OVS at SEMA 2025 — A show-stopping lineup that pushes overlanding forward
SEMA 2025 was the perfect stage for Overland Vehicle Systems (OVS) to show how the brand is evolving from a one-stop overland shop into a full-spectrum platform for modern adventure vehicles. This year OVS brought product depth, strategic expansion, and a clear focus on modular, vehicle-specific solutions — from heavy-duty recovery gear to integrated camper-shell + RTT systems that let you build your rig the way you want it.
Pivot Hitch Tire Carrier — rugged, smart spare storage
One of the most-talked-about pieces on the OVS booth floor was the new Pivot Off-Road Hitch Tire Carrier: a heavy-duty swing-away hitch mount with a 3-stage pivot, anti-wobble stabilizer, and universal 5- or 6-lug fitment. It’s built to carry large off-road tires (and accessory storage) while keeping access to the tailgate — a practical swap for anyone running larger-than-stock rubber who still wants day-to-day convenience. The carrier was featured as a SEMA 2025 preview item with ETAs listed on OVS product pages.
Ruff Rax acquisition — expanding rack capability and vehicle coverage
A headline that landed at the show (and in OVS’s press materials) was the acquisition of Overland Ruff Rax. This strategic move brings a U.S.-based roof- and bed-rack maker into the OVS family, immediately expanding OVS’s in-house rack design, manufacturing, and vehicle-specific fitment capabilities. Expect faster rollouts of premium racks, more vehicle-specific systems (including EVs), and a broader accessories ecosystem mounted to those racks.
Rivian & roof-rack ventures — EV-aware solutions
OVS signaled a clear interest in serving the EV crowd: Ruff Rax product lines already include dedicated Rivian roof-rack systems and panels, and OVS is positioning itself to support electric trucks with rack and accessory setups that respect EV packaging and aerodynamics. That means roof platforms, light-friendly cutouts, and modular panel options that work for Rivian owners who want to overland without compromising vehicle-specific integrations.
Excursion Camper Shell Roof Top Tent Combo — a true build-as-you-go system
One of the most forward-thinking products OVS highlighted at SEMA 2025 was the Excursion Camper Shell Roof Top Tent Combo — a modular system engineered for customers who want to build their rig in stages instead of buying a full setup all at once.
The concept is simple, but game-changing:
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Start with the Expedition Truck Cap
This heavy-duty, expedition-grade camper shell delivers secure storage, accessory mounting, and structural support for future upgrades. -
Add the Excursion Spacer
Designed specifically for the system, the spacer raises the tent platform to create proper alignment with the cab of the truck. This ensures stability, clean aerodynamics, and comfortable sleeping geometry. -
Finish with the Roof Top Tent Over the Cab
The RTT extends forward over the cab, maximizing interior space and eliminating wasted roof real estate. -
Integrated Panels for Bed-to-Tent Entry
Unique to the Excursion system, interior access panels allow you to move directly from the truck bed into the rooftop tent — a feature built for cold-weather camping, security, and convenience.
The result is a convertible overlanding platform that adapts as your needs grow. Start simple, add upgrades over time, and end up with a fully integrated expedition-ready camper without replacing your gear or starting over.
Recovery and utility gear — practical pieces that matter on the trail
SEMA wasn’t only about big-ticket modular systems. OVS displayed several essential recovery and utility items that speak to real-world overlanding needs:
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Off-Road Bottle Jack (6-ton kit) — a compact, durable bottle jack packaged with organized storage and recovery-grade durability. Great as a lightweight, reliable lift option for off-pavement repairs.
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Multi-Purpose Fluid Containers — UV-resistant, mountable tanks in 1–3 gallon sizes for extra fuel, water, or other fluids when you’re off-grid. Designed to mount cleanly to racks or inside vehicle cargo systems.
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Rapid Tire Deflators & Digital Deflator kits — efficient, accurate tire-deflation tools and compact storage cases that make airing down quick and repeatable before heading onto sand, mud, or hardpack. These little items save time and keep your build organized.
Why SEMA 2025 matters for OVS customers
Taken together, the SEMA reveal shows OVS maturing into a brand that addresses both macro trends (EV compatibility, modular platform thinking via acquisitions like Ruff Rax) and the micro needs of overlanders (better spare tire mounts, dependable jacks, smart fluid storage, and precise tire deflation). Whether you’re prepping a one-vehicle build or scaling a fleet spec, OVS’s direction promises more vehicle-specific choices and an ecosystem that works together — racks that accept RTTs and accessories, carriers that don’t block functionality, and recovery gear designed to fit your rig.
Final notes & where to see them
If you missed the SEMA booth, OVS has product pages and a blog post announcing the Ruff Rax acquisition and many of the new SKUs showcased at the show — a good place to start for specs, fitment info, and ETA details. For hands-on buyers, look for dealer partners and aftermarket retailers beginning to list preorders and fitment options as items move toward Q4/Q1 availability.