Public to Get Peek at Car Trends

For the first time in its history, the Specialty Equipment Market Assn. is opening a piece of its huge annual trade show in Las Vegas to the public.

For two nights next week, more than 100 of the same types of customized, performance-enhanced, electronics-stuffed cars, sport-utility vehicles and pickups that will be gracing the SEMA show at the Las Vegas Convention Center will be displayed on the top three levels of the Hard Rock Hotel’s parking structure.

Tickets for the SEMA-hosted “Rock ‘n’ Rods” show, 5 to 11 p.m. Nov. 1 and 5 to 10 p.m. Nov. 2, are $15.

And if you wonder why a Las Vegas show rates mention in a Los Angeles paper: Well, Southern California is the heart of the automotive aftermarket industry and the soul of the custom car world.

Indeed, SEMA executives say they expect hundreds of local car enthusiasts to caravan across the desert for the event.

The carrot? Car club members who show their vehicles Nov. 2 will be admitted to the SEMA show Nov. 3--the first public viewing of the trade event that previews the coming year’s automotive accessory, appearance and performance trends.

Information: (877) 413-6515, toll free; https://www.enjoythedrive.com.