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The MOORE Expo: A Showcase of Adventure in Springfield

Each year in April, the heart of Springfield, Missouri, resonates with the spirit of outdoor adventure at the MOORE Expo. Hosted at the bustling Ozark Empire fairgrounds, this event has quickly become a much-anticipated early spring gathering for outdoor enthusiasts, off-road aficionados, and families looking to explore the latest in outdoor recreation.

MOORE, which stands for Mid-America Overland and Off-Road Expo, offers attendees a chance to dive deep into the world of overlanding, a form of self-reliant adventure travel to remote destinations. With overlanding's rise in popularity over recent years, this expo provides an unmatched platform for enthusiasts to connect, learn, and discover.

Visitors to the expo are treated to a visual feast of customized vehicles, from rugged trucks outfitted for treacherous terrains to sleek SUVs designed for weekend getaways. Numerous vendors showcase the latest gear, equipment, and technologies tailored for overland trips. This includes rooftop tents, solar setups, and innovative camping tools, ensuring attendees leave with ideas (and perhaps a wishlist) or even better, a lot of gear purchased for their next adventure.

However, MOORE Expo isn't just about looking; it's about experiencing. Interactive displays allow attendees to get hands-on with equipment. Want to see how that new cooking gear works? There's likely a demonstration. Curious about a vehicle's off-road capability? Experts are on hand to walk you through the features. For newcomers to the world of overlanding, workshops and seminars provide invaluable insights into planning trips, vehicle modifications, and outdoor survival skills.

But it's not all business. The event also embraces the communal spirit of the overlanding community. Evenings at the expo are a time for storytelling, music, and sharing experiences around campfires. It's a reminder that, while the gear is great, it's the shared passion for adventure that truly binds this community together.

In addition to the main exhibits, the expo features entertainment zones for kids, ensuring the entire family has a memorable time. The Recovery Room Lounge, hosted by the best overlanding shop in the area “Overland Addict”. Local food vendors also offer a taste of Springfield, making it a treat for both local residents and out-of-town visitors.

The MOORE Expo in Springfield isn't just another event; it's a celebration of the spirit of adventure. Whether you're a seasoned overlander or just curious about what the buzz is all about, the fairgrounds in April are the place to be. Mark your calendars, pack your enthusiasm, and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery.

The Rise of Overlanding at the SEMA Show

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a leading automotive specialty products trade event in the world. Gathering manufacturers, media, buyers, and enthusiasts, the show provides a unique platform to showcase the latest trends, innovations, and products in the automotive aftermarket industry.

In recent years, one trend has noticeably gained traction at the SEMA Show: overlanding. Once a niche sector, overlanding – the self-reliant adventure travel to remote destinations where the journey is as important as the destination – has seen a significant surge in popularity, and its presence at SEMA reflects this growth.

Overlanding's Steady Growth at SEMA

1. Diverse Product Showcases: The number of exhibitors offering overlanding-specific equipment has expanded. From rooftop tents, portable refrigerators, and camp kitchens to advanced suspension systems and off-road lighting, the variety and sophistication of products available for overlanding enthusiasts have dramatically increased.

2. Dedicated Spaces: Recognizing the rise of the overlanding movement, SEMA has started dedicating specific areas and zones for overlanding products and vehicles. These areas allow attendees to experience a concentrated look at the latest in the overlanding world.

3. Overlanding Vehicles: Vehicle manufacturers and custom builders bring rigs specifically outfitted for overlanding. These range from the latest models with manufacturer-approved accessories to fully custom builds that redefine the concept of an adventure-ready vehicle.

4. Educational Seminars: With the growth of overlanding, there's an increasing demand for knowledge. SEMA has responded by offering seminars and workshops centered around overlanding. Topics often cover travel logistics, equipment essentials, and safety considerations, among others.

5. Networking Opportunities: Given its rising popularity, overlanding has attracted new entrants – both companies and enthusiasts. The SEMA Show serves as a melting pot, enabling seasoned overlanders to exchange ideas with newcomers and fostering community growth.

Why the Surge in Overlanding?

Several factors contribute to the burgeoning interest in overlanding:

- Quest for Adventure: Modern life often feels disconnected from nature. Overlanding offers an escape, a chance to explore untouched landscapes, and a sense of adventure.

- Community Building: The overlanding community is known for its camaraderie and shared ethos of exploration and self-reliance. Events, forums, and social media groups further this sense of belonging.

- Technological Advancements: Improved equipment, vehicles, and technology make overlanding more accessible and safer than ever. Innovations presented at shows like SEMA make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

In conclusion, as the overlanding movement continues its upward trajectory, its prominence at events like the SEMA Show is undeniable. With the automotive aftermarket industry keenly observing and participating in its growth, overlanding is not just a trend but an evolving culture of adventure and exploration.

