
Nevertheless, we doubt that the show will suffer too much, as SEMA has already announced that more than 1 million ft2 of exhibitor space has already been committed. In fact, excitement for the show seems to be reaching new levels as "confirmed spaces are running 25% above 2021," says Warren Kosikov, SEMA VP of sales. Thus far, OEMs that have committed to the show include Chevrolet, Hummer, GMC, Toyota, Lexus, and Nissan. Stellantis will also showcase its products there and a new OEM arrives in the form of Volkswagen. Considering how many modified Golfs and Jettas are on the roads, it's amazing that VW didn't join the SEMA craze sooner.
The loss of Ford and Honda is a pity, as both brands tend to bring their best to the show. An exact reason for their absence has not been given besides "a change in corporate strategy" but both brands will continue to work with SEMA on programs like Tech Transfer and Measuring Sessions. Still, there should be plenty of Broncos and Integras at the show through aftermarket tuners and parts specialists, and more OEMs are sure to add their names to the roster in the coming weeks and months. There's still a long way to go: the show is planned for 1-4 November 2022.