SEMA 2024: Your Ultimate Guide

For those of us who love the automotive industry, it doesn’t get any better than the SEMA Show.

SEMA 2024 promises to be one of the biggest and most innovative yet, offering endless opportunities for learning, networking, and getting hands-on with the latest products and technologies.

Whether you’re attending for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro, here’s how to maximize your SEMA experience and make sure you don’t miss any of the show’s key highlights.

2024 SEMA Show Basics: What You Need to Know

Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada.

Dates: November 5-8, 2024.

Registration: To attend, you must register in advance through the official SEMA website. Registration links and event details can be found on the SEMA Registration Page.

Travel & Accommodations: Las Vegas offers a range of hotel options, and SEMA partners with several to provide special rates. It’s recommended to book accommodations early, as hotels fill up quickly during the event.

Transportation: The Las Vegas Convention Center is easily accessible by car, rideshare, or the Las Vegas Monorail. Many nearby hotels also offer shuttle services to and from the event.

Las Vegas Weather and Convention Center Tips

Attending SEMA in November means you’ll experience the mild desert climate of Las Vegas. Here’s what you need to know to stay comfortable and connected during the event:

Weather in November: November in Las Vegas is generally mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). While the weather is comfortable, the dry desert air can be dehydrating, so be sure to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Carry Water: With all the walking and standing you’ll be doing at the convention, it’s crucial to carry a water bottle to avoid dehydration. Many areas of the convention center have water stations, but having your own supply will save you time and keep you refreshed.

Charging Gear: The size of SEMA means you’ll likely rely on your phone or tablet for maps, schedules, and networking. Be sure to carry portable chargers or charging cables, as the convention center offers limited outlets and charging stations. Having extra battery power is essential for staying connected throughout the day.

WiFi Access: The Las Vegas Convention Center provides free WiFi access in most public areas, but it can get slow with the high volume of attendees. If you need reliable internet access, consider bringing a portable hotspot or upgrading to premium WiFi services available at the venue.

Working Areas: If you need a quiet place to catch up on emails or hold meetings, the convention center has designated working areas and lounges. These are great spots to recharge your devices, catch your breath, and stay productive in between exploring the show floor.

Stay Connected with the SEMA App

Be sure to download the SEMA Mobile App to help you navigate the vast SEMA show and make the most of your time. This essential tool offers a range of features that will streamline your experience and keep you organized throughout the event.

Why You Should Use the SEMA App:

- Interactive Maps: The app provides detailed, interactive maps of the convention center, making it easier to locate exhibitor booths, event spaces, and amenities.

- New Product Showcase: Quickly scan products in the New Product Showcase to access detailed information, view photos, and find the manufacturer’s booth location—all within the app.

- Personalized Schedules: Create a customized agenda by selecting the seminars, demos, and booths you don’t want to miss. You’ll receive reminders and updates so you’re always on top of your schedule.

- Networking: Use the SEMA Show app to connect with other attendees and exhibitors, exchange contact details, and schedule meetings.

- Real-Time Updates: Stay informed with live event notifications about schedule changes, announcements, and exclusive opportunities during SEMA.

With so much to see and do, the SEMA app helps you stay organized, informed, and connected, ensuring you get the most out of your time at the show.

What’s New At the SEMA Show In 2024?

SEMA 2024 brings a host of new features specifically designed to meet the evolving needs of industry professionals.

With cutting-edge technology showcases and expanded educational sessions, this year’s show promises to be a hub for innovation and industry insights. Here’s a preview of what’s new for 2024, tailored for those looking to stay ahead in the competitive automotive aftermarket.

1. FutureTech Studio

New for 2024, the FutureTech Studio takes the spotlight, offering an immersive experience that builds on last year’s SEMA Electrified exhibit. Attendees can dive into cutting-edge technology through:

Live education sessions that explore the latest advancements in performance technology.
Product displays showcasing future-forward innovations.
Sponsor vehicles highlighting how these technologies are redefining the performance aftermarket.

2. Overland Experience

The Overland Experience is back and bigger than ever, moving to an outdoor location to better display vehicles and gear in their natural environment. This specialized exhibit will feature:

Dozens of customized vehicles are equipped with fully popped-out tents, survival gear, and portable kitchen systems.
Exhibitors dedicated to showcasing products designed for the growing overlanding and off-road market.

3. Expanded Industry Education Program

SEMA 2024 boasts an even larger Innovative Industry Education Program, offering over 100 sessions designed to provide attendees with valuable insights into the latest aftermarket developments. Key sessions include:

Product innovation strategies.
Emerging trends in automotive technology.
Expert-led business development presentations designed to help industry professionals stay competitive.

4. Art Walk

New this year, the Art Walk offers attendees a unique opportunity to experience car culture through art. Premier artists from the automotive world will be displaying a variety of creative works, from murals to sculptures, celebrating the intersection of automotive passion and artistry.

5. Improved New Product Showcase

This year’s New Product Showcase has been enhanced to provide an even more interactive experience. Using the SEMA mobile app, attendees can now:

Scan products to access detailed information and photos instantly.
Easily locate manufacturers’ booths for follow-ups.
See the latest innovations poised to shape the future of the automotive aftermarket.

6. OPTIMA Village

The Optima Village returns in 2024 with more action-packed features, including:

Celebrity driver appearances and exciting live demonstrations.
Incredible project vehicles from OPTIMA will offer attendees a firsthand look at some of the most impressive builds and customizations on display.

The Power of Networking at SEMA: Best Practices

SEMA is one of the largest gatherings of automotive professionals, making it the perfect place to expand your network and build valuable business relationships. To make the most of these opportunities, here are some best practices to ensure your networking efforts are successful:

Be Prepared: Bring plenty of business cards and keep your contact details handy for quick exchanges. Consider using a digital contact-sharing tool to speed up the process.
Set Networking Goals: Prioritize which key industry players, potential partners, or exhibitors you want to connect with. The SEMA app can help you identify and locate them more efficiently.
Engage in Conversations: Strike up conversations at booths, seminars, and networking lounges. Be genuinely interested in what others have to offer and listen carefully to their needs—this builds rapport and trust.
Follow Up Promptly: After meeting new contacts, send a follow-up email or message within a day or two to maintain momentum and keep the conversation going.
Attend Networking Events: SEMA often hosts receptions and events tailored for networking. Make time to attend these gatherings, as they’re a more relaxed environment for making connections.

By following these best practices, you’ll be able to maximize your networking efforts at SEMA and create lasting relationships that benefit your business.

Visit PDM Automotive at SEMA 2024!

Ready to see how cutting-edge data solutions can transform your business? Stop by the PDM Automotive booth at SEMA 2024 to discover how we’re helping companies like yours streamline operations, optimize inventory, and stay ahead of the competition.

Booth: #11627

Hall: North Hall by eBay

PDM Automotive Team Members:

PDM Automotive Team Members:
Johannes Crepon – Co-Founder & CEO
Mark Vandegrift – Head of Product
Curt McDowell – Head of Revenue
Kelsey Summers – Customer Success Manager
Tim Morris – Sales Executive

Whether you’re looking for the latest in automotive data management or need expert advice on growing your aftermarket business, our team will be on hand to answer your questions and show you how our platform can give you a competitive edge.