SEMA and RACER Network Launched Docuseries on Builders
The new four-part series explores the craftsmanship behind the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders champions.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Car Culture
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SEMA and the RACER Network have launched a new four-part docuseries showcasing the creative processes of the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders champions. Each 25-minute episode highlights the custom fabrication work behind these award-winning vehicle projects.
Why it matters
The series offers enthusiasts a behind-the-scenes look at the technical skill and commitment required for high-level automotive customization. It aims to spotlight the innovation involved in professional car building to inspire the next generation of hobbyists.
The docuseries highlights four category winners, including the overall Best of Show winner Troy Trepanier. Each episode spans approximately 25 minutes, detailing the fabrication journey of projects like the 350-component build by Ron Jones.
The players
SEMA
The Specialty Equipment Market Association is a trade group representing the automotive specialty equipment industry and hosting the annual SEMA Show.
RACER Network
This media platform provides automotive and racing coverage as the distribution channel for the new docuseries.
Troy Trepanier
An automotive builder who secured the Best of Show title at the 2025 Battle of the Builders with a custom 1936 Ford-inspired Roadster.
The details
The series follows builders through the design, fabrication, and complex problem-solving stages of their custom projects. Episodes reveal the specific creative decisions and in-house metalwork that shaped winning vehicles, ranging from a 1967 Chevrolet C10 to a 1960 Porsche Custom 356.
Timeline
October 7, 2026: Series premiere at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT.
November 1, 2026: Encore marathon broadcast at 11:30 p.m. ET.
November 15, 2026: Encore marathon broadcast at 1 p.m. ET.
November 22, 2026: Encore marathon broadcast at 4 p.m. ET.
The Home Front
The docuseries documents the technical fabrication journey of the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders winners, extending the reach of the live competition to a broader audience. It reflects a growing trend of professional automotive competitions producing long-form content for home viewers.
Home builders and automotive hobbyists should watch these episodes to observe the specialized fabrication techniques used by professional fabricators on custom projects. Consider noting the specific design solutions mentioned in the series for application to your own garage or restoration work.
The takeaway
The series highlights how rigorous planning and custom fabrication are the foundations of building show-quality vehicles. Enthusiasts should look for the premiere on October 7, 2026, to learn how builders tackle complex design challenges in their own shops.
Further reading
Discover more stories about enthusiast vehicle projects in our Car Culture section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by THE SHOP.
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