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SEMA Show 2005: Aftermarket Mecca Kimatni D. Rawlins, 11.05.05 It’s a custom car frenzy in Vegas every year during the big SEMA aftermarket show. Imagine 2,000 tailored vehicles, 100,000 plus attendees, and over one million square feet of show space. From customization shops, to wheel companies to media moguls, SEMA is a microcosm of the wilder antics of the auto industry. Like 30” rims and diamond studded wheels. And you thought the only thing hot in Vegas was the desert. The four-day exhibition was more of a Caribbean carnival in February than a normal car show. No matter what part of the island you went to there was a parade. Core exhibits consisted of Mobile Electronics, Wheels, Gaming and General Car Care. The manufacturers were up in the mix as well. Honda was the title sponsor -- showing off their new Civic; Ford added some tunes with DJ Funk Master Flex and his version of a custom Fusion; GM won accolades for the Chevy HHR for being the most accessory friendly SUV, while the Dodge Ram Mega Cab and Charger each won a design award for their perspective categories. Automotive Rhythms (AR) was on hand with our 2005 VW Phaeton “Signature Series” luxury sedan. It is jazzed up with a Davin wheel and Michelin tire package, E&G Classics custom mesh grille, JL Audio subs and amps, and Audiobahn DVD screens. Actually, our Phaeton was only one of two at the show, but VW had another major presence with their tricked out Jettas. We would also like to recognize Rennen International, Big Boys Toys of Maryland, and Akademiks for making the team look good. Some things that made you think twice included Struts’ $7,800 grilles, Big Tigger promoting BT wheels, Slim Thug trying to shadow his oversized frame in the DUB booth, an art deco Range by Troy Lee, Flex’s love for the Ford fleet, and thinly dressed models who knew nothing about car culture. Want more? Check the photos! AR's VW Phaeton on Davins & Michelins AR, Davin Wheels' Darious, producer Mannie Fresh & R. Payton of On Wheels Inc. AR Team members K. Rawlins & G.Joe with Funk Master Flex VW Sponsors Team AR with Strut Team AR with custom VW Phaeton G.Joe & the Range on HREs Funk Master Flex's Ford Fusion Team AR with Big Tigger & his BT Wheels Line VW Jetta Bentley Flying Spur