With the help of BorgWarner, the SEMA show got a taste of the IZOD IndyCar Series and the Indianapolis 500.

Three-time Indianapolis 500 winner Dario Franchitti joined the famed Borg-Warner Trophy at BorgWarner's display at the Las Vegas specialty trade show, an annual mecca for car enthusiasts.

"What a teriffic turnout at SEMA and the Borg Warner stage," Franchitti said. "It was a privilege to be at the event with the Borg-Warner Trophy - I always enjoy seeing the trophy and spending time with the trophy - even away  from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

"The fans were very enthusiastic and I really enjoyed the time that I got to spend with them, talking and signing autographs. I'll tell you what, the fans broke out some amazing photos for me to sign today, both old and new.  Borg Warner made some neat t-shirts to hand out - a fun, neat day."

Franchitti's Indianapolis 500-winning car was part of Honda's display, while Graham Rahal and his father Bobby were also there to make appearances. Joining up with Franchitti was racing legend Parnelli Jones, who attends the SEMA show every year.

"It was great to see my friend Parnelli, he is a fun guy to hang out with, really fun," Franchitti said. "It is hard to believe but at next year's 500 it will be the 50th anniversary of his win in 1963. He's in amazing shape. It's unbelievable how good he looks - rock solid.  It is always fun to see the fan reaction to Parnelli - they still idolize him - he's a hero!

Added Jones: "It was good to see my pal Dario - he won an amazing Indianapolis 500 last year and the fans at Borg Warner were lined up today to see him and get his autograph.  I am so proud of Dario - he has done so much for IndyCar and the Indianapolis 500.  He'll be going for number four this year at Indy to try to join a very special club with A.J. (Foyt), Al (Unser) and Rick (Mears). I truly wish him the very, very best."