Keystone Automotive Plans Custom Build Reveal at SEMA Show

Keystone Automotive Operations will debut the latest custom vehicle from builder Andy Leach and his Bennington, Nebraska-based Cal Auto Creations at the 2023 SEMA Show, the parts distributor announced.

The vehicle, a 1968 Jeep Super Wagoneer, will be unveiled in the Keystone Automotive Operations Booth No. 21249 on Oct.31 at 11:00 a.m., the company said.

Since winning the Don Ridler Memorial Award in 2013, Leach has received multiple honors including the 2023 Al Slonaker Memorial Award in addition to the Legends Cup, Triple Crown Award, and the Goodguys Custom Rod of the Year.

“We set out to build something different and special with this one and it really feels like everything came together nicely,” said Leach. “From the body work, paint, motor and interior to a suspension and chassis built to handle anything on or off road, it takes an incredible team of talented craftsmen working together to bring something like this to life. We are looking forward to revealing it and sharing it all week long alongside Keystone in Las Vegas at the SEMA Show.”

At the heart of the Travis Lienemann owned Super Wagoneer is a Chevrolet LT4 crate engine backed by a Bowler Performance Transmission 4L80E with an Atlas transfer case, all riding on a Custom Roadster Shop RS4R Chassis in addition to a variety of brands distributed by Keystone Automotive, the distributor said.

“Showcasing the vehicles, parts and accessories that drive the industry, the SEMA Show represents the pinnacle of the automotive aftermarket,” said Keystone Automotive Operations President, Bill Rogers. “As a premier, award-winning builder, Andy Leach and his team have captured the creative spirit and imagination of automotive design and execution with their amazing vehicles. We are thrilled to be featuring their latest creation as a cornerstone of our display at this year’s show.”

In addition to their booth where Keystone representatives will be sharing a variety of digital and ecommerce solutions, service enhancements and marketing opportunities with SEMA attendees, their team will be found throughout the show researching the new and trendsetting products that may one day be included in the company’s extensive line card.

“Our active participation in the SEMA Show is an important aspect of our continuing commitment to the aftermarket industry,” added Keystone Senior Director of Marketing, Andy Morgan. “Over the course of the week, we will share our new and exciting innovations that have been developed to enhance our customers’ businesses while spending meaningful time networking with the suppliers and manufacturers whose products we sell and deliver every day. In addition to the vast array of vehicles and products, SEMA provides us a tremendous opportunity to create and build the connections that are vital to the collective success of the industry.”

By A.J. Hecht

A.J. Hecht is the managing editor of THE SHOP and host of the In Gear with THE SHOP podcast. Have an idea, a tip, or a question you’d like to see answered? Contact A.J. at ahecht@cahabamedia.com.