For the automotive aftermarket industry, the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas is the biggest and most influential event on the planet. Every year, the industry’s heavyweights, from OEMs to performance parts companies and custom car builders, descend on the show to debut their latest products, innovations, and jaw-dropping builds.
It’s not just a street machine and muscle car paradise, either. The SEMA Show highlights every corner of the automotive world: wild off-road 4x4s, exotics, JDM icons, lifted and slammed American pick-ups – you name it, it’s there. Even major manufacturers like Toyota, Ford and Kia use the show to debut concept cars.



With such a diverse range of automotive cultures on display, it’s no wonder the event sets trends that will trickle down to the rest of the automotive world over the coming years.
While not all of the emerging trends at SEMA 2024 were design-focused, as the founder of Melbourne’s The Render Garage, automotive design is kinda my thing, so here are some of the key design elements I noticed at the 2024 event.
TOP SEMA DESIGN TRENDS
1. Satin returns


Many top builds at the 2024 event sported satin-finished engine bays that allowed the engine to take centre stage by eliminating the reflections of a high-gloss finish. On the flipside, some builders went bold, using strong contrasting colours to make the engine bay pop. These bright colours often carried through to the car’s interior or other accents.
2. Beyond the pale

Solid pastel colours made a big comeback. These simple yet striking shades have always worked well on classic cars, and in recent years, OEMs have brought them back into their new-car colour ranges. At SEMA, the trend was impossible to ignore, with everything from street machines to 4x4s sporting pastel shades that felt both nostalgic and fresh.
3. Altered carbon




Carbonfibre continues to be the go-to material for anyone chasing both performance and style, and at SEMA, builders showcased it in a variety of ways. Some applied transparent colours over the carbon to create a subtle candy-like effect, while others exposed it in specific areas like stripes or accents, hinting at the lightweight material beneath. And of course, there were full-carbon builds that proudly left every panel bare to show off the craftsmanship.
4. Inside job



Vibrantly coloured interiors were back in a big way, eclipsing the always-popular monochrome look at SEMA 2024. Bold shades like red, blue, orange, green, white, and tan were everywhere, and the more they contrasted with the exterior colours, the better! Builders often extended these interior colours to other areas of the car, such as the engine bay or exterior accents, creating a cohesive yet striking aesthetic. At the same time, many builders leaned into retro-inspired cabins while incorporating modern conveniences, with classic leather finishes paired with contemporary updates like digital displays and modernised steering wheels.
5. Twist in the tail



Thanks to advancements in 3D design, printing and manufacturing, custom LED tail-lights are no longer just for OEM concept cars. Builders now have the tools to design and manufacture bespoke tail-light signatures with OE-level quality, giving their projects a unique and modern touch.
6. Exhaustive process

The pro touring influence remained strong at the 2024 event, with many cars featuring custom-designed diffusers integrated into their rear valances. These weren’t limited to radical builds, either – even subtle, understated projects embraced the trend. Unique exhaust outlets were another a stand-out feature, with everything from side exits to centre-high exits tailored to fit each car’s overall style.
7. Merit badges


With 3D scanning, printing and CNC machining becoming more accessible, creating custom badging is easier than ever. Done well, a bespoke badge can make a car look like a one-of-a-kind factory special edition, adding a personalised touch to the exterior, engine bay and cockpit.
OTHER HOTNESS
1. 80s Revival


SEMA 2024 saw GM’s G-body cars and other ’80s icons step into the spotlight. Once considered boxy and boring, these cars are now being transformed into head-turning restomods via tasteful modifications that celebrate their distinctive charm.
2. Handled with care


While flush-mounted door handles remained popular, hidden or shaved handles with poppers were a common sight at SEMA ’24. Side mirrors, either custom-designed or off-the-shelf (such as those produced by Ringbrothers) were also a hit.
3. Truck you

Love it or hate it, the Tesla Cybertruck was everywhere at SEMA 2024. Its polarising design was combined with wild wraps or distinctive wheel set-ups on many a promo vehicle throughout the trade stands. In 2023, the Bronco was the hot-ticket item– what will it be at the next SEMA?
4. Off-tap off-roaders restomodded


Broncos, Blazers and Jimnys were hotter than ever at SEMA 2024. With so many off-the-shelf suspension, drivetrain and interior upgrades available, these classic SUVs are being built to conquer both the trails and the streets.
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