#USA #Michigan #Oscar Ruelas #Eddie Soler #lowrider

The Legacy of Oscar Ruelas and Eddie Soler in the Lowrider Community

The Automotive Hall of Fame (AHF) has proudly announced its latest honorees for the Distinguished Service Citation 2025: Oscar Ruelas and Eddie Soler. These two iconic figures have played a pivotal role in shaping the lowrider movement, not just as a hobby but as a significant cultural phenomenon that embodies American creativity and expression.

Honoring a Cultural Movement

The announcement was made at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas on November 4, 2025, where the automotive community gathered to celebrate innovations and achievements. In a moment filled with pride and nostalgia, Sarah Cook, the president of AHF, acknowledged the indelible impact of Ruelas and Soler on the lowriding culture. "Their dedication to preserving and uplifting lowriding as an art form has united craftsmanship, culture, and community for decades," Cook remarked.

Oscar Ruelas and Eddie Soler are not only renowned for their contributions to lowriding but also as veterans of the Vietnam War, infusing their military experiences of discipline and resilience into their work. Their shared journey has fostered values of unity, respect, and craftsmanship within the lowrider community, characteristics that have become the bedrock for the clubs and culture they helped develop.

Pioneers of Lowriding

In the late 1950s, Ruelas and Soler co-founded the Dukes Car Club in South Los Angeles, transforming a local hobby into an influential cultural movement. Their efforts laid the groundwork for the rise of lowriding as a symbol of Chicano identity and artistic expression. Later, in 2004, Ruelas established Kustom Oldies, continuing his mission to honor the tradition of classic cars, while Soler launched the Old Memories Car Club in 1978, helping to establish chapters worldwide and mentor a new generation of builders and enthusiasts.

Every vehicle they crafted serves as a testament to their legacy, reflecting the rich history, pride, and heritage of the lowrider community. Their impact transcends mere aesthetics; it celebrates a distinctive cultural narrative that resonates throughout American history.

A Ceremony to Remember

The official presentation of the Distinguished Service Citation will take place at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 20, 2025. This ceremony promises to be a heartfelt tribute to the journeys of Ruelas and Soler, recognizing their lifetime commitment to the art of lowriding and the automotive industry at large.

The Distinguished Service Citation is among the oldest awards given by the Automotive Hall of Fame, honoring those whose exceptional services have significantly advanced the automotive industry and inspired communities across the globe. Ruelas and Soler’s accomplishments stand as a shining example for future generations.

Conclusion

Oscar Ruelas and Eddie Soler's recognition by the Automotive Hall of Fame serves to remind us of the profound influence that craftsmanship, culture, and community have on shaping identities within not just the automotive world but society itself. As the lowrider movement continues to evolve, the contributions of these two legends will undoubtedly inspire future generations to embrace their heritage and creativity in the automotive landscape.