The growing popularity of retro/old school hot rods in the aftermarket world has inspired Toyota to take a Texas-built Tundra Regular Cab full-size pickup and prove that a present day economical work truck could realistically be made into an American hot rod. Toyota also wanted to show consumers that Tundra is a truck that not only works hard, but plays hard too. The result is the Tundra Hot Rod, which takes a fun look at what a Toyota Tundra pickup truck might have looked like if it had been part of the iconic 1950s and ‘60s hot rod era.
The Tacoma TX Package Concept was developed for the 2009 SEMA Show to gauge public reaction to its unique design themes and multiple performance modifications. The Tacoma TX is equipped with an impressive list of Toyota Racing Development (TRD) performance accessories and two unique graphics along each side of the truck. SEMA attendee reaction to the Tacoma TX will help enable Toyota to make necessary refinements and finalize a package available for Tacoma buyers in future model years.
The Toyota Tacoma All-Terrain Gamer (ATG) combines outdoor sports activities and video games to create the ultimate active lifestyle vehicle for young Tacoma pickup truck owners. The special vehicle was designed to take Tacoma owners to their favorite remote locations where they can pursue their passion for outdoor sports activities and also provide a haven at the end of the day to play their favorite interactive video games.
Just one year after Ford unveiled the 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor at the SEMA show, Ford today is announcing the long-anticipated power figures for the all-new 6.2-liter premium V-8 engine now available in this ultimate high-speed off-road performance truck. When this optional powertrain in the Raptor arrives in showrooms in early 2010, the 6.2-liter V-8 will produce 411 hp and 434 ft.-lb. of torque, making Raptor the most powerful half-ton pickup available. Customers will now have the choice of two V-8 engines in the Raptor, Ford’s proven 5.4-liter Triton V-8 or the new 6.2-liter V-8, which can be ordered beginning Dec. 1, with an MSRP of $41,995 including destination and delivery.
If you want to check out what's going on at the SEMA Show right now in Las Vegas, check out the MOTORZ TV Live Webcam and see the Ford booth and Central hall being set up right now!
Also check out the Live Webcam page for a show schedule of live installations being performed by the MOTORZ TV crew during the week of SEMA!
Hot rodders have always lived by the motto "There's no replacement for displacement," indicating that the more cubic inches an engine has, the better the resulting performance. Ford Powertrain and Detroit Street Rods are out to prove that thinking out-of-date with their EcoBoost™-powered '34 Ford hot rod.
The Jeep “Lower Forty” takes the Jeep Wrangler platform to a new extreme. The vehicle is equipped with massive 40-inch x 13.5-inch tires mounted on Mopar’s 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels. Mopar added aggressive wheels and tires to a stock, two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon without the use of a suspension lift. The team’s goal was to achieve added ground clearance without dramatically altering the vehicle’s center of gravity. The team removed copious amounts of body metal in order to provide room for 40-inch meats. Three inches are chopped from the windshield frame and a 10-degree rake is added.
The Jeep Wrangler Overland is perfect for those craving travel and adventure. The Mopar design team took a 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon and turned it into a mobile “on-the-go” self-contained campsite. To increase cargo capacity for hauling gear, the Jeep Wrangler Overland’s rear seats are replaced with a large, flat, rubberized utility floor. Mounted to the cargo rack is an all-new ARB two-person Simpson II rooftop-mounted tent and touring awning. The interior of the Jeep Wrangler Overland features water-resistant Mopar front-seat covers, rugged Mopar slush mats, a Daystar dash bin and lower switch panel that powers added accessories.
The Dodge Ram Bianco started life as a 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Sport with a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8. The Dodge Ram is modified to reflect an upscale feel and appearance with the aid of Mopar performance parts and accessories. Colors, textures and accessories are combined in a manner that showcases the sophisticated side of the Dodge Ram 1500.
The new 2011 Ford Super Duty is the ultimate tough truck on any job site. With all-new powertrains, upgraded capability and tougher-than-ever new styling, the rugged, durable and strong truck is a valuable member of any work crew. This custom DeWALT edition of the new Super Duty is designed to drive improved productivity and performance for the serious contractor with a host of innovative features and upgrades inside and out. One of the most powerful enhancements is Ford Work Solutions™, the exclusive system from Ford that helps turn Super Duty into the ultimate mobile office and helps contractors effectively manage their tool inventories through Tool Link™ and Customized On-Board Storage.
