HIGH PERFORMANCE EXPO ANNOUNCES THE 2026 ADVISORY COUNCIL
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — HPX is the future of the automotive aftermarket and where the high-performance automotive world converges to build what’s next. Held in Charlotte – the beating heart of American motorsports – HPX is a trade show and conference that unites the full spectrum of the industry: manufacturers, race teams, builders, retailers, shop owners, content creators, and enthusiasts. It’s a launchpad for innovation, a marketplace for serious business, and a community built on speed, grit, and collaboration.
From pioneering product design to next-level tuning and business growth, HPX is where the future of performance begins.
ADVISORY COUNCIL ANNOUNCED
The High Performance Expo (HPX) announced the second annual selection of its Advisory Council, reaffirming the event’s commitment to advancing and elevating its role as the newest show in the automotive aftermarket.
The HPX Advisory Council brings together a diverse group of aftermarket innovators, motorsports professionals, and industry thought leaders who provide strategic insight, share expertise, and help guide the growth and success of the expo and conference.
This year’s council includes both charter members — instrumental in establishing the foundation and vision of HPX — and new members who bring fresh perspectives and expanded expertise. Together, they will consult, evaluate emerging trends, and develop recommendations that shape the future of the High Performance Expo.
Charter and returning members of the HPX Advisory Council include:
- Jeff Andrews – president and general manager, Hendrick Motorsports
- Jim Cozzie – director of business development, Ridetech
- Doug Evans, president and CEO, High Performance Advisors
- Greg Fornelli – founder and president, Stock Car Steel and Aluminum
- Chris Harris – founder, African American Automotive Association (AAAA)
- Winston Kelley – executive director, NASCAR Hall of Fame
- Patrick Rogers – vice president of marketing services, NASCAR
- Les Rudd – president, Bob Cook Sales
New members joining the 2026 council include:
- Barron Akins – vice president, J.P. Morgan Private Bank
- Gary Armstrong – president and CEO, Dry Sump Systems
- Tamsen Beroth – owner and CEO, Speedology Lifestyle Solutions
- Galen Biggs – program coordinator, race car technology, Forsyth Technical Community College
- Alba Colon – director, technical partnerships, Hendrick Motorsports
- Eric Flatt – director of national sales, National Hot Rod Association (NHRA)
- Moe Habbal – sales manager/brand support, Auto Addict USA
- Chris Johnson – CEO, JMS Performance Group
- David Morton, senior vice president, motorsports and automotive aftermarket, Fifth Third Bank
- Ron Mowen – owner, Vengeance Racing
- Jessica Sokolowski – senior manager, Ford Accessories Marketing
- Jim Sweener – director of business development, MyRacePass
- Chad Willis – executive director, NCMA
Dr. Jamie Meyer, HPX director of Industry Relations, will organize and set the agenda for the council.
“HPX continues to elevate the industry, and its growth reflects the strength of the vision behind it,” said Eric Flatt, director of national sales, National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). “Building this event in the Charlotte market has proven to be a powerful choice, offering natural opportunities across the East Coast and beyond. The HPX team has brought together an incredible group of innovators, companies, and leaders who share a common goal—to deliver a next-generation trade show experience for professionals and enthusiasts alike. It’s an honor to help shape what HPX is becoming.”
“The HPX Advisory Council brings invaluable insight and direction to the event,” said Dana Teague, HPX managing director. “Their collective expertise helps us design an experience that truly resonates with our audience. Their guidance continues to be instrumental in driving new ideas, creating excitement, and setting HPX apart. As we move into our second year, we’re focused on delivering even greater value and making HPX a must-attend destination for the industry.”
Moe Habbal, sales manager/brand support for Auto Addict USA said, “HPX has been an incredible platform for Auto Addict USA to expand our presence and connect with the East Coast performance community. Coming back for year two was an easy decision — the energy, professionalism, and engagement we experienced last year truly elevated our brand exposure. Being part of the HPX Advisory Council is an honor; it allows us to collaborate with other industry leaders, share insight from the West Coast manufacturing and design side, and help shape the future of the event. HPX isn’t just a show — it’s a bridge connecting innovation, passion, and the people who drive the aftermarket industry forward.”
“I am delighted to be returning to the advisory council for the HPX show in Charlotte in 2026. The caliber of talent included on our council is terrific, covering virtually every aspect of the performance automotive aftermarket and the racing community,” said Doug Evans, president and CEO, High Performance Advisors. “This experience, combined with the dedication and knowledge of Taffy Events’ staff, will produce a show that is certain to deliver even bigger and better results than the inaugural show in 2025. HPX adds a much needed footprint for the industry in the southeast and is destined to become an icon synonymous with the world of racing and performance for generations to come.”
The second annual High Performance Expo (HPX), hosted by the North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA), will be held from June 2-4, 2026, at the Charlotte Convention Center (CCC). The event will bring together all segments of the automotive aftermarket community in the heart of the auto racing industry.
To get additional information about HPX 2026, go to www.TheHPX.com. HPX is on Instagram @HighPerformanceExpo, and @TheHPX on X, YouTube, LinkedIn and Facebook.
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About the High Performance Expo
HPX is the future of the automotive aftermarket and where the high-performance automotive world converges to build what’s next. Held in Charlotte – the beating heart of American motorsports – HPX is a trade show and conference that unites the full spectrum of the industry: manufacturers, race teams, builders, retailers, and die-hard enthusiasts. It’s a launchpad for innovation, a marketplace for serious business, and a community built on speed, grit, and collaboration. HPX is where the future of performance gets built.
The High Performance Expo is scheduled for June 2-4, 2026, in Charlotte, NC at the Charlotte Convention Center. HPX is owned and managed by Taffy Event Strategies.
About the North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA)
The North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA) is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit trade organization dedicated to promoting, protecting, and growing the motorsports industry across North Carolina. Established in 2002, NCMA represents a broad membership base that includes race teams, tracks, manufacturers, service providers, suppliers, professional service firms, and related businesses that drive the state’s motorsports economy.
NCMA serves as the unified voice of the industry at the state level, providing legislative and regulatory advocacy to ensure that the business interests of the motorsports community are recognized and supported. The association also fosters collaboration and professional development through networking events, industry programs, educational seminars, and member engagement opportunities that benefit organizations of all sizes, from small enterprises to major corporations.
Through leadership, partnership, and industry alignment, NCMA works to strengthen North Carolina’s position as the state where motorsports means business.
Media Contact:
High Performance Expo
Pamela Miller
pmiller@thehpx.com
817-991-5400
