Automotive Fleet’s Chris Brown Takes the Wheel in 2026 Corporate Soap Box Derby Challenge – Vehicle Research

Automotive Fleet is officially entering the fast lane.

Chris Brown, associate publisher of Automotive Fleet, will represent the brand as Team Brown within the relaunched 2026 Corporate Soap Box Derby Challenge, set for Aug. 20–21 at Historic Derby Downs in Akron, Ohio.

Presented by Bobit Business Media in collaboration with the International Soap Box Derby and in partnership with The Hourglass Foundation, the Corporate Derby Challenge invites corporations, small businesses, groups, and community organizations to construct, decorate, and race their very own soap box derby cars in a team-based event designed for equal parts fun and friendly competition.

Along with racing, organizations can even join the motion by sponsoring considered one of the Bobit teams. Sponsorships start at $500, with sponsor logos placed on the sponsored automotive. Proceeds profit The Hourglass Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that gives scholarships for underserved students pursuing education in automotive technology and other expert trades.

“Bringing back the Corporate Derby Challenge with Bobit Business Media adds fresh visibility and momentum to a program built around innovation, teamwork, and community,” said Dennis VanFossen Jr., president and CEO of the International Soap Box Derby. “It’s a fantastic solution to connect latest partners to our mission of inspiring the following generation.”

Funds generated through participation also support the International Soap Box Derby’s STEM-based teaching programs, including STEM curriculum and summer camps focused on youth learning and leadership development.

The event will feature two Bobit-sponsored cars, including Team Brown and Work Truck’s Team Fletcher. Leading as much as race day, the 2 teams are also sparring in a separate battle: who can secure essentially the most corporate sponsors before the wheels hit the hill.

“We’re excited to be a part of an event that invites the fleet community to point out up in multiple ways, whether that’s racing a automotive or sponsoring a team,” said Kim Davidson, executive director of The Hourglass Foundation. “It’s a fun experience, and it helps us expand scholarship opportunities for college students working toward hands-on careers.”

Sponsorships for Team Fletcher can be found at $500 per sponsor, with logos displayed on the automotive throughout the event. Or, take part on the fun, and do each – sponsor a team AND consider entering your individual automotive into the race! Details here!