The Banks iQ is a true dashboard PC packed with functions and applications for use inside and outside of your vehicle. Use the 5” color touch screen Banks iQ for adjusting power levels, controlling downhill cruising speed, adjust braking intensity, custom tune numerous performance parameters, measure vehicle performance, readyour altitude and GPS corrected speed and more all on the fly!
Project FX2 Sport 6.2L H.O. showcases the new Ford F-150, the Ford Vehicle Personalization Team, Ford Racing, Genuine Ford Accessories and Ford Licensed Accessories. Starting with America’s best-selling full-size pickup for 32 straight years, the Vehicle Personalization Team delivers the new head-turning 2010 F-150 FX2 Sport production package.
Malibu Customz has taken their talent for customization and accented it by teaming up with world-renowned artist Mickey Harris to create the 2009 “Freedom Truck” as a tribute to all the people who serve or have served in the U.S. armed forces.
Chevrolet recently uploaded a promotional video on YouTube to showcase their upcoming graphics packages for the 2010 Camaro and allow fans to vote for the vehicle via their Facebook page. If you look closely in the background and turn on HD mode, you'll notice something in the works of a new pickup truck. When I did this I was able to read the rendered artwork which states "Silverado Baja Offroad Vehicle". It looks as if Chevrolet is trying to contend with Ford's 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor and our guess is that Chevrolet will release a concept vehicle at the 2009 SEMA Show showing off the new offroad truck. Stay tuned.
The crew at K-Daddyz Kustomz has applied their street influence with a touch of urban luxury to this Ford F-150. Staying true to their “In Your Face” style of building, this truck boasts 24-inch wheels with a radical air bag suspension. The custom two-tone paint grabs your attention while remaining classy. And in case you really need to get there quickly, the 5.4-liter supercharged engine will deliver. Whether drawing crowds at a show or turning heads on the boulevard, this F-150 plays for keeps. After all, it’s Built Ford Tough.
In partnership with Ford Motor Company, MOTORZ TV is giving away a pair of tickets to the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas (provided by M80 Marketing on behalf of Ford) which takes place 11/3-11/6. The giveaway ends October 28, 2009 (next Wednesday). This is open to the general public!
Last week the big announcement that MOTORZ TV will be live at the SEMA Show hit the news, and it gets even better this week with a brand new announcement that you'll be interested in if you can't make it to Las Vegas for this year's SEMA Show!
The entire 3-day-long event will be streamed live (audio & video) to the MOTORZ TV website so you can not only see and hear everything that goes on, but get a bit of a behind-the-scenes look as well!
Superlift Suspensions and Hot Wheels have teamed up to create a custom Ford F-150 for the 2010 SEMA Show this year. The truck features a 6 inch Superlift suspension kit, 20x9 American Outlaw wheels with 35 inch BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tires. Other upgrades include custom "Hot Wheels" graphics to match the toy, Bushwascker fender flares, AMP Research power steps, Magnaflow exhaust, and a Kicker audio system.
Ebay is holding a contest called "The 2009 Motors Master Contest" where users have the chance to win a free trip to the 2009 SEMA Show, Title of Motors Master 2009, or a $2,500 eBay Motors shopping spree. To enter, users must submit a short video showing their favorite automotive project and tell them why eBay should choose them to be the Motors Master. The contest ends September 7th and winners will be announced October 1st.
Truckblog's very own Chris Duke, also host of MOTORZ TV, will be speaking this weekend at the 2009 Internet Symposium, on Saturday August 1st at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, CA. The symposium will discuss how to take advantage of creating video and successfully distributing it across the internet. Chris will be joined by John Naderi, Executive Editor of StreetFire.net, Famous Rhodes, Director of eBay Motors, James Lawrence of PowerTV, and Josh Biggers of Stillen.
The symposium is open to everyone, however SEMA members pay a discounted rate. For registration details, head on over to www.SEMA.org.
