By SEMA News Editors

 

Hemmings Launches Giveaway for One-of-One Trail 70 Minibike

 

Hemmings, the online collector car marketplace, is launching the "Hemmings Stay Gold Sweepstakes," a giveaway offering one winner the opportunity to own a custom-built Trail 70 Minibike.

 

Built from the ground up in the Hemmings Garage in Bennington, Vermont, the minibike, dubbed "Stay Gold," is the product of countless hours from Shop Manager Junior Nevison, Technical Editor Terry McGean and the Hemmings Garage team.

 

The project began after the crew restored a family heirloom '70 Honda CT-70 and rediscovered the charm of the minibike that introduced generations of enthusiasts to riding and wrenching. Inspired by the ability to source nearly every component new, the team set out to create something that honored the CT-70's legacy while pushing its design in a new direction.

 

Using all-new parts from Bart Moto Co., the Hemmings crew designed and assembled the custom machine before partnering with renowned painter Travis "Tuki" Hess, whose signature metal flake artwork gave Stay Gold its unmistakable personality. From concept to completion, Stay Gold showcases the dedication, craftsmanship and countless hours invested by the Hemmings Garage team, as told in a video on Hemmings' YouTube Channel.

 

"Stay Gold represents everything we love about this hobby," said Jonathan Shaw, president of Hemmings. "It's creative, personal and deeply rooted in the memories that first sparked our passion for cars and motorcycles. Projects like this remind us that collector culture today should preserve the past and balance that with inspiring the next generation of enthusiasts to build, create and make memories of their own." 

 

To bring the vision to life, Hemmings partnered with Hess of Kolor by Tuki Kustom Auto Paint. Widely respected throughout the drag racing and custom automotive communities, Hess is known for his intricate metal flake paintwork and period-inspired designs, Hemmings said. For Stay Gold, he applied his signature artistry across the frame, fenders and headlamp nacelle, creating a finish that captures the bold spirit of '70s custom culture while remaining unmistakably original.

 

Every component was selected to complement the custom paint scheme and create a machine that feels equally at home on display or on the road. 

 

Features include:

• 125cc engine with high-lift cam and manual four-speed gearbox
• Nibbi 24mm carburetor
• Wide-body frame with 5.5L fuel tank
• Adjustable inverted aluminum front forks
• One-piece aluminum 12-in. wheels
• Coker Classic whitewall tires
• Chrome drag-pipe exhaust
• Hydraulic front disc brake and rear drum brake
• Stretched aluminum swingarm
• Digital speedometer cluster
• Custom gold metal flake diamond-stitched seat hand-sewn by Hemmings Shop Manager Junior Nevison

 

The "Stay Gold Sweepstakes" is now open and runs through August 20. One winner will take home the custom-built machine.

 

For more information and complete rules, visit hmn.com/staygold.

 

Image courtesy of Hemmings

 

Toy Story 5-Inspired Porsche 911 Trio Leads to $3 Million Donation

 

Three one-of-one Porsche 911 models customized to embody the spirit of Toy Story characters Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Jessie debuted at the red-carpet World Premiere of Toy Story 5.

 

Now, those same vehicles are generating a real-world story of giving. The intended buyer has committed to donate $3 million, with $1 million designated for each of the following non-profit organizations: Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, the American Red Cross and Starlight Children's Foundation. The Porsche collector and philanthropist would like to remain anonymous.

 

"When we first learned about the project--the incredible cars and the work these charities do for children and families--we knew it was a natural fit," says the anonymous buyer. "Our passion for unique Porsches and giving back runs as deep as our love of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and the rest of the Toy Story 5 characters. Seeing the teams at Porsche and Pixar come together with their creativity and resources to bless and inspire others is something that is easy to get behind, matching our resources with theirs to expand the potential impact. It truly hits on all cylinders for us, and we hope it inspires others to do the same."

 

The vehicles were extensively customized by Porsche's Sonderwunsch "special wishes" department in collaboration with Disney and Pixar.

 

"This collaboration was always about more than extraordinary cars, it was also about creating meaningful opportunities to give back to our communities," said Timo Resch, president and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. "We are incredibly grateful to the buyer for this generous $3 million donation, which will directly support organizations doing critical work every day. It's a powerful reminder of what can happen when passion and purpose come together."

