Emelia Hartford

Emelia Hartford is an American automotive content creator, record-breaking custom car builder, race car driver, and actress. Born on July 29, 1993, she gained widespread recognition through her digital media platforms, where she chronicles high-performance automotive modifications, track testing, and racing endeavors. Hartford is celebrated as one of the prominent female figures in modern car culture, notably building one of the world's fastest twin-turbo Corvette C8s and starring in automotive-themed film and television productions.

Early Life and Automotive Beginnings

Born in Los Angeles, California, Hartford spent a portion of her youth in Bloomington, Indiana, before later returning to Southern California. Her interest in automotive mechanics developed during her teenage years when she began learning about car maintenance and working on personal vehicle builds. Before establishing a full-time digital career, Hartford pursued acting while juggling jobs in the service industry. Her early posts documenting garage projects on Instagram caught the attention of major automotive brands, including tire manufacturer Michelin, which invited her to press events and connected her with established creators in the automotive media space.

Automotive Engineering and Racing

Hartford launched her self-titled YouTube channel in 2017, focusing on hands-on vehicle modifications, engine swaps, and performance testing. She gained international acclaim in the automotive community for her custom C8 Corvette build, affectionately named "Phoenix," which broke drag-strip speed records for the model by utilizing custom twin-turbocharger setups and reaching over 1,000 horsepower. Her build portfolio also features custom projects such as an LS-swapped Nissan 240SX, a K-swapped Honda Prius, a modified Nissan Z, and a vintage Plymouth Superbird. Beyond car building, Hartford has competed in SCCA time trials and participated in prestigious events like the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.

Acting and Media Appearances

In addition to her digital creation, Hartford maintains a career as a SAG-AFTRA actress and television personality. She appeared in Netflix original holiday films including A California Christmas: City Lights and That's Amor, as well as the HBO Max feature film A Hollywood Christmas. In 2023, she appeared in the feature film Gran Turismo, directed by Neill Blomkamp. Hartford has also hosted and judged automotive television programs, serving as a judge on SEMA: Battle of the Builders, competing on Netflix's Fastest Car, co-hosting MotorTrend's animated series Super Turbo Story Time, and appearing in Chevrolet promotional material for the Corvette Z06.