Originally planned for a SEMA 2025 debut, Maffett Motorwerks’ highly anticipated C10 project will now appear at SEMA 2026.
For the team behind the build, the delay wasn’t a setback—it was a decision rooted in quality.
“As the vision for this project grew—with extensive custom metalwork, a fully reimagined interior, and deeper brand integration—it became clear that rushing to meet the 2025 deadline would compromise the final product,” said the founder of Maffett Motorwerks.
“Rather than cut corners, we chose to extend the timeline so the C10 arrives at SEMA exactly as it was intended.”
The decision reflects a simple philosophy: craft over compromise.
Adapting to Changing Conditions
External factors also played a role in the revised timeline.
Recent tariffs and supply chain challenges have significantly impacted the availability and pricing of specialty materials used in custom builds.
Instead of slowing down the project, the team adjusted its strategy.
“We leaned into domestic suppliers and reorganized parts of the build schedule so fabrication and pre-assembly could continue while material costs stabilized.”
The shift opened the door for new collaborations—including a partnership with Divine One Customs, a Las Vegas–based shop known for high-end paint and body work.
“Teaming up with Divine One Customs felt natural,” the builder said. “Our shared focus on craftsmanship and originality makes the collaboration incredibly exciting.”
The Brands Behind the Build
Project Novello has attracted an impressive list of partners across the automotive aftermarket.
This build isn’t just about visuals. It’s about vision. Key brands have joined the project, including Holley, Eastwood, Ron Francis Wiring, American Racing, East Side Motorsports, Golden Starr Classic Auto Parts, and Dirt Legal, to name a few.
“These companies deliver top-tier performance components,” the builder explained. “But they also add to the storytelling element of the project—from custom gauges and premium upholstery to CNC-machined accents.”
Each brand contributes another chapter to the build.
And there’s still room to collaborate. The team is open to support in the form of materials, media exposure, brand integration, and monetized content partnerships.
With the right help, Project Novello’s final stretch can become its most impactful.
“Support with materials, marketing visibility, cross-brand connections, or helping elevate awareness through content that could bring monetary sponsors to the project would be huge.”
Why the Name “Novello” Matters
The name behind the truck carries deep meaning.
Paul Novello was a lifelong friend of the builder and the original owner of the C10.
The truck had been passed down from Paul’s father, and as a teenager, he drove it hard, building memories that stayed with him long after the engine cooled.
Eventually, the truck was parked deep in the woods, where it sat untouched for decades.
Years later, Paul and the Maffett Motorwerks team dreamed of restoring it together.
But when Paul was diagnosed with aggressive cancer, that dream became urgent.
Before he passed away, he asked the team to finish the build he never had the chance to start.
“We showed him concept sketches and the build vision before he passed,” the builder recalled. “Seeing those designs brought him to tears.”
Today, every bolt, panel, and weld carries more than engineering—it carries Paul’s memory.
Project Novello isn’t just a truck.
It’s a tribute to friendship, family, and finishing what someone else began.
When It Arrives at SEMA
When the C10 finally rolls onto the floor at SEMA 2026, it will represent more than craftsmanship and performance.
It will represent perseverance.
Every detail—from the bodywork to the interior design—tells part of a story that began decades ago.
For Maffett Motorwerks, the goal isn’t simply to create a showpiece.
It’s to build something meaningful.
Because while some builds chase trophies, this one chases purpose.
Supporting Classic Builds Beyond the Garage
Restoring a classic truck like the Novello C10 is only part of the journey.
Once the fabrication is finished and the engine is running, another challenge often begins: navigating vehicle registration requirements.
Classic builds, custom vehicles, and specialty projects frequently involve complex paperwork, inspections, and changing state regulations.
That’s where Dirt Legal helps vehicle owners simplify the process.
Their team assists drivers across the country with registration services for unique vehicles—from collector cars and off-road builds to specialty imports—helping owners move forward without unnecessary DMV frustration.
Watch the process of the C10 restoration above and see how Daniel and Andy brought this truck back from the brink.
Ready to Register Your Project Vehicle?
Custom builds deserve to be enjoyed on the road, not stuck in paperwork delays.
Dirt Legal helps drivers navigate the complex paperwork involved in registering classic vehicles, custom builds, and specialty projects.
Skip the DMV frustration and move forward with a Hassle-Free registration process.
Skip the red tape. Get legal. Learn more about how Dirt Legal works here
