Illegal Muscle Cars: The Way Enthusiasts Are Reproducing Banned Classics in China

      Everything Electric APAC via YouTube

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      In light of the extensive discussions about China’s automotive sector, it’s easy to overlook that the industry is still relatively young on a global scale. Cars have not been as prevalent in China for as long as they have in many other countries, and historically, the government’s view on classic cars was that they should be mostly nonexistent. Nonetheless, a group of enthusiasts doesn’t seem to agree, taking it upon themselves to create new vehicles that don’t quite fit the usual mold.

      A video from the YouTube channel Everything Electric APAC explores the intriguing enterprise known as FullGood Motors, based in Beijing. This company originated from a local motorcycle club with over three decades of history. FullGood aimed to introduce a slice of Americana to China’s roads—somewhat akin to Mitsuoka in Japan—though legal constraints have led the company to adopt quite a roundabout approach.

      Typically, importing vehicles into China is quite restricted. There are exceptions for cars that are at least 100 years old, but as explained in a 2024 AutoWeek article, attempting to ship a vintage Mustang to drive on Chinese streets is a significant challenge. Additionally, modifying existing vehicles is largely prohibited, preventing car enthusiasts from transforming their rides into hot rods.

      So, has BYD just created the only LEGAL classic car in China?

      Considering these restrictions, FullGood opted for a different approach. Six years ago, the company collaborated with BYD, the largest automaker in China, to develop a custom body for one of its electric sedan models to resemble a first-generation Corvette. Once completed, FullGood named this creation the Dolphin SS. Although the car has a contemporary interior and a design tailored for a passenger electric vehicle that would not fool true Corvette enthusiasts, it serves as a thoughtful homage, especially in a nation where real classic cars are not allowed.

      However, this endeavor was more of a singular project rather than a scalable process. Since then, FullGood, the motorcycle club-turned-specialty automaker, has started working with the Nanjing government and Jinlong, a company that usually manufactures buses, to bring its nostalgic designs into production.

      And FullGood has big plans. One concept is a modern version of the Volkswagen bus, dubbed the Summer, which makes the ID.Buzz look rather uninspiring. This bus features three side doors and seats that can be moved on rails and swivel, allowing for flexible cabin arrangements. It's reportedly the closest to production and may be available for driving in the upcoming months.

      The very mean FullGood Hot Rod. Everything Electric APAC via YouTube

      FullGood is also refining the Dolphin concept, with a new iteration that includes rear seats and rear-hinged second-row doors. The company’s most ambitious proposal resembles something a '30s gangster might drive, proudly labeled the "Hot Rod." If you visit the LA Auto Show in November, there’s a good chance you might encounter one or more of these vehicles, as FullGood plans to showcase its work there.

      Are these cars flawless masterpieces beyond reproach? Not necessarily, especially since their interiors do little to disguise their modern construction beneath retro appearances. I’m not envious that such vehicles don’t exist where I live. However, it’s incredibly admirable how far this group is willing to go to create cars that embody the designs they long to drive. There is undoubtedly a remarkable passion behind FullGood’s mission, and hopefully, in the coming years, Beijing’s roads will become a bit more vibrant and enjoyable because of it.

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