 

The nonprofit partners highlighted how the funds will be used to advance their respective missions:

 

"We are incredibly grateful for partners like Porsche that provide us with the flexibility to support all areas of our mission," said Anne McKeough, chief development officer at the American Red Cross. "The willingness to contribute where the need is greatest--whether for disaster relief, lifesaving blood, support for the military community or other critical programs--ensures we can be there when help can't wait."

 

"At Starlight, our programs like Toy Deliveries and themed Hospital Gowns exist to bring moments of joy to children and families navigating challenging times," said Adam Garone, CEO, Starlight Children's Foundation. "Partnerships like this allow us to bring happiness and play to more kids across children's hospitals nationwide."

 

"Every positive mentoring relationship has the power to change the trajectory of a young person's life, building confidence and opening doors to new opportunities," said Artis Stevens, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. "This support helps us create even more of these transformative connections, building stronger, more hopeful communities and empowering young people to be the changemakers of today."

 

A 911 GT3 RS inspired by Buzz Lightyear features a striking white, green and purple color scheme, a prominent rear wing echoing his signature "wings" and custom "Lightyear" tires, complemented by a highly detailed, character-driven interior.

 

The 911 Targa 4 GTS channels Jessie's character with her name replacing the Targa designation on the roll bar, her signature catchphrase, "yeehaw," on the door sill guard, a newly developed pearl-effect white paint matching the pearl buttons on her shirt, and bold western-inspired accents with denim and cowhide interior elements.

 

Completing the trio, the 911 Carrera T, inspired by Woody, showcases a unique denim-like paint finish, mimicking the wear of his jeans, vintage-inspired leather and playful character details that reflect his iconic style.

 

The cars are currently touring the United States at events hosted by the nonprofit partners and are expected to be formally handed over to their new owner during Monterey Car Week in August.

 

For more information, visit porsche.com.

 

Tread Lightly! Reaches First Drive 35 Campaign Milestone

 

Tread Lightly! is celebrating a major milestone in its Drive 35 campaign after reaching the first goal of 1,000 Responsible Rider Masterclass course completions.

 

Originally launched to celebrate Tread Lightly!'s 35th anniversary, the Drive 35 campaign encourages riders and outdoor recreation enthusiasts to complete free online Responsible Rider Masterclass courses designed to educate users on how to minimize their impact and help protect trails, waterways and snow recreation areas for future generations.

 

The Drive 35 campaign is supported by BRP, a powersports manufacturer, through its Responsible Rider Program. For every Responsible Rider Masterclass completion, BRP has committed to donate $35 to Tread Lightly! to advance conservation and sustainable trail use across the country. With 1,000 courses completed, BRP is therefore contributing $35,000.

 

Following the achievement of this initial goal, Tread Lightly! is now encouraging riders to continue supporting the cause by completing an additional 1,000 courses for which BRP will continue to donate $35 per course to Tread Lightly!.

 

Tread Lightly! encourages riders, boaters and snow recreation enthusiasts to participate in the next phase of the campaign by completing one or more free courses at ResponsibleRider.com.

 

RealTruck, MasterCraft Partner to Celebrate America's 250 With Restoration and Custom Build Project

 

In celebration of America's 250th anniversary, RealTruck, the truck accessory brand, and MasterCraft Boat Company have announced a collaboration featuring a reimagined and customized Chevrolet Colorado paired with the restoration of MasterCraft's iconic 1975 "Stars & Stripes" ski boat.

 

The pairing will serve as the centerpiece of a charitable fundraising effort benefiting Building Homes for Heroes, a national nonprofit that builds and modifies homes and gifts them, mortgage-free for veterans and first responders.

 

Originally introduced in the '70s, the MasterCraft Stars & Stripes helped establish the company as a leader in the towboat industry and became synonymous with competitive water skiing. Featuring a patriotic red, white and blue design, the tournament ski boat helped define the standard for waterski performance during its era and remains one of the most sought-after MasterCraft classics among collectors and enthusiasts, according to the company.

