By Ashley Reyes
Calling all SEMA Show builders and engineers: Does your vehicle build demonstrate engineering excellence?
SEMA is accepting applications for the 2026 SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award here.
What is the Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award?
Now in its fourth year, the award recognizes a feature vehicle displayed at the SEMA Show that demonstrates exceptional engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or in a specific aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond physical appearance. The award also aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and spotlighting on the connection between a vehicle's design and engineering.
Who qualifies to enter?
Builders exhibiting a feature vehicle at the SEMA Show are eligible to apply. Entries should demonstrate technical excellence, innovative design and creative problem-solving that advances vehicle performance, functionality, safety or overall capability.
What are the benefits?
As a SEMA Industry Award recognizing standout engineering achievement, the award offers builders an opportunity to gain industry-wide recognition at the SEMA Show.
The winner will be announced at SEMA Central on Thursday, November 5, and will receive a commemorative trophy. In addition, the winning vehicle and team will be featured in SEMA Show communications, providing valuable exposure to industry professionals and the media.
What is required to enter?
To be considered for the award, builders must upload a photo, video and description of the engineering content included in the build, along with the location of the displayed vehicle at the SEMA Show. Entries are being accepted until Wednesday, October 28, at this link.
