Truck accessory

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A Truck Accessory is an aftermarket part that is used to enhance the style or function of the original OEM pickup truck. Truck accessories are differentiated from other parts, typically referred to as "hard parts" or "cores" that include distributors, water pumps, radiators and the like. Some of the more popular accessories for trucks include tubular products such as nerf bars and grill guards, tonneau covers and truck tool boxes.

[edit] History

Truck accessories did not really take off until the 1990's. Up until that time, OEM manufacturers including Chevrolet, Ford and Dodge considered trucks as work-only vehicles and did little to accommodate accessories. With the dawn of the extended cab, trucks began taking on a more urban appeal and were being purchased for their style as well as their utility. This new audience of truck owner began to demand more than a simple tool box to adorn their trucks. They began developing an appetite for accessories that would complement the look of their truck and manufacturers began to accommodate their desires with products like billet grills, chrome fender trim, nerf bars and hood deflectors. In addition, truck manufacturers began collaborating with and designing their vehicles to easily accommodate these accessories with bolt-on ease.

[edit] Manufacturers and Trade associations

The primary trade association that represents truck accessory manufacturers is SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association).

Leading manufacturers of truck accessories include: Better Built, Westin Automotive, Warn, Lund,T-Rex Billet and Dee Zee.

See also: Trunk (automobile)