The all-new 2009 Ford Flex and the new 2009 Ford F-150 are the most “accessory-friendly” SUV and truck, respectively, according to members of the automotive media who selected winners for the most recent SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Design Awards. SEMA Design Awards honor vehicles a select group of voters chose as the most inviting and receptive to accessorization in four categories: car, SUV, truck and hybrid. Several unique, customized interpretations of both the Flex and F-150 were on display in Las Vegas at the SEMA show, the world’s premier automotive specialty products trade event.
Truckblog's very own Chris Duke, also host of MOTORZ TV, will be speaking at the 2009 Internet Symposium, Saturday August 1st at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, CA. The symposium will discuss how to take advantage of creating video and successfully distributing it across the internet. Chris will be joined by John Naderi, Executive Editor of StreetFire.net, Famous Rhodes, Director of eBay Motors, James Lawrence of PowerTV, and Josh Biggers of Stillen.
The symposium is open to everyone, however SEMA members pay a discounted rate. For registration details, head on over to www.SEMA.org.
Ford Motor Company will be the featured automaker of the 2009 SEMA Show taking place Nov. 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. “Ford has always been a strong supporter of SEMA and our industry," said Christopher J. Kersting, president and CEO of SEMA. “We are pleased to announce their participation as Vehicle Manufacturer of the Show and to be collaborating with them on several branding and technology programs.”
Now available: a dynamic new look for www.SEMA.org and a host of new benefits for SEMA members. The modernized site blends new technologies to enhance networking and delivers information more concisely, based on user preferences. The website overhaul is part of a continuing investment by SEMA in better networking and communications for SEMA members. “Over the years we heard from the membership about ways that the website could serve the industry better,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “Most recently, the team assigned to building the site reached out to our members to understand specific improvements that could be made.”
Well SEMA.org also conducted a study of the top 10 most popular full-size pickup truck accessories. Here are the results from that study including their percentages with heavy duty trailer hitches winning the most popular accessory:
1) Heavy-Duty Trailer Hitch at 70.5 percent
2) Satellite Radio at 61.6 percent
3) Running Boards at 59.9 percent
4) Fog Lamps at 57.2 percent
5) Custom Floormats at 49.2 percent
6) Spray-On Bedliner at 48 percent
7) Custom Wheels at 45.9 percent
8) Tailgate Protector at 43.2 percent
9) iPod/MP3 Connectivity at 42.2 percent
10) Wheel Splash Guards at 41.6 percent
A report by SEMA.org has unveiled that in 2008 Cadillac Escalade EXT owners spent the most money on aftermarket products for their pickup trucks than any other pickup truck class. The average full size pickup truck owner spent $1,831 on aftermarket accessories while midsize truck owners only spent an average of $835. The average Cadillac Escalade EXT owner spent $5,814, two and a half times the amount. Out of the other full size pickups, the Chevrolet Avalanche was number two on the list with an average of $2,652 spent, Nissan Titan number 3 at $1,468, Lincoln Mark LT at $1,414 per truck. The Toyota Tundra, Ford F-Series pickups, Chevrolet and GMC pickups and even the Dodge Ram all missed the podium in this race.
Washington lawmakers are drafting a large economic stimulus package to help create jobs and rebuild infrastructure. They want to include a nationwide scrappage program which would give U.S. tax dollars to consumers who turn-in older cars to have them crushed, as a misguided attempt to spur new car sales. The lawmakers need to scrap this idea. The stimulus package is being drafted right now. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) wants to introduce the bill on January 6 and have it approved by Congress by January 20, so that President Obama can sign it into law after he is inaugurated.
In an article by Autoweek, General Motors have made the decision to place a large chunk of their custom cars and pickup trucks up for auction at the Barrett Jackson auction in Scottsdale, Arizona next month. GM are sorting through more than 1,000 vehicles that sit at the Heritage Center in Detroit, Michigan, a privately owned special vehicle fleet building. The decision is somewhat sadenning, as the center houses over 100 years of General Motors history. Up for grabs are numerous custom trucks that GM designed and built for the SEMA show over the years, as well as some that are "slightly used at the Heritage Center". If you want to own a little bit of GM's history yourself, head on over to the Barrett Jackson website for more details about their auction next month.