 

The classic design of the Chevrolet Colorado bridges yesterday's boat and today's truck, connecting timeless character with modern American innovation. Inspired by the classic two-tone paint jobs of a '85 square-body Chevy truck, and building on the '75 MasterCraft Stars & Stripes boat theme, the distinctive color is a fusion of design and style that forms a striking combination on both land and water. From its Ohio-made RealTruck's A.R.E. Z2 Cap, to the America 250 flag prominently placed on the roof, every detail was chosen to celebrate American innovation and patriotism. The truck also features the RealTruck A.R.E. Rod Pods (pole holders), A.R.E. Ascend Roof Basket, Elevate Rack and Go Rhino Xplor Lighting, and a DECKED Storage System.

 

The truck-and-boat pairing will go on a roadshow and be unveiled at numerous high-profile events, including the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 2026.

 

For more information, visit realtruck.com.

 

 

Next-Generation Hyundai Elantra Prototype Spotted Testing in Europe

 

 

The next-generation Hyundai Elantra (codenamed CN8) has been caught testing in Europe's mountains. These images confirm that Hyundai is doubling down on its futuristic, coupe-inspired design language for the '26 Elantra. German registration plates fuel speculation that the new Elantra might finally make it to the European market.

 

The Elantra CN8's headlights reveal a dramatic evolution from the current model. The new setup features rectangular LED modules integrated within a wide, sculpted grille section reminiscent of the Hyundai N Vision 74 concept. A continuous LED daytime running light (DRL) strip runs horizontally across the front fascia, creating a sleek, high-tech look that stands out at night.

 

This lighting signature gives the Elantra a wider stance and a more aggressive road presence, signaling Hyundai's move toward a bolder design philosophy across its sedan lineup.

 

Moving to the rear, the taillight cluster is equally striking. The spy shots reveal a full-width LED bar stretching across the trunk, connecting both taillamps into a single, continuous light signature. The horizontal beam is flanked by sharp, triangular lighting elements that echo the N Vision 74's retro-futuristic aesthetic.

 

This setup, combined with muscular rear haunches and aggressive fender lines, gives the new Elantra a sportier, more premium visual character compared to its predecessor.

 

While many competitors are rapidly transitioning to fully electric powertrains, Hyundai appears committed to offering one more generation of the internal combustion-powered Elantra. Insiders report that delays in Hyundai's EV rollout have prompted the company to focus on a refreshed gasoline-powered lineup, with hybrid and LPG variants expected to complement the range.

 

Powertrain options are likely to include a 1.6L gasoline engine, an LPG variant (for select markets) and hybrid powertrains. This combination should deliver familiar reliability and efficiency while maintaining accessibility for mainstream buyers.

 

The coupe-inspired silhouette, bold character lines and low, wide stance draw direct inspiration from Hyundai's acclaimed N Vision 74 concept car. The new Elantra blends retro styling cues with modern aerodynamic proportions, creating a unique identity that bridges Hyundai's performance-oriented and mainstream design directions.

 

According to industry sources, the all-new Hyundai Elantra (CN8) is scheduled for a global debut in 2026.

 

Limited-Run Cupra Leon VZ TCR in the Works

 

 

Following the introduction of the Leon VZ, Cupra is now testing an even hotter version of its compact hatchback––the Leon VZ TCR––at Germany's Nürburgring. Only 499 units of this high-performance hatchback will be built beginning at the end of 2026. With 320 hp and 310 lb.-ft. of torque, it is the most powerful front-wheel-drive Leon ever built.

 

Power is sent to the front wheels through a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission, supplemented by an electronically controlled front-axle differential (VAQ) that improves traction. Acceleration from 0-62 mph takes 5.6 seconds, and top speed is unrestricted.

 

Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC) enables rapid responses, while configurable drive modes adjust the handling characteristics. Akebono brakes with six-piston calipers provide strong stopping power, while the steering delivers a progressive feel. Four copper exhaust tips produce the engine's characteristic sound.

 

The design is inspired by motorsports. The rear seats are removable, while a strut brace and integrated mesh enhance rigidity. Special alloy wheels and 9.6-in.-wide tires increase grip and stability. The front CupBucket seats feature four-point harnesses, and a serial number is engraved on the door. Aerodynamic elements such as front and rear splitters, side skirts, a diffuser, a roof spoiler and black-painted carbon-fiber mirror caps further distinguish the model.

 

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

By SEMA News Editors

 

Exhibiting at the 2026 SEMA Show? Your official handbook for exhibitor success is now available online at exhibitor.semashow.com.
 

The entire Exhibitor Service Manual is the official exhibitor's handbook for success, in addition to the relationships they form with their SEMA sales representative, the SEMA media team and the SEMA Show department.

 

Exhibiting at the 2026 SEMA Show--November 3-6, Las Vegas--puts brands in front of thousands of qualified domestic and international buyers and the most influential members of the media from every segment of the specialty-equipment industry. (Still need a booth?).

---

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com.

 

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.   

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Kyle Ebner, collision network manager at Ford Motor Company, as its newest allyship honoree.

 

Learn how Ebner supports women in the industry and promotes the ally mindset in the SEMA News interview below. 

 

SEMA News: What do you do to support the ally mentality and women's empowerment?

Kyle Ebner: I hired a woman automotive painter and supported my daughter in her interest in automotive and racing. I like to encourage more knowledge and a deeper dive into the automotive space by women who find the industry interesting. I enjoy watching not only men, but young women increase their knowledge in the space.

 

SN: Can you share your favorite experience being an ally?  

KE: When I managed my family's auto body shop, I placed a bet on a young woman painter with little experience. She was full of energy and eager to learn as she went. I liked the fact she had a different perspective on things and could pick out things that the rest of us missed. She was interested in other aspects of the business as well, so I taught her how to write estimates. This proved to be a valuable thing for the shop as other women who came into the shop looking for an estimate and didn't know much about vehicles felt more comfortable speaking to another woman.

 

It felt good to take this young woman under my wing and give her a chance. I was proud that we had the only woman painter in the area, it made our shop stand apart from the others. As SEMA is a community of people that know each other, so are the technicians in shops around our facility. I hope that perhaps our shop being one of the first to hire a woman in this field in that area led the way for more like her.

 

I am very excited that my daughter is so interested in the automotive industry without any prodding by me. I am a little surprised at how much she wants to try racing, and I want to give her the opportunity, but I am not so sure on where and how to start her. I want to figure this out for her. However, I was able to introduce her and her Girl Scout troop to a female drag race friend of mine, Amy Faulk. Amy was so kind to the girls; she took them around the pits, showed them the trailer, let them sit in her race car, and they got to watch her race. The young ladies were very impressed by Amy as she was a trailblazer in the industry.

 

SN: Why do you feel that being an ally is important? 

KE: I feel being an ally is important to get more women into the industry. The industry needs the perspective of women, and the industry simply cannot grow effectively without them.

                                         

SN: What have you found to be the most important/valuable part of being an ally?

KE: I think it is important and valuable to include women in the auto industry if we want to see it grow and succeed in the future. For me personally, it is rewarding to help women by showing them the ropes in any way possible, whether it be wrenching on a car, teaching my daughter to drive or some basics about how to manage a build for the SEMA Show. Being an ally is also valuable to me because I can gain new perspectives and help me to think of things that I may not have thought of before and it is also simply rewarding.

 

SN: How long have you been in the industry?

KE: Thirty-five years.

 

SN: What advice do you have for those that want to become an ally?

KE: What are you waiting for? Just do it! Start offering up your assistance and share your knowledge and experiences to get started. Encourage women to do things that they are not normally encouraged to do and to show them support.

 

SN: How does someone spread the ally mentality?

KE: By example, I feel if people see me doing it, they can too. We can also spread the mentality by just being there to help support the cause in general and show that women can be just as capable as men in the auto industry.

 

Fill out an SBN Ally Spotlight form to highlight how you or a colleague is being an ally to women in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on SBN's social media and in SEMA News.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

A SEMA-sponsored California bill to reform the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) Executive Order (EO) process for aftermarket emissions-related parts has cleared another legislative hurdle and now includes a long-demanded pathway for companies to bring their products to the California market faster.

 

SB 1069, authored by Sen. Tim Grayson (D-Concord), passed the Assembly Transportation Committee unanimously and now heads to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for consideration.

 

The bill has been significantly amended to establish a new conditional approval process for qualifying aftermarket parts.

 

• Under the amended bill, manufacturers that submit a complete EO application supported by emissions testing and technical documentation may receive conditional approval to sell, advertise and install qualifying products while CARB completes its review. Today, manufacturers often wait months or years for a final EO before they can legally bring a product to market in California.

 

The new approach allows companies to begin generating revenue while CARB's review is ongoing, helping manufacturers recover development and compliance costs sooner.

 

To qualify, manufacturers must submit a complete application supported by emissions testing and technical documentation and have a demonstrated track record of compliance through prior participation in CARB's EO program.

 

The bill also reinforces the value of the SEMA Garage and its SEMA Certified-Emissions program by creating a streamlined pathway for manufacturers that invest upfront in emissions compliance and comprehensive application packages.

 

Sign up for more advocacy updates at semahq.org.

 

For more information, contact Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director for state government affairs, at christianr@sema.org.

 

Lead image background courtesy of Shutterstock | Robert Schlie

 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

Responding to President Trump's announcement of a presidential memorandum on automotive policies, including freedom-to-fix protections for vehicle owners, Mike Spagnola, CEO of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), issued the following statement:

 

President Trump's presidential memorandum on Lowering the Cost of Living by Promoting the Freedom to Fix is more bold action in support of vehicle owners and automotive aftermarket industry businesses from across the nation, and an example of federal leadership on behalf of our nation's vibrant car culture. Specifically, Section 3 of today's memorandum acknowledges the need for certainty at the federal level for automotive aftermarket businesses who seek to certify the emissions compliance of their products. We look forward to further details from EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin as the agency finalizes its guidance on this memorandum.

 

BACKGROUND

SEMA, through its Garage program, is the automotive industry’s leader in understanding the impact of aftermarket products on vehicle emissions, along with emerging safety technology on modified vehicles.

 

For more information, visit sema.org.

 

Feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | Sean Pavone

 

Alternate feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | Artiom Photo
 

 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

Responding to President Trump's announcement of a presidential memorandum on automotive policies, including freedom-to-fix protections for vehicle owners, Mike Spagnola, CEO of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), issued the following statement:

 

President Trump's presidential memorandum on Lowering the Cost of Living by Promoting the Freedom to Fix is more bold action in support of vehicle owners and automotive aftermarket industry businesses from across the nation, and an example of federal leadership on behalf of our nation's vibrant car culture. Specifically, Section 3 of today's memorandum acknowledges the need for certainty at the federal level for automotive aftermarket businesses who seek to certify the emissions compliance of their products. We look forward to further details from EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin as the agency finalizes its guidance on this memorandum.

 

BACKGROUND

SEMA, through its Garage program, is the automotive industry’s leader in understanding the impact of aftermarket products on vehicle emissions, along with emerging safety technology on modified vehicles.

 

For more information, visit sema.org.

 

Feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | Sean Pavone

 

Alternate feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | Artiom Photo
 

 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

Responding to President Trump's announcement of a presidential memorandum on automotive policies, including freedom-to-fix protections for vehicle owners, Mike Spagnola, CEO of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), issued the following statement:

 

President Trump's presidential memorandum on Lowering the Cost of Living by Promoting the Freedom to Fix is more bold action in support of vehicle owners and automotive aftermarket industry businesses from across the nation, and an example of federal leadership on behalf of our nation's vibrant car culture. Specifically, Section 3 of today's memorandum acknowledges the need for certainty at the federal level for automotive aftermarket businesses who seek to certify the emissions compliance of their products. We look forward to further details from EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin as the agency finalizes its guidance on this memorandum.

 

BACKGROUND

SEMA, through its Garage program, is the automotive industry’s leader in understanding the impact of aftermarket products on vehicle emissions, along with emerging safety technology on modified vehicles.

 

For more information, visit sema.org.

 

Feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | Sean Pavone

 

Alternate feed image courtesy of Shutterstock | Artiom Photo
 

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

As part of its mission to serve, engage, and unite the truck and off-road industry, the SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is accepting applications for its TORA Feature Vehicle Showcase, taking place November 3-6 at the 2026 SEMA Show.

 

Open exclusively to TORA members, the Showcase gives builders the opportunity to feature their vehicle in a premier spot located on the outside walkway between North and West Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center––known as the TORA Feature Vehicle Trail––during SEMA Show week. The goal is to showcase the latest trends, products and vehicles driving today’s truck and off-road market while providing builders with a platform to promote their skills to a global audience.

 

What to expect:

• Placement along a high-traffic outside walkway connecting North and West Halls.
• Continuous foot traffic from qualified industry attendees and media during SEMA Show week.
• Inclusion in SEMA digital coverage before, during and after the Show.
• On-site attendee voting for the TORA Best in Show Award. The winner will be announced during the SEMA Show TORA Reception.

