The hottest trends in virtual reality (VR) video and augmented reality (AR) video will take center stage at the 2016 SEMA Show, where showgoers can view a series of automotive-themed experiential demonstrations and learn how the technology can be applied to all areas of automotive aftermarket product sales, marketing and development. Featuring live VR broadcasting, 360-degree video and fully immersive VR and AR experiences, the SEMA VR Experience will be located in SEMA Central, found in the Grand Lobby of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

One of the highlights of the SEMA VR Experience is a 360-degree video presentation of the Diamond Bar, California-based SEMA Garage, including a tour of the installation center, emissions lab, photo studio, 3-D scanner, 3-D printer and more. The complete SEMA VR Experience will include:

• Live 360-degree Video Broadcast Demonstration: With special cameras placed around the SEMA Show, see how 360-degree video can enhance live social media event broadcasts.
• SEMA Garage 360-degree Video Tour: Join Overhaulin’s “AJ” as she virtually transports you to a complete tour of the 15,000-square-foot SEMA Garage facility.
• BFGoodrich Are You Driver Enough VR Experience: Immerse yourself in a tire-test driving experience with virtual instructors by your side.
• BFGoodrich Baja 1000 VR Experience: Sit in the cockpit of an 850 Horsepower Trophy Truck with Baja 1000 champion Rob MacCachren.
• Optima Batteries Power of Legends VR Experience: Sit in the middle of the action with a series of Optima Batteries ProPower Ambassadors from the worlds of professional road racing, off-road racing, water skiing and bass fishing.
• Augmented Reality Parts Catalog Demonstration: Using sophisticated viewing technology, see how a parts catalog can come to life with 3-D holograms of parts literally floating off the catalog pages.
• Augmented Reality Car Customization Demonstration: Using new AR technology, see a full-size sports car come to life before your eyes, and have the opportunity to select body color, racing stripes, wheels/tires and other modifications in virtual reality.

“The SEMA Garage 360-degree video tour is a great reason in and of itself to check out all of the cutting-edge demonstrations at the SEMA VR Experience,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA VP of events. “The added bonus is that SEMA Showgoers will be able to experience how virtual reality and augmented reality work, and learn how these new experiential video technologies can benefit their bottom line.”

VR and related technology such as augmented reality, which powers games like Pokemon Go, are quickly being used as sales tools and influencing customer behavior. Businesses are able to use VR to tell stories and create deep, meaningful experiences. Showgoers can experience this amazing new video technology by visiting the SEMA VR Experience, located at SEMA Central during the SEMA Show, Nov. 1-4, in Las Vegas.