The all-new 2009 Ford Flex and the new 2009 Ford F-150 are the most “accessory-friendly” SUV and truck respectively, according to members of the automotive media who selected winners for this year’s SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) Design Awards. SEMA Design Awards honor vehicles a select group of voters chose as the most inviting and receptive to accessorization in four categories: car, SUV, truck and hybrid. Several unique, customized interpretations of both the Flex and F-150 were on display earlier this month in Las Vegas at the SEMA show, the world’s premier automotive specialty products trade event.
Airaid received the "Best New Off-Road/4-Wheel Drive Product" award at SEMA earlier this month for their cold air intake system for the 2007 to 2009 GM Silverado HD trucks equipped with the Duramax Diesel. The system itself improves power, performance and economy numbers. It features an Airaid premium filter with SynthaFlow technology and comes with complete hardware and instructions. For more information visit www.airaid.com.
Just in case you crawled under a rock last week and did not get the memo about our SEMA coverage, this weeks "Monday Morning Recap" is comprised of our SEMA coverage from last week including the launch of Ford's SVT Raptor F-150 and sighting of the 2009 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition. MOTORZ also launched their 13th episode, a full how-to installation of an Alpine Electronics stereo system.
For a huge list of all our SEMA blogs from last week, go to live.truckblog.com.
MOTORZ TV have walked the floors of the 2008 SEMA Show all week long searching for the latest aftermarket products from manufacturers to install on their how-to installation series. Keep checking www.Motorz.tv for future episodes and products for both trucks and muscle cars!
If you have not checked out the 13th episode, the Alpine Electronics Audio Upgrade, is now online at our videos page, as well as on the MOTORZ website and Apple iTunes. The video shows you how to upgrade the stock speakers on a Ford F-150 replacing them with high end component speakers, subwoofer, and amplifiers from Alpine Electronics, a subwoofer enclosure from SuperCrewSound.com, and yellow top deep cycle battery from Optima Batteries.
Ed Hellwig, Senior Editor of Edmunds' Inside Line had the opportunity to test drive the 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor pickup truck out in the Nevada desert prior to SEMA. The video below showcases an interior view of the truck in action, as well as its handling, ride quality, and ability to suck up the bumps at over 90 miles per hour.
AT&T is launching CruiseCast, a state of the art satellite technology for your vehicle with 22 video channels and 20 audio channels, nationwide. For more information check out www.cruisecast.com
The Banks Ram Air Intake is now available for the Chevrolet 6.6 liter diesel pickup trucks. The kit itself features a patented Super Scoop that produces 39 horsepower and 69 foot pounds of torque. For more information check out www.bankspower.com
Edge Products introduced their CS and CTS color touch screen digital displays. They feature easy to navigate button free controls and color displays. The Cts even has a RCA jack for a backup camera. www.edgeproducts.com
Extang have released their solid fold hard folding tonneau for almost all pickup truck applications including the 2009 Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram. The cover weighs 50 pounds and can be easily stored within minutes. The cover is made of a honey comb construction and is made of all aluminum. For more information visit www.extang.com
I know I have posted on a number of occasions in the past that I love LED’s. LED Technologies has a FULL line of headlights and tail lights including WHITE super intensity reverse lights for a number of applications.
Ansani Designs are releasing their custom light bumpers for the Ford Super Duty, F-150, Dodge Ram, Nissa. Titan, Toyota Tundra, Toyota FJ and Jeep Wrangler. The bumper holds 9″ lights from Hella and retails for $500 for the bumper, lights sold separately. For more information check out www.ansanidesigns.com
Rubicon Express now have a rear adjustable track bar for Jeep Wrangler JK’s. Available for both 2 and 4 door applications, the rear bar is made for lifts of 3.5 inches and more. The bar is adjustable for maximum clearance and is constructed of 4130 chromoly steel. For more information visit www.rubiconexpress.com
Baja Rack have released their aftermarket roof rack that is made for the Toyota FJ Cruiser, Hummer H3, Jeep Commander and Wrangler, and the Nissan Xterra. Made out of high carbon steel, the rack has a dual wind reflector that eliminates wind noise. Accessories include a high lift jack mount, tool mounts, spare tire mounts, and light rack tabs. The rack features double powder coating for protection and weighs in at 48 pounds with capacity of 400 pounds. The Baja Rack retails for $595 and can be found at www.bajarack.com
We came across what looks to be the next generation 2009 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition pickup truck. Loaded with a chrome grille, custom 20 inch wheels, black monotone paint accents, and custom orange flames on the hood and sides of the truck.
Flowmaster have developed a new pro series muffler called “shortie” which features a compact 12 inch long muffler. Available in either a 3 inch or 3.5 inch diameter inlet and outlet, the new mufflers integrate Flowmasters sound cancellation technology. The muffler is constructed out of 409S stainless steel and is proudly made in the USA. For more information check out www.hushpower.com.
Baer Brakes have released their exclusive offroad racing brake 6 piston kit. The six piston calipers include a one bleeder system with an internal cross over to prevent accidents and potential breaks while on the trail. The system itself retails for approximately $630 each. For more information visit www.baer.com
Ground Force have released a 2 inch to 4 inch lowering kit for the 2009 Ford F-150 pickup truck. The suspension system is comprised of aftermarket lowering springs, shocks, front coil springs, blocks and all the necessary hardware. For more information visit www.groundforce.com.
Airaid now offering a cold air intake for the 2002 to 2009 Dodge Ram 4.7 liter pickup trucks. Designed as an easy installation, the intake can help increase gas mileage by 5 miles per gallon and provides great acceleration benefits. For more information check out www.airaid.com
Hellwig Products are now offering an adjustable rear sway bar for the 2005 to 2008 Nissan Frontier pickup truck. Designed to reduce body roll by up to 40 percent, the sway bar is made out of 4140 heat treated chromolly steel. For more information check out www.hellwigproducts.com.
Hellwig Products have also released their EZ984 helper springs for the 2004 to 2008 Ford F-150 pickup trucks. They are rated for 2,000 pounds to help level your load in the bed. For more information check out www.hellwigproducts.com
Hellwig Products are launching their air helper springs for the 2005 to 2009 Toyota Tacoma 4×4 pickup truck. The springs are designed to assist with the extra load that can be applied to the light duty truck, especially for camping gear. For more information check out www.hellwigproducts.com.
Ford brought their Raptor F-150 pickup truck to SEMA which actually is leaving as we speak for the famous Baja 1,000 race in Baja California towards the end of this month. Cool truck!
Browsing through the new products showcase here at SEMA, we came across this cool iPhone interface that connects to your vehicles OBDII port and allows you to view diagnostics and performance data via iPhone or iPod touch.
AMP Research are continuously pushing the envelope with the automotive industry and are working on two new patented products, a Dual Access lid for your pickup truck bed and center console. How it works is with a unique latching system that allows you to open the lid from either side. Check out Truckblog for further developments!
Off Road Evolution’s EVO Crawler Jeep is one slick offroading vehicle. The suspension has been upgraded with EVO coil overs for the front and rear, EVO custom bump stop, skid plate, drive shaft, fenders, and axles. A custom ARB bumper occupies the front end with winch assembly.
Protech have released their all aluminum welded tail gate replacement and custom tool box for common pickup trucks and SUV’s. The assembly also has a rear rack to protect the rear window and has mounts for offroad lights. For more information visit www.protech.net
Tiregate came to SEMA this week with their Chevrolet Silverado desert truck that has been outfitted with CST Suspension long travel kit, Fox 2.5 inch coil over shocks, 17″ ATX wheels wrapped with 35″ Toyo Open Country tires, custom light bar, Volant intake, Bully Dog programmer, KC offroad lights and wrapped in APE custom graphics.
Innovative Customs brought their super extra mega long bed Dodge Ram MegaCab truck to SEMA this year. This thing is looooong! 22′6″ long, which is 6″ longer than a stock F-250 CrewCab with a long bed.
Once again the almighty SEMA 2008 Project Truck Mega Blog has been updated with the addition of another vehicle by ICON 4x4 Design for Toyota Motor Corporation, a Lexus LX570 luxury SUV.
Take a look at the other 20 plus trucks that we blogged about and will be seen at next weeks show. If you haven't gotten the memo yet about Truckblog's Live Blogging of the SEMA Show next week, click here to read the details.
Our SEMA 2008 Project Truck Mega Blog has been updated with the addition of two new vehicles, Banks Engineering diesel powered dragster and Ford's F-150 Heavy Duty DEWALT Contractor Concept. Make sure you check out the other 20 trucks that will be found at the show next week.
Jalopnik got the opportunity to test drive American Expedition Vehicles' Jeep Wrangler JK packed with a HEMI V8, the same JK that can be found at the SEMA Show next week. What did Jalopnik think of this eight cylinder bad boy? "A seriously badass Wrangler" and we at Truckblog agree! The Jeep is equipped with Chrysler's 5.7 liter HEMI V*, a set of 4.88 gears, heat extractor hood, Flowmaster exhaust, and custom suspension lift. Check out their review by clicking here.
The 2008 SEMA Show is just days away and over the past couple of months, we've been bringing you the latest project vehicles that will debut next week in Las Vegas, Nevada. These vehicles represent some of the automotive industries most customized rides built by aftermarket parts companies and automotive manufacturers. In addition to these unique vehicles, MOTORZ TV have entered two vehicles in of their own, a 2005 Ford F-150 SuperCrew and a 2006 F-250 SuperDuty Crew Cab. Check out all of the cool rides inside.
Make sure you visit Truckblog.com all week long beginning November 2nd for our Live Blogging! For more details, click here.
PML Flightlink, an electric vehicle company, are bringing their electric powered Ford F-150 to the 2008 SEMA Show next week. Powered by four Hi-PA printed armature electric motors mounted on each wheel, the truck features a plug-in hybrid power train which helps reduce weight by eliminating the need for a transmission, driveshaft, differential and axle.
Partnering with HUMMER, Four Wheeler Magazine built an H3 Alpha with an all-business demeanor and greater off-road capability, while retaining daily-driver comfort and fuel economy. The project, dubbed "Trailhugger," started by "de-glossing" the H3. That entailed painting the chrome and bright trim flat black and modifying the factory's shiny Victory Red clear coat paint job with a special PPG flattening agent mixed with clear to give it a satin appearance. The editors also added HUMMER's brush guard, roof lighting and rocker protection accessories.
Custom truck company, X-Treme Toyz, has built another cool truck this year for the 2008 SEMA Show, this time selecting a 2009 Ford F-150 SuperCrew FX4 as their project vehicle. Named "Fahrenheit F-150", the pickup truck earned its name by the unique paint job on the trucks exterior. President of X-Treme Toyz, Mike Duval, stated "I intend to create a hot, functional lifestyle truck with universal appeal...The paint scheme will accent the truck’s name, with a glimpse into its molten interior through tears in the black paint. The vehicle … will demonstrate the wide accessory potential of the 2009 F-150". The truck has been lifted 6 inches in the air with a Fabtech suspension system combined with Dirt Logic shocks. Custom sway bars were also added along with an air-assist overload capacity system.
The official SEMA 2008 countdown has begun. Exactly one week from today it's going down, Truckblog.com, Las Vegas, right here, right now. A summary of Truckblog's Live Blogging can be found here.
Check out the list below of our top stories from last week:
We already brought you ICON 4x4's Toyota FJ45 SEMA project vehicle earlier this month, and now we bring you their second vehicle, a Toyota Land Cruiser called "Baja FJ43". This custom offroad vehicle features a 450 horse power LS series alloy V8, 4L65E auto transmission, Atlas II transfer case, Dynatrac axles, big brakes, custom mandrel bent frame, Dynatrac ProRock high pinion Dana 60 rear axle...
The HUMMER H3 X Alpha is a stylish and capable vehicle straight from the factory, but the H3 X Concept takes style and exclusivity to the next level. Production equipment includes bright roof crossbows; chrome fuel filler door, assist steps and brush guard; body-color grille and spare tire cover; 18-inch wheels and embroidered seat headrests.
The H3T Weekend Warrior concept demonstrates the added extreme capability and functionality that can be accomplished with the H3T and a few weekends in the garage. Enhanced performance under the hood and from the suspension is due to the development work of HUMMER's off-road engineers and the technology transfer from HUMMER's championship-winning racing program. Starting with a new H3T Alpha, engineers added nearly 70 horsepower to its 5.3L V-8 via components available through GM Performance Parts. They include LS2 cylinder heads (part number 12576063), a higher-lift camshaft (part number 12574519) and supporting components. Also enhancing performance is a custom, 3.5-inch exhaust system.
