Audi to Participate at the SEMA Show for the First Time, Displays include 710HP R8 Spyder

There's a first time for everything. For Audi, it's SEMA as this year's edition of the show will mark the brand's first ever factory-backed appearance at the annual tuning extravaganza in Las Vegas.

In addition to its lineup of after sales and electronics products, Audi will put on display six-vehicles including the driver-less Autonomous Audi TTS Pikes Peak and a customized R8 Spyder tuned by STaSIS Engineering. The latter is equipped with a 5.2-liter supercharged V10 engine delivering 710-horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, and can complete the 0 to 60mph [96 km/h] sprint in 3.1 seconds.

"We're thrilled to be a part of the SEMA experience, and look forward to turning heads with our vehicles, demonstrations, and a sophisticated lineup of After Sales and electronics products that enhance connectivity and entertainment," said David Tait, Audi's lead After Sales executive and spokesman on the SEMA project.

"Our show cars will represent the pinnacle of what owners can do with an Audi, and unleash a variety of opportunities for our vendors, as well," he added.

Though no more specific details we given about the cars, Tait said: "Let's just say we'll have a few distinctive, concept items on the stand that definitely won't disappoint the unique SEMA audience".

The 2010 SEMA Show will take place in Las Vegas, Nevada from November 2-5.

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Chevrolet Video Teases 2010 SEMA Show Tunes

Next up on our motor show calendar is the biggest tuning event of 2010, the SEMA gathering in Las Vegas, and like every year, GM will be there with a huge display of vehicles. This time, the General is video-teasing some of the Chevrolet models that will descend on the Las Vegas convention center next month including several Corvettes, Silverados and you guessed it, a boat-load of Camaro builds. Scroll down to watch the clip.

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Hell Yeah; Dodge Teases Viper V10-Powered Chrysler 300 SRT10 on Video

Dodge has published a video of a current generation Chrysler 300 badged as the SRT10 and fitted with a Viper-sourced 8.4-liter V10 powerhouse on its official Youtube channel. The company did not provide any intel on the car, but it did ask the question, "What happens when you put a Viper engine into a Chrysler 300?". Feel free to post your answers in the comments section below.

A quick search on the net failed to return any results on the Chrysler SRT10, so this V10 powered project car could be anything from an older private build to a new tuning proposal for the upcoming 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas this November. We just don't know - yet.

Those of you with a strong memory, will surely recall the Detroit firm's 2008 SEMA Show Dodge Challenger SRT10 Concept car powered by the Viper's 8.4-liter V10 engine churning out 600 wild ponies and 560 lb. ft. of torque. If you don't remember it, scroll down and refresh your memory with the promo video.

Source: Dodge , Via: eGMcartech

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Customized 2011 Explorers and other Ford Models Teased Ahead of SEMA Show

FoMoCo is really gearing up for this year's edition of the Las Vegas SEMA Show in the beginning of November where it will display more customized models that we can keep track of. Aside from the Fiesta cars we told you about in a previous article, the Dearborn automaker has also joined forces with several other tuners to create customized versions of the all-new 2011 Explorer, Taurus SHO, Edge and Fusion Sport, as well as the all-new Lincoln MKX. Follow the jump to check out pictures and details on all of Ford's aftermarket-prepped models.

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2011 Ford Explorer by Funkmaster Flex and Team Baurtwell

An Explorer customized by Funkmaster Flex and Team Baurtwell shows off the urban appeal of the new SUV, and comes standard with street cred inside and out. The look is highlighted by three-piece forged billet wheels, which are complemented by 24-inch Cooper tires. Baer brakes provide the stopping power.

The design that sets this Explorer apart starts with the exterior, with custom touches from Team Baurtwell and Funkmaster Flex including custom logos. The interior offers Katzkin two-tone leather seats with custom interior accents and Funkmaster Flex logos. A Sony Xplod audio system ensures customers have the ultimate listening experience.

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2011 Ford Explorer by Galpin Auto Sports

Another Explorer concept, designed by Galpin Auto Sports, takes a vehicle with luxury appointments and makes it into an ultra-luxurious ride that even James Bond would enjoy. Using the character as their inspiration, the Galpin team used 24-inch wheels, custom silver paint on the exterior and modified exterior light treatments to convey that image.

The custom interior shows off its luxury side with a leather-trimmed headliner that has suede running down the center, a look that's replicated on the seat inserts. An iPad pops up from the second-row console, and is viewable in either landscape or portrait mode.

"This is a luxury, high-end vehicle that serves multiple purposes," said Tedros Mengiste of Galpin Auto Sports. "The Galpin Auto Sports Explorer is at home going off-road or transporting you to exclusive events. It meets your discerning expectations, and does it with style and substance."

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2011 Ford Explorer by CGS Performance Products

CGS Performance Products' take on Explorer shows off what a luxury vehicle for an active customer looks like. The look runs throughout the monochromatic silver Explorer, and is completed by two carbon fiber mountain bikes on the roof rack.

"This SUV is all about outdoor adventure and doing it in comfort," said Casey Scranton, president, CGS Performance Products. "This customer can use the vehicle every day and will have no problem taking it camping or kayaking on the weekends."

The luxury details are evident in the built-in video screens in the headrests, 22-inch silver wheels and the complete custom leather interior that's designed to resemble the links on a watch band. A CGS cat-back exhaust provides more power, a throatier sound, and even improved fuel economy.

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2011 Lincoln MKX by ID Agency

Fashion meets function with this unique Lincoln MKX by ID Agency, where brands such as Falken Tire, HRE Wheels, Brembo and Alpine electronics come together. Designed with the modern man in mind, the Urban Assault Vehicle is built to fit his active lifestyle.

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2011 Ford Taurus SHO by Rick Bottom Designs

The Taurus SHOx by Rick Bottom Designs gives striking looks a new meaning with a blue paint scheme with contrasting graphics, ground effects kit and custom hood, grille and spoiler. The interior offers a custom rear console with interchangeable inserts and a 10.4-inch flip-down monitor, along with an audio system with 16,000 watts of power.

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2011 Ford Taurus SHO by H&R Springs

Tuned by H&R Springs, this Taurus SHO offers a Borla cat-back exhaust and K&N air filter to liven up engine performance. H&R Sport Springs have been installed, and three-piece 22-inch wheels painted in a white gold color complement the white platinum SHO. The exterior is set apart with color-matched lower body panels, custom European hood vents and subtle gray mist graphics.

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2011 Ford Edge by K-Daddyz Kustomz

With a touch of urban luxury, this K-Daddyz Kustomz Edge boasts 22-inch wheels with radically lowered suspension. This Edge is ready to cruise the coast, with a custom paint scheme featuring airbrushing and pin striping, along with a custom surfboard rack and panoramic sunroof. The leather and suede interior comes with Dual Head restraint DVD by INVISION, and puts the finishing details on the crossover.

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2011 Ford Fusion Sport by Steeda Autosports

With increased power and more aggressive handling, this Fusion Sport by Steeda Autosports offers what performance enthusiasts are looking for. The car comes with specially tuned front and rear lowering sport springs, performance-tuned dampers and antiroll bars for increased roll stiffness. The look is rounded out with Steeda's clearcoat bar code graphics package with orange accents.

Rhys Millen Sports-up Hyundai's Equus Flagship for 2010 SEMA Show

The soon-to-be-launched onto the U.S. market Hyundai Equus doesn't exactly scream SEMA Show material, but that hasn't stopped the Korean firm from allowing Rhys Millen Racing (RMR) to customize their flagship limo for the Las Vegas tuning convention. Dubbed the RMR Signature Edition Equus, the S-Class sized saloon will be upgraded with a variety of exterior, interior and performance parts.

Starting with the car's exterior looks, the tuning proposal will sport a two-tone carbon fiber and Red Bull Racing blue satin clear paint by BASF along with carbon mirrors, front chin and rear deck spoilers plus massive 21-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the Signature Edition Equus is said to feature embroidered headrests and floor mats, and... ostrich hide leather seats with suede accents.

In the performance division, RMR a special air-intake and stainless steel sport exhaust will add 30 ponies to the 4.6-liter V8 engine pushing output to 415-horsepower. The car will also get a high-performance 14-inch brake kit.

"This is the third consecutive year we've partnered with Hyundai to bring a must-see car to the SEMA Show," said Rhys Millen, owner of the company. "The intelligent luxury platform of the new rear-wheel drive Equus is a perfect vehicle for tuners who have graduated from other segments and want to work with the best the automotive industry has to offer."

New Fiesta to Take Center Stage at Ford's SEMA Show Booth with 350HP Turbo Concept and Tuner Project Cars

Hot on the heels of the Euro-designed subcompact's U.S. market launch, Ford is planning to bring a gaggle of tuner Fiestas to this year's edition of the SEMA Show, which takes place at the Las Vegas Convention Center during the first week of November.

"SEMA represents a special opportunity, because we can show off unique designs that other companies have created," said Sam De La Garza, Fiesta brand manager. "It's not just Ford coming to the table. It's other companies interpreting what Fiesta is, and bringing their own style to the Fiesta launch."

