The industry is bustling right now. For those of you that don’t work in the automotive field, just know that those who are, are currently going through the busiest (and often times most stressful) time of the year. For many, it’s not the largest trade show that is the stressful part – it’s the preparation.

From those like myself that are preparing enough marketing materials to withstand thousands of attendees, to those staying up all night in the garage, hoping to get their builds completed in time.

The SEMA Show is now only a couple of weeks out – the tension (and the excitement) is rising.

Nearly 300 top vehicle builders from all over the world are knee deep in their builds right now, throwing on parts from SEMA exhibitors to help showcase the newest and most badass parts in the industry. Each year, SEMA, as a company, looks to spotlight some of these in their famous “Battle of the Builders” competition.

In addition to generating worldwide attention for the exhibitors and their products, these builds spotlight the amazing talents and craftsmanship found in our industry. Peter MacGillvray, SEMA Vice President of events and business development, explains, “The 2018 SEMA Battle of the Builders competition will allow us to learn about the products and stories behind the cars and trucks of these top builders. Companies who exhibit one of these builds benefit from the increased brand awareness and product exposure.”

Like every year, each participant in the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition is recognized in a plethora of publications before, after, and during the event – including multiple that will be featured on Velocity Network’s show in January. But, this year, SEMA has opened more opportunity to win, with multiple new categories to be judged upon: Hot Rod, Truck/Off-Road, Sport Compact and Young Guns.

Last year’s winner of the Battle of the Builders – Photo: Triplett’s Eye on Cars

Per the press release, specifically chosen industry judges will narrow down the field of nearly 300 entries to the Top 10 in each category before selecting the Top 12 builds overall. The 12 finalists will then take over judging duties and vote to name an overall winner, which will be announced Friday, Nov. 2, at SEMA Ignited, the official SEMA Show after-party.

For those of you that aren’t familiar with the competition, the popular “Young Guns” category is only open to up-and-coming builders, ages 27 and younger. This category has also been expanded for 2018 – with fourteen hand chosen participants. Winners at select car shows across the country were given an all-expenses paid trip to SEMA, including the transportation of their show vehicle and entry into the competition.

For more information about the 2018 Battle of the Builders competition, you can check out their website HERE. For behind-the-scenes content about some of the awesome builds leading up to the show later this month, stay tuned to our website. If you would like to attend the “after-party” SEMA Ignited, you can find out some details HERE. See you there!