Toyota Brings "Track or Trail, Your Thrill Awaits" to SEMA 2023

Toyota is back at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas with a larger-than-ever presence and a new theme: "Track or Trail, Your Thrill Awaits." The display features a wide range of vehicles, from custom builds to production models, all showcasing Toyota's commitment to performance and adventure.

One of the highlights of the Toyota display is the four-car Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) exhibit. This includes the GR86, GR Supra, GR Corolla, and GR Yaris, all of which are designed for on-track excitement. The display also features the GR Cup Series GR86 race car, giving fans a glimpse into Toyota's racing heritage.

In addition to the GR vehicles, Toyota is also showcasing a variety of off-road builds at SEMA 2023. The all-new Tacoma and Land Cruiser are both on display, as well as a number of custom-built trucks and SUVs. These vehicles are sure to appeal to anyone who loves exploring the great outdoors.

Of course, Toyota is also bringing a number of its production models to SEMA 2023. The Camry, Corolla, RAV4, and Highlander are all on display, along with a variety of other popular vehicles. Toyota is also showcasing its new Associated Accessories Program (AAP) products, which offer a wide range of options for customizing Toyota vehicles.

No matter what your interests are, there's something for everyone at Toyota's SEMA 2023 display. So whether you're a track enthusiast, an off-road adventurer, or simply looking for a way to personalize your Toyota vehicle, be sure to check out the Toyota booth.

Here are a few of the specific Toyota vehicles that are being showcased at SEMA 2023:

• Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) 86: A lightweight, rear-wheel drive sports car with a powerful boxer engine.

• Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) Supra: A fifth-generation Supra that's been developed for on-track performance.

• Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) Corolla: A hot hatch version of the Corolla with a turbocharged engine and upgraded suspension.

• Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) Yaris: A subcompact hatchback with a powerful turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive.

• Toyota Tacoma: A mid-size pickup truck that's known for its off-road capability.

• Toyota Land Cruiser: A full-size SUV that's known for its luxurious interior and off-road capability.

Toyota is also showcasing a variety of other vehicles at SEMA 2023, including the Camry, Corolla, RAV4, Highlander, and Sienna. Want to read more about the other vehicles that are being showcased? Click Here

MORE…SEMA 2023 Highlights for Overlanding and Off-Road Products

The 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas is the largest automotive specialty products trade show in the world, and it's a great place to see the latest and greatest overlanding and off-road products. Here are a few of the highlights:

Overland Experience

SEMA Overland Experience 2023

The SEMA Overland Experience is a dedicated display of overlanding vehicles and products. This year, the Overland Experience is moving to a new, larger location in the Diamond Lot. Attendees will be able to see dozens of customized vehicles, from pop-top-equipped trucks to sprinter vans to specialty trailers. There will also be a variety of exhibitors showcasing the latest overlanding gear, such as refrigerators, storage racks and units, makeshift kitchens, and solar chargers.

Toyota Tacoma Overlanding Concept

Toyota Tacoma Overlanding Concept SEMA 2023

Toyota is showcasing a new Tacoma Overlanding Concept at SEMA 2023. The concept features a variety of overlanding upgrades, including a rooftop tent, a rear bumper with a swing-out tire carrier and jerry can holders, and a custom bed rack with a solar panel and awning.

Jeep Wrangler Magneto 2.0 Concept

Jeep Wrangler Magneto 2.0 Concept SEMA 2023

Jeep is showcasing a new Wrangler Magneto 2.0 Concept at SEMA 2023. The concept features a number of upgrades over the original Magneto concept, including a more powerful electric motor, a larger battery pack, and a longer range. The Magneto 2.0 also has a number of off-road upgrades, such as a lift kit, larger tires, and a custom front bumper with a winch.

Ford Bronco Everglades

Ford is showcasing the new Bronco Everglades at SEMA 2023. The Everglades is a special edition Bronco that's designed for off-roading in all conditions. It features a number of upgrades, such as a snorkel, a winch, and a factory-installed lift kit.

Other notable highlights:

• GoFastCampers SuperLite 220XL: A lightweight overland trailer with a built-in kitchen and sleeping accommodations.

• GFC Platform Camper: A modular camper system that can be mounted on a variety of vehicles.

• Icon Vehicle Dynamics Toyota Tacoma Stage 8: A fully customized Tacoma with a long-travel suspension, custom bumpers, and a variety of other off-road upgrades.

• Warn Industries Zeon 10-S Winch: A powerful and lightweight electric winch.

• ARB Air Locker: A locking differential that can improve traction in off-road conditions.

• Maxxis Razr MT2 Tires: A mud-terrain tire that's designed for off-road performance.

• Baja Designs Fog X LED Lights: A bright and durable LED fog light.

These are just a few of the many overlanding and off-road products that will be on display at the 2023 SEMA Show. If you're interested in overlanding or off-roading, this is a must-attend event.

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