 

To ensure all segments of truck and off-road are represented, TORA is accepting applications in the areas of SUV, side-by-side, lifted truck, lowered truck, overland, off-road, EV/hybrid and CUV/crossover.

 

Qualifying companies must be current SEMA and TORA members, and manufacturers must be exhibiting at the SEMA Show. The cost to participate is $1,500, with $500 of that amount benefiting SEMA Cares––the fundraising arm of SEMA that supports a variety of children's charities.  

 

Read to put your build in the spotlight? Submit your application.

By SEMA News Editors

 

SEMA has officially opened entries for the 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers at semabotb.com. Now in its 13th year, the competition continues to stand as the automotive aftermarket's premier platform for custom builders exhibiting at the SEMA Show, and for 2026 it will expand to include motorcycles, introducing an additional set of awards recognizing the Top 3 standout bike builders and an overall motorcycle champion.

 

"It's always exciting to see builders push creative boundaries year after year, and the addition of powersports brings an entirely new level of energy and excitement to the program," said SEMA Vice President of Marketing RJ de Vera. "Battle of the Builders continues to evolve alongside the industry, and we're excited to see how builders push innovation at the 2026 SEMA Show."

 

For 2026, the SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers will again feature its four core automotive competition classes: Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and BFGoodrich Young Guns. Class winners will advance through the competition, with one ultimately named overall Battle of the Builders champion.

 

"Mothers High Performance Car Care is proud to continue supporting the SEMA Battle of the Builders and the talented builders who make this competition one of the most anticipated events at the SEMA Show," said Mothers Vice President of Marketing Shane Christman. "Every year, we're inspired by the creativity, craftsmanship and passion these builders bring to their projects. This program celebrates the dedication behind every build and gives the industry an opportunity to recognize the individuals pushing vehicle customization forward."

 

The 2026 program will also debut a new side to the competition with SEMA Battle of the Builders: Bike Builder Shootout as a dedicated Motorcycle category, expanding the competition to include some of the finest custom two-wheel vehicles in America. Entries will be evaluated separately by motorcycle industry judges based on craftsmanship, design innovation and overall execution, with the Top 10 finalists serving as judges to determine the Top 3 category winners and the overall Bike Builder champion. 

 

In the automotive categories, a panel of aftermarket industry judges will again review all eligible submissions, evaluating build descriptions and photography before conducting in-person assessments on the SEMA Show floor. Judges will narrow entries to a Top 10 in each category, followed by a Top 3 selection. Those 12 finalists will then serve as judges to determine category winners and the overall champion.

 

"It's been great to be back at the SEMA Battle of the Builders," said Troy Trepanier of Rad Rides by Troy after winning the overall 2025 Battle of the Builders trophy last November. "It's grown a lot since we first won the event eight years ago. We finally had a car worthy of being back in the competition. There were so many great cars this year. Everybody here is a winner--all 40, all 12, especially the Final Four."

 

When asked what it’s like to win the SEMA Battle of the Builders for the second time, Trepanier said, "It is always nice to be judged by your peers in the industry and get recognized."

 

Supporting the Next Generation of Builders

The BFGoodrich Young Guns category highlights emerging talent, open to builders 29 years old and younger at the time of the SEMA Show. Entrants may be selected to participate in virtual Golden Ticket competitions held throughout the summer, with prize packages that include vehicle transportation to Las Vegas, plus travel and hotel accommodations. At the Show, the Top 10 BFGoodrich Young Guns finalists compete within their own field, narrowing to a Top 3. First introduced in 2024, the BFGoodrich Young Guns Top 10 competition format continues to expand opportunity and visibility for rising builders.

 

"BFGoodrich is proud to support the next generation of builders through the BFGoodrich Young Guns category at the SEMA Battle of the Builders," said BFGoodrich Ultra High Performance Brand Manager TJ Dennis. "Creating opportunities for young builders to showcase their talent, gain industry recognition and compete alongside some of the best in the business is what makes this program so special. We’re excited to continue supporting the innovation, passion and creativity that define the future of vehicle customization."

 

For more information or to enter the 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders, visit semabotb.com.

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com.  

 

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.