Aside from the independent tuner project vehicles that you can read more about below, Ford's in-house Racing Performance Parts division will display a concept Fiesta fitted with a production-based 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged engine, enlarged to 2.3 liters to pump out 350 horsepower.

"The goal of our 350-horsepower Fiesta is really twofold – first to reinforce Fiesta's fun-to-drive nature with an extreme version that captures the attention of the influential enthusiast, and second, to introduce the Ford Racing/EcoBoost connection in a way that's unexpected and outrageous," said Mickey Matus, Ford Racing Performance group marketing manager.

The sported-up Fiesta will also get Brembo brakes, Ohlins dual-flow valve dampers, a short-throw shifter, a Ford Racing exhaust system, and 17-inch cast-aluminum alloy wheels.

Ford said the concept model, which will hit the show floor in a blue color, will be painted by an as of yet unnamed artist during the show with the intention of auctioning the car in the near future to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF).

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2011 Ford Fiesta by Ford Vehicle Personalization

The Ford Vehicle Personalization Fiesta uses green accent colors on the wheels and grille to set off the unique car, which is equipped with a four-piece body kit. A new interior package debuts, featuring white-and-black seating surfaces, door trim inserts, steering wheel and interior components. It also comes with a newly developed side graphic – an evolution of the tattoo graphic that is currently available.

2011 Ford Fiesta by Universal Technical Institute

This unique Fiesta from Universal Technical Institute offers a custom DuPont paint job and an Air Lift full digital suspension. A custom roll cage and Status racing seats make it track-ready, while Baer brakes and 18-inch wheels and tires provide upgraded performance.

2011 Ford Fiesta by 3dCarbon

3dCarbon's Euro Series Fiesta makes a bold statement with race-inspired styling, which includes 3dCarbon racing stripes, window films and rear roof spoiler. A four-piece body kit consists of an aggressively sculpted front air dam, aerodynamic side skirts and a rear lower skirt accented with black trim.

2011 Ford Fiesta by L&G Enterprises

L&G Enterprises has created the digital Fiesta, which shows off circuit board-inspired graphics on the exterior. Complete with a lowered and more aggressive stance, the Fiesta also has a new exhaust and air intake. Inside are carbon fiber accents, highlighting a sleek black interior with integrated iPad command center.

2011 Ford Fiesta by H&R Springs

This Fiesta by H&R Springs makes a style statement and demonstrates the versatility of Fiesta with several interior and exterior modifications. A color-matched body kit and large rear wing, along with European hood vents offer style and functional benefits. A graphics wrap around the car shows off a high-tech look, playing on the nature of Fiesta.

2011 Ford Fiesta by Steeda Autosports

Steeda Autosports is putting a Fiesta on display that has serious handling and performance upgrades for enthusiasts. A short-throw shifter and cold air intake developed by Steeda up the performance level. Additionally, tuned front and rear lowering sport springs, retuned dampers, antiroll bars and a front strut tower brace provide what enthusiasts are looking for in a high-performance car.

2011 Ford Fiesta by FSWerks

FSWerks is showing its appreciation for the all-new Fiesta with a complete line of high-performance parts. Features on the SEMA vehicle include FSWerks-developed cool flow air intake system and race exhaust, along with stress bars. Other modifications include a body kit, Continental ExtremeContact™ DW tires and Aristo Noble two-piece wheels.

SEMA: Hyundai Teases Tricked Out 2011 Sonata Turbo, Says it's Inspired by Ferrari, Mercedes and Porsche

Hoping to build some hype around the new 2011 Sonata 2.0-liter Turbo before it arrives in showrooms later this year, Hyundai has teamed up with RIDES and 0-60 magazines to trick out the 274-horsepower-strong saloon for the SEMA show, which will take place in Las Vegas this November.

The South Korean firm has no problem admitting that the car's tune-up is inspired by Ferrari, Mercedes and Porsche models.

In particular, Hyundai says the SEMA Show Sonata's exterior modifications will be "modest and tasteful, using influences from the four-door Brabus Mercedes CLS Rocket sport coupe", adding that the interior design has been inspired by the Ferrari F430 "with strategically placed stitched leather throughout and carbon fiber trim accents." No word where Porsche fits in the tune.

Other upgrades will include 20-inch concave monobloc wheels, a matte pearl white paint and a slew of carbon fiber components including the roof, grill, interior trim, side mirrors and rear diffuser, plus turbo and intake enhancements, and a quad tip dual exhaust.

Expect more teaser shots to be released within the next few weeks.