An unmissable annual event for companies specializing in the design and manufacture of modified automotive parts as well as for workshops specializing in the subject, the SEMA show in Las Vegas has been held away from the public since 1963. The great annual event has such a powerful force of attraction that many builders participate in it. Although their list is shorter this year, certain vehicles on display remain fascinating. Here are a few.
Posted at 11:45 a.m.
Jeep CJ Surge Concept
After Ford did it last year with a 1978 F-100 pickup truck, it’s now Jeep’s turn to electrify an old classic. The engineers implanted a 200 kW (268 hp) electric motor in an old CJ, the ancestor of the Wrangler. The endearing adventurer retains its 4×4 system and gains a series of additions, including large 35-inch knobby tires, to make it more comfortable when negotiating crevassed trails, in silence.
Nissan Sunny Truck Project
PHOTO PROVIDED BY NISSAN
Nissan Sunny Truck Project, electric
Based on an imported 1987 Nissan Sunny small pickup truck, the Tommy Pike Customs custom shop showcased its expertise by electrifying it with the electric powertrain of a Nissan Leaf. At 147 hp, power seems modest, but it’s still double that of the original four-cylinder. The whole thing is embellished by several modifications to the chassis, including a Nissan 240SX front suspension in addition to the color scheme reminiscent of the cars of the Datsun racing program of the 1970s.
Toyota Supra
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOYOTA
The Toyota Supra exhibited at the SEMA show are real bombs.
Toyota was particularly present this year at SEMA with many vehicles at its booth. Between Sequoias and Tundras modified to tackle backcountry trails, the automaker introduced a pair of Supras capable of completing the infamous quarter mile in just 10 seconds using $10,000 worth of modifications. Its 620 hp showcase the extraordinary potential of its original BMW 3.0L six-cylinder turbo.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI Performance Concept
PHOTO PROVIDED BY VOLKSWAGEN
The Volkswagen Jetta GLI Performance Concept leaves the classic Jetta far behind.
Far from the placid Jetta that you can get at your Volkswagen dealership, this GLI has undergone a multitude of modifications. The manufacturer’s California design center has, among other things, widened its fenders, which house beautiful 20-inch Rotiform rims. Mechanically, the compact sedan sees its power increase to 350 hp and 372 lb-ft extracted from its turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder.