Inaugural High Performance Expo Exceeds Expectations of Exhibitors and Attendees
HPX to Return to Charlotte Convention Center in 2026 Focus on developing bigger, better and more comprehensive show
CHARLOTTE, NC – The inaugural High Performance Expo (HPX) is in the books and plans are already underway to make it bigger, better and more comprehensive for exhibitors, attendees and enthusiasts. HPX 2026 will be held in June 2026, at the Charlotte Convention Center.
The High Performance Expo team and its supporters like the North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA) worked hard to develop a premier, first class automotive performance and aftermarket show that Charlotte can be proud to call its own. HPX exhibitors, attendees, sponsors, partners and enthusiasts’ support and involvement underscore the importance of this more than $6 billion a year industry to the North Carolina economy and more than $330 billion in the US, according to industry experts.
Based out of Mooresville, NC, Greg Fornelli’s Stock Car Steel & Aluminum and SRI Performance, major suppliers to NASCAR and many other forms of motorsports, were happy to be the first Charlotte-area based businesses to register for the inaugural show. Not only did Fornelli bring out Stock Car Steel & Aluminum and SRI Performance, his other companies, SPA Technique Fire Suppression, BAM Roller Lifters, and Kirkey Racing Fabrication were also exhibiting.
“I have waited my entire career for a show like the High Performance Expo to come to Charlotte. A show that highlights our region’s long-time passion and commitment to high performance auto racing has finally arrived!” said Fornelli. “I talked with exhibitors and attendees during the three-day show, and everyone was impressed with the event’s energy, innovation, and professionalism.”
Hendrick Motorsports Group supported HPX with its industry leaders like Jeff Gordon and Jeff ‘JB’ Brown headlining the opening general session, an automotive technician recruiting hub with 12 schools in attendance, an engine building demonstration and competition, plus several of the Hendrick Motorsports race cars on display.
“This is our passion, our profession and our lives. A thriving automotive, racing and aftermarket industry is essential to Charlotte, North Carolina and the country, so we are committed to helping grow the High Performance Expo,” said Alba Colon, director of technical partnerships at Hendrick Motorsports. “This is the first new industry trade show in decades, and HPX exceeded our expectations and is positioned for success going forward.”
Poole-Adams Racing, known for its success with COPO Camaros, revealed a modified, first-of-its-kind Toyota Supra NHRA stock eliminator car at HPX 2025. In addition, they launched a new line of exclusive drag racing parts and kits developed with key manufacturers during the building of this new entry.
“HPX was the perfect venue to introduce the Supra and the new drag parts and kits we created from the collaboration with Toyota,” said Daren Poole-Adams, owner of Poole-Adams Racing, Inc. “This is my 30th season racing and I consider Charlotte my home turf. It just made sense to partner with HPX on this fresh, new approach to showcasing the industry in the epicenter of motorsports and performance.”
Charlotte is where the best in the business pushes the boundaries of automotive racing innovation and technology, and the organizers couldn’t think of a better community to team up with to bring HPX to life.
“The inaugural High Performance Expo (HPX) was a great success, and we’ve received very positive feedback from exhibitors, attendees and enthusiasts. We’ve already had exhibitors from this year sign up for next year and are receiving inquiries for more information on HPX 2026,” said Dana Teague, HPX general manager. “Launching a new trade show is a huge undertaking, but our team and the community was ready and made it happen. Charlotte embraced HPX and as a result, we’ll be back next year.”
Tamsen Beroth, Owner and CEO of Speedology Lifestyle Solutions said she had an unforgettable time at the inaugural HPX.
“The energy, authenticity, and purpose behind this event set a powerful tone for what’s to come. We were honored to reconnect with existing partners and build new relationships with incredible vendors, sponsors and attendees,” she said. “This was more than a launch – it was the beginning of something with massive potential. We’re already looking ahead to June 2026 with excitement and momentum!”
Other exhibitor and attendee comments include:
- “We already signed up for next year. We’re going with a bigger booth.” Albert Solano – Quantum Machinery Group
- “During our first two hours of this trade show, we did more business than I’ve done previously in the last two years at trade shows. We appreciate HPX.” Chris Johnson – CEO, JMS Chip and Performance
- “HPX is doing a fine, fine job. For me, this gives me a place to go and grow.” Antron Brown – Four time NHRA top fuel drag racing champion and owner of AB Motorsports
- “The energy from the show was amazing …everyone was smiling and having a great time.” Mamba Smith – social media personality, commentator, and racing driver
- “This is our proof of life. We will be here next year.” Lori Spaulding – Chief Operations Officer, Dream Giveaway
- “HPX Is cutting its teeth as the east coast definition of an in-depth, hard core, high horsepower, high value expo in the heart of race country. Learn from the greats and find new suppliers and outlets all in the same show.” Brendan Jakobiak — The Gnomeworks
- “It was great for the first year and I think it will grow into something massive.” Jason David Smith — Popsicle Creations
- “The quality of the businesses and organizations at HPX was second to none.” David Smith — Road Warrior Racing
- “We were able to make so many new meaningful connections that helped to advance ourselves professionally and socially.” Jainishia Zeno — NKG Worx
- “I had a great time and enjoyed seeing new products that can help my business stand out.” Joseph Williamson III — Novajoe’s Techologies and Media
The 2026 High Performance Expo (HPX), the exclusive business and enthusiast show hosted by the North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA), will be held in June 2026, at the Charlotte Convention Center. The event will bring together all segments of the automotive aftermarket industry in the heart of the auto racing community.
For more information on HPX, go to www.TheHPX.com. HPX is on Instagram @HighPerformanceExpo, and on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook @TheHPX.
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About the High Performance Expo
HPX’s mission is to advance the automotive industry, racing, and the high-performance lifestyle. The High Performance Expo is dedicated to advancing the business of the automotive aftermarket. HPX will be a modern customer-focused expo for car enthusiasts and professionals. The inaugural HPX was held in June 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina at the Charlotte Convention Center.
About the North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA)
NCMA is the leading organization for motorsports in North Carolina. NCMA is committed to promoting, preserving and advancing this thrilling sport. Founded in 2002 to promote and serve the motorsports community in North Carolina, the association has members that range from race teams and tracks to attorneys and accountants. Its mission includes legislative representation at the state level to ensure that the industry’s best interests are served. NCMA also offers opportunities for members to interact as well as attend seminars that benefit the self-employed as well as large corporations.
