Meet The Grid by Chemical Guys: Japfest’s Brand-New Show and Shine Competition
Japfest has always been about pushing the boundaries of Japanese car culture, and for Saturday 19th April 2026, the show is introducing a brand-new feature set to redefine the show-and-shine experience. Formerly known as Street Elite, the competition has been completely reworked and reborn as The Grid by Chemical Guys. For 2026, Japfest welcomes Chemical Guys as new event partners, bringing a fresh approach, bigger presence, and a renewed focus on detail, presentation, and build quality.
A Reimagined Show and Shine Experience
The Grid by Chemical Guys is more than a name change. It’s a full rethink of how show cars are showcased at Japfest. For the first time, the show-and-shine competition will be hosted directly on the Chemical Guys stand in the main paddock, placing the selected cars at the very centre of the event.
This new location means increased visibility, constant foot traffic, and the chance for each build to be seen by thousands of enthusiasts throughout the day. It also reflects a key part of the new concept behind The Grid: being selected is an achievement in itself…
Thirty Cars. One Grid.
Ahead of the event, 30 cars will be hand selected to take part in The Grid by Chemical Guys. Each accepted vehicle will be displayed together, creating a curated lineup of some of the finest Japanese builds attending Japfest. But there’s more, every car that is selected for The Grid will receive a Chemical Guys product and microfibre cloth on the day, reinforcing the idea that all entrants are winners before judging even begins. The 30 cars will then be assessed throughout the event, with the Top Three announced live on the day.
Prizes Worthy of the Detail
The prizes on offer reflect the level of craftsmanship expected on The Grid. The two runners-up will each receive a Chemical Guys’ detailing kit along with a winner’s skate deck, while the overall winner will take home a premium detailing kit, a bespoke trophy, and the all-important bragging rights of being crowned the first ever winner of The Grid.
The Grid by Chemical Guys celebrates more than just how a car looks. It’s about the hours spent perfecting paintwork, refining engine bays, dialling in interiors, and obsessing over the details that set a build apart. By placing the competition in the heart of the paddock, Japfest is shining a spotlight on the passion, creativity, and craftsmanship that define the modified Japanese car scene.
More Information Coming Soon
More news on The Grid by Chemical Guys will be revealed soon, including full details on how to enter. If you’ve got a car you believe to be worthy and you’re attending Japfest as part of a club display or as an individual exhibitor, make sure you keep a close eye on our social channels for upcoming announcements. The Grid is coming, and this is one feature you won’t want to miss. To buy your public ticket click HERE.
