SPE ACCE 2026 calls for innovative parts nominations

Two Most Innovative Prototype Part materials category winner Kautex. Source | SPE ACCE

The SPE Automotive Composites Conference & Expo (ACCE) has issued a call for nominations for its annual innovative parts competition at the  Sept. 9-10, 2026, conference in Novi, Michigan.

Any registered conference participant (speaker, sponsor/exhibitor or attendee) may nominate original equipment or aftermarket composite parts on automotive, heavy truck or other transportation applications from anywhere in the world. Prototype parts are also eligible. Companies, organizations and universities are encouraged to participate and be recognized for their innovative production parts or prototypes. The vehicle producer must give permission and the part must be brought to the SPE ACCE for a formal review by judges. 

A total of five prizes will be awarded, including four for the most innovative Production Part and Prototype Part in Materials Innovation and Process Innovation categories (selected by judges who are industry experts and members of the SPE ACCE planning committee) and one People’s Choice award winner will be selected by conference attendees. Winning teams will receive recognition and a trophy at the event. 

Nomination abstracts are due July 30, 2026, and final write-ups are due Aug. 30, 2026. See nomination instructions here. For more info, contact Part Competition chair Dr. Leonardo Simon: LSimon@uwaterloo.ca.