SEMA going green, pumping green into Vegas economy

Maria Silva reporting

From pro bull riders to auto enthusiasts, several big events in town this week are expected to give a much needed boost to our economy.

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), despite a drop in attendance, is still going strong.

The SEMA show is referred to as the fashion week of the automotive industry and looking around it's easy to see why.

"All these manufacturers are making wonderful products for people who love to modify, customize, personalize cars and trucks," said SEMA president and CEO Chris Kersting.

More than 1,700 exhibitors are showcasing their products.

"Against this kind of climate you'd think not so many people are launching new businesses but we have well over 200 new companies represented among this group," continued Kersting. "That's really encouraging, too."

For the second year in a row, the SEMA show is going green. New hybrids, such as one with an electric motor fitted between the engine and gear box, are on display.

About 100,000 people from 100 countries are attending the show.

The LVCVA estimates the SEMA show will pump about $150 million into our local economy. The show runs until Friday and is not open to the public. There are plans for it to come back next year.

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