2009 SEMA Show: Hot rodders turning green

In among the acres of gleaming hot rods with untold hours of build time, lift-kitted Jeep Wranglers, and dazzlingly done ’57 Chevy customs here at Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) show, there’s another element to the Las Vegas event that seems to be gaining momentum.

The “Making Green Cool Zone” features a variety of customs with no less attention to detail than seen elsewhere in the show, but these cars and trucks are powered by an assortment of alternative powertrains, from diesels to hybrids to electrics. 

Tucked away at the back of the giant South Hall, traditionally the home of truck accessories, off-roading equipment, and at least one 10-foot tall Ford Expedition, the new kids in the hall provide an interesting contrast to SEMA’s more traditional roots as the organization develops its green side.

The Progressive Automotive X Prize also has a presence back there, and has brought 12 vehicles slated to compete in their competition to build a safe and production viable 100-mpg car. 

We’re as easily distracted by horsepower and a nicely done Camaro as anybody covering SEMA, but we plan to spend some time in the green zone while we’re here. We’ll report back with more details and pictures of what we see. Stay tuned.

—Jim Travers