AMP Research and MOTORZ have teamed up to bring you step-by-step instructions for outfitting your vehicle with AMP products. MOTORZ TV, a revolutionary new online instructional web-video series has produced three video episodes featuring AMP product installations that are now featured on Apple iTunes podcast MOTORZ. These videos are an easy, entertaining way to get the information you need to install the AMP Research Power Step, BedStep™, or Bed X-Tender™.
The whole tenth season of the very popular automotive television series, Top Gear, is now available for download on Apple iTunes. They do charge $1.99 per episode and offer the whole season for $14.99, but an alternative to their show is our own podcast, MOTORZ TV available in standard definition and stunning high definition for FREE. Can't beat that!
The 12th season of Top Gear begins again on November 2nd, but you won't care about their new episodes because you will be too busy coming back to Truckblog all day long for our Live Blogging that begins that week!
Just a friendly reminder that the 2008 SEMA Show is less than two weeks away and the crew here at Truckblog are very excited to announce "Truckblog LIVE", live coverage of the 2008 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada! Here is a break down:
- Live blogging starts November 2nd and ends November 7th, straight from the SEMA Show itself in Las Vegas, Nevada.
- Check back hourly for updates! You can visit the truckblog.com home page or go to live.truckblog.com to check out the latest news during the show.
- Be sure to comment on a blog if you would like us to find more information about it.
- Our sister site, www.MuscleCarBlog.com, will also feature live blogging of all the hottest muscle car products.
Using a 2009 Dodge Ram Sport, the exterior blackberry paint really plays up the Dodge Ram Mopar Street Package. This Mopar Underground concept truck features a Mopar body kit consisting of sill extensions and a chin-spoiler. A slight Mopar body drop/leveling kit and Mopar concept 22-inch polished Alcoa forged wheels add to the appearance.
The most noticeable aspect of the 2009 Dodge Ram Sportsman is the unique blowing-leaves paint scheme inspired by a new interpretation of traditional camouflage designed by Mopar Underground. The paint is protected by a set of accent Mopar wheel flares and running boards with an integrated step. The Sportsman features Dodge’s exclusive RamBox storage system, filled with plenty of outdoor gear, and the bed rail system holds a cargo rack for additional cargo capacity.
Famous family owned off-road company, Baldwin Motorsports, are presenting one of their new 2008 Ford F-150 luxury trophy truck at the SEMA show next month. Constructed out of a Cromoly steel frame with the finest American technology and craftsmanship available, the Ford F-150 is one bad ass off road vehicle. The Baldwin's threw in a 427 cubic inch, Roush Racing motor under the hood that pushes 557 horse power and 601 foot pounds of torque. Check out the full list of goods and photos inside.
The 2009 Dodge Ram TRXtreme plays up the off-road capabilities of the 2009 Ram TRX package. Starting life with a quad cab TRX-4 off-road truck, it was easy to upgrade this truck to a serious off-road machine. Mopar Underground design team added 4.5-inches of extra ground clearance using a Mopar lift kit. This made room for Mopar polished and forged 20-inch wheels wrapped in knurly BFG 37X12.50’s.
Street Scene Equipment from Costa Mesa, California have decided to customize a 2009 Ford F-150 Lariat crew cab pickup truck for this years SEMA show. Street Scene EQ are hooking up the truck with it's aftermarket exterior body kit which includes a new bumper cover, side skirt, wiper cowl, roll pan, hidden hitch, Cal-Vu side mirrors, a cusom black chrome grille, bed caps, tailgate wing and handle relocator kit...basically everything Street Scene produces.
Last week we bought you two new SEMA project trucks, the Turbonetics 2009 F-150 and ICON's Toyota FJ45 classic pickup truck. The 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 Crew Cab truck was put to the test, as well as Toyota placing the Tundra Heavy Duty under its own tests of whether or not the truck will survive. General Motors and Toyota Motor Corporation both announced huge savings deals on new vehicles, and Ford's new 6.7 liter diesel engine was spotted.
Famous turbocharger manufacturer, Turbonetics, chose a 2009 Ford F-150 as their project truck at the 2008 SEMA show this year. Loaded with a ceramic ball-bearing turbo, the factory 5.4 liter eight cylinder motor will be woken up with an additional 100 horse power. A Spearco intercooler was also added in front of the bumper to help cool down the truck. The truck features a Suspension Max lowering kit laying on a set of GAC 24x9.5 inch wheels with Yokohama Prada Spec-X 295/35R25 tires.
