The doors have been open less than 24 hours but the first awards for this year's SEMA show are already official. The 2400+ exhibitors showing off their customized automotive wares at SEMA 2016 have cast their votes and declared the top trending coupe, hatchback, sedan, pickup truck and SUV of this year's show based on what independent modifiers and car companies alike are showcasing on their stands.
The hottest coupe is the Ford Mustang (voted hottest car every year since 2012), and the hottest truck is the Ford F-Series (an award it has only failed to win once since 2010). And, while the hottest hatchback is a new award (replacing the hottest sport compact category) the winner is the same, the Ford Focus.
"Embracing the aftermarket industry is something we relish, and -- with Mustang, Focus and F-Series being back-to-back winners -- it appears the aftermarket appreciates our products as well," said Dave Pericak, global director, Ford Performance.
In recent years Ford has gone all out to court customization firms and to tap into customers' demands for something different. Ford's stand is the biggest at this year's show and boasts the largest number of cars (50) on display.
However, no car other than the Jeep Wrangler can claim to have a complete monopoly in its category. It has driven away with the hottest SUV award for the seventh year in succession.
"Jeep is one of the most accessory-friendly vehicles available," said SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting. "Given the vehicle's versatility as a daily driver and for off-road use, it comes as no surprise that the Jeep remains so popular among the automotive community."
According to Mopar, the Chrysler brand's dedicated customization arm, almost every Jeep Wrangler that leaves the production line in the US does so with at least one Mopar accessory or part, and on average, buyers spend $850 on personalizing their Jeep before delivery.
"The SEMA Show and SEMA members play a critical role in identifying the hottest trends and rides in the vehicle customization industry, which is why winning a SEMA Award represents an important recognition for our company," said Pietro Gorlier, Head of Parts and Service (Mopar), FCA - Global.
It was a double celebration for Mopar as the Dodge Charger is officially the first ever recipient of the hottest sedan award.
"The Dodge Charger is an iconic vehicle among muscle cars and is an example of how an already great vehicle can be made even greater through personalization and customization," said Kersting. "The SEMA Show exhibitors are the innovators and visionaries who help guide future trends in the industry."
