By Abbey Salvemini
Hot Wheels fans, buckle up — it’s about to get loud and crazy at Nassau Coliseum shortly. Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live is back with its wild, glowing spectacle, Jan. 17-18, introducing spectators to its newest vehicle: Rhinomite.
Following the tour’s success this year, the production is set to debut the rhino-themed truck as part of an expanded slate of stunts and performances for the 2026 season. Audiences can expect new, high-intensity action from the Hot Wheels lineup, including the first no-handed front flip by the FMX riders, when the tour makes its final appearance in Uniondale.
Witness the raw power of these epic machines when the iconic Hot Wheels toy vehicles transform into unstoppable monster trucks for this “Glow-N-Fire” competition. As the arena darkens for the glow-in-the-dark effect, each truck revs up with its unique LED lights. Pyrotechnic effects light up the arena, adding even more intensity to the stunts.
The action unfolds through four signature competitions: the wheelie challenge, the donut, the long jump and the freestyle finale. Together, the components determine the ultimate holder of the Champions Cup. This format allows fans to follow the action closely and see how each truck performs across a variety of challenges, adding a competitive edge to the entertaining experience.
At the center of the excitement is Rhinomite, a truck designed to charge “horn-first” into the lineup with its dynamic, high-impact personality. Along with its striking appearance, Rhinomite will showcase a set of stunts tailored specifically for its debut.
According to its driver, Kellen Williams, Rhinomite offers something entirely new to the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks universe.
“The tool that I have against everybody else is I have a real mighty front horn that I’m going to use to bash the competition,” he says.
Besides Rhinomite, fans can expect several new technical elements in this edition of the show, including that groundbreaking no-handed flip. Returning FMX rider Koltin Polinsky is excited to debut this trick for Long Island audiences.
“Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live is all about pushing the limits, and this stop is going to be one of our wildest yet,” he declares.
Thoroughly enjoyed by dedicated fans and newcomers alike, the show blends competitive action with immersive visual elements that engage all ages.
A major part of the appeal is Glow-N-Fire’s signature darkened arena setting, where glowing trucks, dramatic lighting and special effects give the show a special edge with electrifying visuals.
Arena lights are dimmed at the start, allowing the trucks to glow. After intermission, the show shifts into its fiery segment, highlighting the “fire” element that gives Glow-N-Fire its name.
The production’s popularity has grown in part because of its consistent engagement with fans, particularly younger audiences experiencing monster trucks for the first time.
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live continues to distinguish itself from other monster truck shows on the circuit with its unique characteristics, such as appearing in smaller venues.
“We are very fan-oriented and bring them into the show,” Williams says. “The fans announce the scores a lot of times and we also do toy giveaways. Our shows are mainly geared towards smaller children. However, everybody enjoys it. Children especially love watching the trucks crush cars and the dinosaur-themed elements.”
Opportunities to go behind the action add to the spectacle. At the Pre-Show Party, held two-and-a-half hours prior to every performance, get up close and see the outrageous designs and epic size of the Hot Wheels behemoths on the arena floor. Meet your favorite drivers and performers.
With the mix of innovative stunts, high-energy performances and interactive fan experiences, this promises to be more than just a show — it’s an immersive event. The debut of Rhinomite adds an extra layer of excitement, while thrilling car-crushing trucks, dinosaurs and jaw-dropping FMX stunts keep the audience fully involved from start to finish. Fans can expect an unforgettable, action-packed experience that celebrates the Hot Wheels legacy and leaves everyone with lasting memories of speed, power and fun.
