The auto industry’s most cutting-edge aftermarket innovations shine each November in Las Vegas at the SEMA Show. SEMA—the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association—supports companies producing products that enhance vehicles’ looks, performance, and utility. The show is invite-only, and a small Utah company—Cache Inc—is about to make its second appearance.
Founded by brothers Tyler (CEO) and Dillon Green, Cache has recreated the humble tailgate pad. Dillon first sketched the idea for a locking design at age 16. Later, with Tyler’s marketing background and their dad’s input, the concept grew into a pad system that’s probably the best in the industry.
Cache Inc.
After successful 2018 Kickstarter crowdfunding and sales that tripled annually, Cache took a leap in 2024. They secured a contract to build a proprietary pad for a major EV automaker and scaled up manufacturing.
That same year, Cache applied to exhibit at the SEMA Show. Not only were they invited, but they won a GearJunkie Best-in-Show award for their Basecamp 3.0 tailgate pad (see https://gearjunkie.com/motors/best-in-show-top-products-sema-2024). The system is so impressive that one major competitor acknowledged that they didn’t even bother displaying their own line of pads. They just weren’t in the same class as the Basecamp 3.0.
The Products
So is the Utah-based, in-house-designed Cache Basecamp 3.0 modular pad worth some extra coin? Well, it is the world’s only patented locking, modular system. It has a cable-reinforced center strap secured by a tough combo-lock carabiner. MOLLE webbing on the back allows quick attachment of lounge seats, backpack-style coolers, first-aid kits, cargo totes, or even a skid plate for heavy e-bikes. Custom team or business logos can also be added.
Built from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) the cover has flexibility and strength and shrugs off heat, abrasion, and many chemicals. Where competing products have up to 2-year warranty periods and often degrade with prolonged exposure, the Basecamp 3.0 has a 5-year warranty and looks great year after year. Dillon’s own pad has been riding weather-beaten on his truck for three years and still looks great and functions perfectly.
SEMA 2025
Their SEMA debut landed Cache a deal with Chrysler (Stellantis) to add its pads to the MOPAR accessories catalog. With an interactive, video-driven display planned for 2025, Cache is aiming even higher. From teenage idea to industry standout, the Green brothers’ Utah startup shows that innovation can ride on the back of a truck.
© 2025, R Bairett
