Payload Reports

SEMA 2026 Showcases Extreme Custom Car Innovations

SEMA 2026 Showcases Extreme Custom Car Innovations

The 2026 SEMA Show has unveiled a range of custom vehicles, showcasing extreme modifications and innovative designs. From a 13-rotor Miata to a six-wheel Ferrari Testarossa, these cars push the boundaries of automotive engineering.

Motor impresario Rob Dahm introduced the 13-rotor Miata, a project that started as a single-rotor engine swap. Dahm added a 12-rotor assembly and four turbochargers, creating a unique and powerful vehicle. The build was inspired by a challenge from Haltech, with Dahm stating, “Haltech asked us to bring this car to SEMA, and that is exactly what we’re going to do, but one rotor is not exactly enough” said motor impresario and YouTube star Rob Dahm, and he also said “Two certainly isn’t. Three, we’ve done that. Four, that’s coming back. But five, even six, and ultimately 12 isn’t enough. It is time, for the 13-rotor Miata.”

Six-Wheel Ferrari Testarossa: A Bold Statement

Gas Monkey Garage presented a six-wheel Ferrari Testarossa, replacing the original engine with a supercharged GM LT4 capable of 1,200 horsepower. The team extended the car, added a third axle, and powered all four rear wheels. This transformation also included upgrading from the original 280-hp Ferrari engine, emphasizing both reliability and power.

“It’s either the six wheels or the fact that we took the Ferrari motor out of it,” said Josh Paris of Gas Monkey Garage. The team prioritized reliability and horsepower in this controversial build.

Ford Frostwarden: Extreme Performance

Ford’s Frostwarden features the new Megazilla 2.0 crate engine, a supercharged 7.3-liter V8 delivering over 1,200 horsepower and 1,000 lb-ft of torque. This specialty vehicle includes 42-inch BFGoodrich tires, custom 18-inch Weld bead-lock wheels, 74Weld portal gear lifts, upgraded Dana driveline hardware, and custom Bilstein dampers. Ford described it as “intentionally extreme,” designed to showcase the capabilities of Ford Racing Parts and engineering.

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Ford emphasized that the Frostwarden is a specialty modified performance vehicle and not available for purchase. However, enthusiasts can build their own using Ford Racing Parts.

Restomods and Widebody Classics

A 1985 Ford F-250 Restomod, built by Doc Johnson Restorations, features a Ford Racing 460-cubic-inch small block producing 575 horsepower. This truck, originally purchased for $800, showcases Ford’s period-correct crate motors. The build was a collaboration with Ford Racing Parts, Ford Customization Specialist Olivia Cin, and Ford Racing Product Manager Michael Goodwin.

The Ring Brothers unveiled “Billie,” a 1965 Pontiac GTO Convertible with a widebody design, adding five inches to its width. This restomod combines a modern drivetrain and suspension with over 650 horsepower and 5,500 build hours. The body was widened through extensive fabrication and carbon fiber use, reimagining the classic Pontiac GTO with Ringbrothers’ signature craftsmanship.

Japanese tuner Liberty Walk transformed a Lamborghini Murcielago with a twin-turbo V12 and manual transmission. The car, built in collaboration with Throtl, features Liberty Walk’s signature body kit. Known for their bold modifications, Liberty Walk has previously worked on models like the Ferrari F40, Nissan R32, and Lamborghini Countach. The Murcielago, salvaged from a wreck, received a new lease on life with this extreme makeover.

These parts are designed to enhance the performance of Honda and Acura production vehicles, such as the Civic Type R and Integra Type S.

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