HARD CHARGER
November 15, 2024
THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured
Hardin Marine Dual-Stage Swirl-Away Sea Strainer
Hardin Marine has been very aggressive lately in new product development, even though this is a company with a long history in the marine business and already has many exclusive product designs. One of the company’s newest products builds on Hardin’s widespread acceptance. Its Swirl-Away Sea Strainer line is at the forefront of technology in the area of cooling system protection.
Golden Anniversary Special
Just about any gearhead would be thrilled by the opportunity to work with legendary automotive collector and all-around funny guy Jay Leno. Dave Killackey, owner of Performance Transmissions in Azusa, California, not only had the opportunity to work on a number of Leno’s projects, but along the way he’s developed a friendship with the late-night TV host. It’s a close enough friendship that Leno teamed with automotive designer Chip Foose and his “Overhaulin’” TV show to completely transform his rusted-out ’56 Chevrolet Nomad. So yes, you did read this correctly; Dave Killackey is indeed one of the luckiest car guys on the planet—he’s friends with Jay Leno, and he owns a ’56 Nomad that has been overhauled by Chip Foose and the rest of his team.
Trick Truck Suspension
Free Jaguar? Don Shirer couldn’t resist the tempting offer, even if it meant just for the prized suspension lurking beneath. This XJ6 boasted the coveted independent rear suspension and A-frame front, perfect for his vision of a smoother-riding ’55 Chevy pickup. Follow along as Shirer masterfully tackles the swap, using readily available tools and his own ingenuity to bridge the gap between classic and modern.
Spotlighter
HPX Emerges as a Must-Watch Tradeshow for the Performance Industry
An all-new expo experience focused on performance parts, racing tech, and industry talent
There’s a new name making waves in the high-performance and motorsports world: HPX. The High Performance Expo, presented by the North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA), brings fresh energy and forward-thinking focus to the industry. Held at the Charlotte Convention Center, HPX delivers a dynamic experience for automotive professionals, racers, fabricators, and performance enthusiasts alike. Built as a bridge between business and passion, HPX sets out to connect the key players in performance engineering, aftermarket innovation, and motorsports culture—and it’s already making a strong impression.
Author
Jamie Dent
Photography by Scott Killeen & HPX
A Tradeshow Designed for Today’s Industry
Occupying 73,000 square feet of space across Halls B & C, HPX features a wide range of exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge components, tools, and technologies. From high-output engines and lightweight chassis designs to advanced electronics and fabrication gear, the expo highlights what’s driving the industry forward—both on and off the track.
Charlotte serves as the perfect backdrop. With its rich motorsports history and proximity to major racing operations, the city helps HPX blend innovation with heritage in a setting that feels both relevant and inspiring.
Showcasing the Best in Performance
A centerpiece of the event is the PerformancePLUS Competition, where top-tier builds and breakthrough technologies take center stage. Builders and brands show off what’s possible when engineering precision meets creativity, with each entry pushing the envelope in its own unique way.
The NCMA Tribute in Motorsports Award Ceremony honors key contributors who shape the industry’s legacy. This moment of reflection underscores the event’s respect for the past—even as it pushes toward the future.
Knowledge Sharing That Hits the Mark
HPX keeps attendees engaged with a full slate of PowerTalks and General Sessions. These aren’t generic lectures—they’re real conversations led by thought leaders across the performance and motorsports landscape. Topics range from business strategy and supply chain trends to electrification, materials science, and the evolving world of competitive racing.
The Women’s Em[POWER]ment Summit stands out as a particularly impactful initiative, creating space for mentorship, leadership, and collaboration. It highlights the growing role of women in motorsports and the importance of inclusion across all levels of the industry.
A Launchpad for the Next Generation
HPX invests in the future with its Recruiting Hub, where companies meet emerging talent and young professionals explore new career paths. Whether you’re an engineer, technician, marketer, or fabricator, the hub offers a gateway into an industry that thrives on skilled, passionate people.
Meanwhile, the Podcast Studio keeps the energy flowing with live recordings, interviews, and on-the-spot commentary that amplifies the voices of the expo. Social channels light up with highlights from the floor, helping build community around the event in real time.
Why HPX Matters
HPX isn’t just another stop on the event calendar—it’s a growing force that brings together the people, products, and ideas that shape high-performance automotive culture. From deal-making and product launches to inspiring conversations and career connections, it creates meaningful opportunities across the board.
With a strong foundation, a smart location, and a clearly defined purpose, HPX is carving out its place as a standout industry gathering. For anyone serious about performance, innovation, and the future of motorsports, this is one event worth keeping on your radar.
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