The automotive world is buzzing with excitement as the highly anticipated Meguiar's Great Uncover event at Summernats 38 promises to be a spectacle! Prepare for a thrilling showcase of 30 brand-new vehicles on January 8, 2026, an evening that will leave enthusiasts in awe.
But here's where it gets impressive: the sheer number of high-end cars being produced annually is a testament to the thriving automotive industry. Summernats chief steward, Owen Webb, confirms this with a lineup of 21 unveils at Meguiar's MotorEx and eight at Rockynats. And that's just the beginning!
Among the cars to be revealed, a fascinating trend emerges: the Street Elite style. These rides are built to exceptional standards, but with a twist—they lack the intricate detailing under the hood. Owen predicts only a handful of Elite builds with wild undercarriage treatments, emphasizing the cars' street-ready nature.
Another emerging trend is the full-size American pickup, attracting a unique demographic. Owen notes, "Owners of these pickups often have a different background, entering the modified car scene specifically through their love for pickups."
Leading workshops across the nation have been working tirelessly to meet the deadline. ProFlo Performance, fresh from their 2025 SMOTY win with Martin Pecotich's HTKO Monaro, will unveil three new cars at Nats 38. These include a 1939 Chev for Mick Sammut, a stunning HG Monaro, and a tough '48 Chev pickup.
Pat's Pro Restos in Queensland is also contributing a brand-new 1971 Chev Camaro, built to exacting standards and creativity. And let's not forget Jason Holt's VH SL/E, boasting incredible metalwork by Chris Wells and The Ranch Metal Works.
As we eagerly await the event, keep an eye on streetmachine.com.au for more sneak peeks. And remember, the automotive world is full of surprises, where trends evolve, and passion drives innovation!
Matthew Ellard's Toyota Celica:
Matthew and Michael Ellard, from Image Vehicle Manufacturing, are giving Matthew's beloved Celica a new lease of life. This car, owned since he was 17, was once a show car but spent 20 years in storage. Now, it's undergoing a transformation with a unique twist—a Tesla Model S interior!
Stephen Micallef's LJ Torana:
Get ready for a powerhouse! Stephen Micallef's LJ Torana is almost complete, featuring a 1200hp, 632-cube engine. With a Drag Challenge-winning engine from his HQ Tonner, Stephen aims to run sevens aspirated at Drag Challenge and then go even faster with turbos.
Joe Kurtovic's 1933 Ford:
Joe Kurtovic's iconic yellow '33 Ford coupe is undergoing a rebirth. With a new identity inspired by Chris Palazzo's Outlaw roadster and Phil Rillotta's PROST1 Torana, the coupe now sports a 70s fuel coupe theme. The car will feature a stretched wheelbase, a new cage, rear end, and a complete aluminum interior, all in a striking gloss black finish.
Rob Guljas' CV8 Monaro:
Following their success at Nats 37 with the BLWPRM HG, Rob and Jeremy Guljas are back with a beastly CV8 Monaro. This time, they're aiming higher with a 3000hp-capable, twin-turbo big-block engine built by Dandy Engines, ready to tear up the Drag Challenge.
Mathew Hughes' 1973 Toyota Celica TA22:
Mathew Hughes' passion project, a TA22 Celica, is set to make its grand debut. Built at home, this car features a Toyota 3S-GE four-cylinder engine with ITBs and a six-speed manual transmission. With SSR Dori Mesh alloys and Fortune Auto coil-overs, it's a true Japanese-themed beauty.
And this is the part most people miss—the automotive industry is a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation, where enthusiasts push boundaries and create masterpieces. What trends or builds are you most excited about? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
