Some might argue that the majority of the products you see fresh out of development adhere to the old saying, "Same book, different cover." That may be true to some extent, but who cares if these parts aren't revolutionary but instead evolutionary? It never hurts to step up from the old technology and into the new. The SEMA show is a perfect showcase for the latest in aftermarket products, whether it's a hot set of wheels, a more efficient turbocharger, or a revamped air intake system. And if this show is any indication of what's to be expected for 2004, then it looks like tuning your car will be even more exciting than ever before. Do we have your attention now? Good. You may carry on.
GT4 Plays In Our World
As the publisher of the Gran Turismo racing franchise, Sony Computer Entertainment America wanted to present an award at SEMA to commemorate the upcoming launch of its highly anticipated GT4 game. The GT4 Awards was much more than just a venue filled with bad hosts and even worse acceptance speeches. The winners in five different categories were vying for a chance to be selected by the man himself, Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi, to have their car digitally recreated to appear in GT4.
Somehow, someone managed to give Yamauchi-san the stupid idea that we know something about these crazy cars. Because of that, he assigned us to help with the judging for the Best Japanese Import. After we wasted most of the day at the Bellagio buffet (you really must try the crab; it's to die for!), we wandered into the show. Chris Wilson's NSX was the first car we saw, so we chose it as the winner. It's a good thing the carbon-fiber widebody A-car was so tight; otherwise we'd look like fools. Unfortunately, Chris lost out to some old folks with a stunning Hot Rod of some sort. But since we were on a streak with our good decisions, we decided to shoot the NSX for an upcoming feature story, right after we got back from seconds at the Bellagio.
These Parties Are A Write-Off, Jerry
The SEMA Show. For some manufacturers, it's a chance to show off, and for others, it's a desperate plea for attention. There are no lengths we won't go to for you, dear reader, and in the name of investigative journalism, we didn't rest until we stopped at each soiree, sampled each party platter, violated each VIP room, and sucked down each libation. From what we could piece together from our tattered taxi receipts and crusty cocktail napkins, here's a list of some of the after-hours get downs. To all who invited us, thank you, and sorry about the mess we left in the bathroom.
American Honda SEMA Media Reception-Las Vegas Hilton Pavilion
Versus Motorsport presents Alive, featuring Donald Glaude-Seven Nightclub
Scion presents Trade featuring Tony Touch, Premier, and Kid Capri-Risque, Paris
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution RS party-Caramel Bar & Lounge, Bellagio
Toyota Media Reception-Las Vegas Hilton Ballroom
Ford and Goodyear faster-Las Vegas Hilton
Pioneer Dinner-Foundation Room, Mandalay Bay
Tireflys ColorMorphics Kick-off Party featuring Tone Loc-The Beach Nightclub
Sparco/Promotion/VU Games Party-Risque, Paris