Akira Nakai to Build Africa’s First Live RWB Porsche at South Africa’s Idle Auto Expo 2026
Viable News Team 
South Africa’s automotive community is preparing for a landmark moment as legendary Japanese custom car builder Akira Nakai is set to visit the country for the first time to complete Africa’s first live RWB Porsche build.
Nakai, the founder of the globally renowned RAUH-Welt Begriff (RWB), will personally transform a Porsche 911 during Idle Auto Expo 2026, giving enthusiasts a rare chance to witness his signature craftsmanship in person.
Known for his hand-built wide-body Porsche conversions, Nakai has earned an international following for creating bespoke vehicles that blend aggressive styling with meticulous attention to detail. Every RWB build is completed by Nakai himself, making each project a highly anticipated event among automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
The South African event will mark a historic first for the continent, with the build becoming Africa’s first live RWB Porsche transformation. Spectators will have the opportunity to watch the entire process unfold as Nakai fits custom body panels and carefully shapes the vehicle into one of his iconic creations.
Adding to the significance of the occasion, organisers have confirmed that the Porsche being transformed will be a one-of-one creation. Built on a limited-numbered Porsche 911, the finished vehicle will be unique, with no identical RWB model existing anywhere else in the world.
The announcement highlights the growing influence of South Africa’s automotive scene, which continues to attract internationally recognised brands, builders and enthusiasts. Hosting one of the world’s most respected custom car designers reflects the country’s emergence as a destination for world-class automotive experiences.
Founded in Japan, RAUH-Welt Begriff has completed custom Porsche builds across Asia, Europe, North America, Australia and the Middle East. Nakai’s distinctive approach often completing builds without extensive measurements while hand-fitting components on-site has become part of the brand’s global appeal.
For Porsche enthusiasts and custom car fans alike, the live build at Idle Auto Expo 2026 promises to be one of the biggest automotive attractions on the African calendar.
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