Off Road pioneers, ICON 4x4 are debuting one of their two vehicles for the 2008 SEMA show, a Toyota FJ45 pickup truck. The old FJ has been renovated to its original specifications, replacing the old body panels and rusty frame with new parts. ICON then upgraded the front end with a custom bumper and winch assembly, ICON grille, added BFGoodrich tires, 17 inch black off road wheels, canvas pop top roof, Dynatrac axles, aftermarket leaf springs, off road lights with light bar, Chevrolet Vortech eight cylinder motor, custom seats and more.
The largest story from last week was the announcement of Truckblog's Live Blogging at the 2008 SEMA Show which is less than one month away. With that announcement, there has also been some news regarding manufacturers and their individual project vehicles for the show. Check out the new "SEMA trucks" below, along with a re-cap of news from last week.
Toyo Tires released information today about their Toyota Tundra SEMA truck. Lifted on 40 inch Toyo Mudd terrain tires and 20 inch black beadlock wheels, the Tundra features a Road Armor bumper, winch assembly, Rolling Big Power custom grille, blacked out head lights, Bushwhacker fender flares, custom green and black tribal flames, N-Fab side steps, Tinted tail lights, custom interior, and more.
Our blog over at the MOTORZ TV website has been updated again, this time with the announcement of several manufacturers who will be displaying our installation videos at the 2008 SEMA Show next month!
The 2008 SEMA Show is exactly one month away and the crew here at Truckblog are very excited to announce "Truckblog LIVE", live coverage of the 2008 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada! Here is a break down:
- Live blogging starts November 2nd and ends November 7th, straight from the SEMA Show itself in Las Vegas, Nevada.
- Check back hourly for updates! You can visit the truckblog.com home page or go to live.truckblog.com to check out the latest news during the show.
- Be sure to comment on a blog if you would like us to find more information about it.
- Our sister site, www.MuscleCarBlog.com, will also feature live blogging of all the hottest muscle car products.
Last week we brought you Performance West Group's Ford F-350 Striker SEMA 2008 project vehicle that resembles the very popular Shelby GT500KR muscle car. Now details of Performance West Groups' Ford F-150 have been revealed.
Just like its bigger brother, the F-350 Striker, the F-150 version shares body styling upgrades similar to the Shelby GT500KR and features a black anodized diamond mesh grille, twin hood scoops that feed the supercharged 5.4 liter eight cylinder motor, billet front fender vents, side scoops, "Badass Blue" Le Mans-style racing stripes, and more. The interior has been upgraded with Katzkin Leather Interiors, aluminum racing pedals, auxiliary gauges, and a Sony Electronics Xplod infotainment system.
The 2008 SEMA Show is right around the corner and we at Truckblog are anxiously awaiting it. Last week Performance West Group announced their Ford F-350 Striker pickup truck, which is one wicked ride that takes inspiration from the Shelby GT500KR muscle car. The automotive industry began to pickup again last week with updates coming from Ford, Dodge, Nissan, Jeep, and Chrysler.
SEMA,SEMA,SEMA,SEMA,SEMA,SEMA...the big show is almost here! As we near the "one month away" mark from the 2008 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, the crew here at Truckblog want to re-mix the memories from last year with a review of photos.
If you happened to miss our coverage from last year or do not know what the SEMA show is, head on over to our 2007 SEMA photos gallery which features over 1,700 photos of the hottest pickup trucks, sport utility vehicles, booth babes, and more!
As a side note, MOTORZ will also be at the SEMA show finding new products for future installations. We will also be launching a new feature here at Truckblog just in time for the show so stay tuned for the details!
Last week we brought you the Mopar's Dodge Ram RT concept set to debut at the 2008 SEMA show. Today, I am bringing you the Mercedes-Benz GLK luxury sports utility vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz will emphasize its "star power" at the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show with four 2010GLK-Class showcars customized by leading aftermarket tuning firms. The four Mercedes-Benz GLK SEMA concepts showcase the bold, expressive nature of the GLK luxury SUV prior to its official showroom debut in January 2009.
