Chip Foose Will Unveil Restored 1955 Delray at SEMA
The custom build debuts in Las Vegas on November 3, 2026, as a tribute to wildfire resilience.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Car Culture
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Local car enthusiasts attending the 2026 SEMA Show will see a resurrected 1955 Chevrolet Delray that was previously destroyed by wildfire. Designed by Chip Foose, the vehicle incorporates salvaged components to symbolize the resilience of wildfire survivors.
Why it matters
The project serves as a physical tribute to the history of the vehicle and a symbol of recovery. It highlights the intersection of automotive craftsmanship and disaster recovery efforts.
The restoration features a 1955 Chevrolet Delray showcased at SEMA booth 24477. The total number of salvaged parts recovered from the fire is currently unknown.
The players
Chip Foose
The designer who developed the custom restoration plan for the 1955 Chevrolet Delray.
Coulson Aviation
The aviation firm partnering on the restoration project.
SEMA Show
The annual automotive trade event in Las Vegas where the vehicle will be unveiled.
The details
Developed as part of the RISE Program, the restoration involved contributions from Summit Racing, Kicker, and MagnaFlow. The cabin features a custom interior from Foose Design using Apex Leather installed by Coulson Autosports. The vehicle is scheduled for its official public debut in Las Vegas during the upcoming SEMA event.
Timeline
November 3, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. PST
Beyond the Strip
The project follows the long-standing trend of high-profile builds debuted at the SEMA Show. It reflects a shift toward using the convention as a platform for thematic storytelling beyond standard commercial product launches.
Attendees at the 2026 SEMA Show can view the restored vehicle at booth 24477 starting November 3. The display offers residents a firsthand look at the recovery work performed by the RISE Program.
The takeaway
The restoration of the fire-damaged Delray demonstrates how salvaged mechanical elements can be transformed into a tribute piece. Watch for the public debut on November 3 at the SEMA Show to see the full implementation of the Foose design.
Further reading
For more on upcoming custom vehicle debuts and local automotive events, see our full coverage of Car Culture.
Source note: This article includes information reported by THE SHOP.
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