BluePrint Engines to Debut Custom Bel Air at SEMA
The 1,250-horsepower V-16 build debuts at the Las Vegas Convention Center on November 3.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Car Culture
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BluePrint Engines will debut a custom 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air and a 1,250-horsepower V-16 engine at the SEMA Show on Nov. 3, 2026. This display at the Las Vegas Convention Center showcases high-performance custom builds for automotive enthusiasts.
Why it matters
For hobbyists and project-car owners, these builds demonstrate advanced engine engineering and custom fabrication techniques that represent the bleeding edge of the automotive aftermarket.
The custom 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air build utilizes a 598-ci GM Big Block engine alongside an Art Morrison chassis and Bowler 4L80E transmission. These specifications are part of a high-performance demonstration at booth #23243.
The players
BluePrint Engines
An automotive engine manufacturer known for creating high-performance crate engines and custom power plants.
CAL Automotive Creations
A Nebraska-based shop specializing in professional custom car fabrication and vehicle restoration.
Lacey McClellan
A professional tattoo artist working in the custom automotive culture space since 1996.
Art Morrison
A well-known designer and manufacturer of high-performance custom chassis and suspension systems.
Bowler Performance Transmissions
A specialist in high-torque transmission solutions for street rods and custom automotive builds.
The details
The custom Bel Air features extensive bodywork, interior refinements, and custom paint handled by CAL Automotive Creations. Meanwhile, the massive 854-cubic-inch V-16 engine was created by combining two 427 LS engines using custom-fabricated, billet, and 3D-printed components to achieve its peak output.
Timeline
Nov. 3, 2026: The custom 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air debuts at 12:30 p.m. PST.
Nov. 6, 2026: Lacey McClellan hosts a live tattoo activation at the booth.
The Home Front
These custom builds represent a trend in the aftermarket industry toward extreme engine displacement and modular, multi-block power plant design. This approach mirrors the continued evolution of the LS engine platform as the foundation for modern performance car customization.
If you are planning your own custom build or restoration, consider researching the integration of modular billet components seen in these high-output projects. Consult with a licensed professional to ensure any performance modifications to your vehicle engine or chassis meet safety and legal standards for street use.
The takeaway
The engineering on display at this show highlights the potential of combining existing engine architectures to reach new performance thresholds. Consider documenting your own vehicle's engine specifications to track how your build compares to professional-grade performance standards.
Further reading
Explore more project builds and restoration trends in the Car Culture section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by THE SHOP.
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