At times finding a new model or something of passion outside the mainstream norm is a challenge.  Recently a member of the team discovered something new in the EV category (better known as electrical vehicle).  The car is Arcfox-GT made by BAIC, a 1600+ horsepower supercar without the traditional gasoline motor.  Who would have thought?  Two versions of the beast are available, there is a Street and GT Race Edition.  What is presented here is the street model.  BAIC/Arcfox also incorporates and platform for the SUV enthusiast too.

The replica here we are told is one of the many side project manufacturers in China, this example comes from Fangzhou Model.  The kicker, model and presentation packaging, which is quite substantial equates $99 US shipped.  Yes, we said $99.  Our example arrived with some slight damage to the exterior packaging, a further discounted of $20 was granted.  Total price here $79 US or roughly $106 CND.  It’s a whopping deal for sure!

The exterior is painted a sharp Metallic Light Blue very similar to the NIO EP9.  Additional detailing is aided by the various carbon fibre bits.  We must say each element is executed well as the model will show.  Stepping back the visible cues are quite angler, not the typical smooth surfaces found in many designs today.  So, some may believe it’s not the most attractive car on the lot, we somewhat agree.  But you cannot discount the uniqueness factor.

As for capturing the overall design and essence of the original, Fangzhou Model does a solid job here.  We need to mention the model is made of diecast metal and offers up full 360 access.  I think you now see why we labelled it “whopping”.  As for shutlines and the overall panel gaps, the model once again shows extremely well.  If there was one area for a minor concern, we’d lean to the rear functional spoiler.  In the closed position, the gaps are a little larger than what is presented elsewhere.

The facia on the Arcfox-GT is something out of Star Wars.  We love the fact it is fully executed with perforated metal.  The attention to the lower sections just under the headlights is well above the industry average.

Moving forward, some of the electric components are located inside the front storage area.  The carbon fibre work on the hood is well done, the high-gloss works well with the Light Blue exterior paint.  Once inside you discover some the power plant for the Arcfox-GT.  Two thumbs up to the highly detailed components and the team provide you with appliable “hazardous voltage” warning badging in the rear.  The lower price point model does reveal some basic elements with the appliable hinge work.  Nothing major, and not to mention the open and close feature works exceptionally well.

The rear has some surprises.  First, the small glass feature is accessible.  Inside the area is covered in hard plastic.  Note the supporting strut right side for the glass.

Move down the functional spoiler is nicely covered in the same carbon fibre pattern found in front.  We do admit the action of raising the rear spoiler is quite primitive; however, it works.  And, how many other brands at this price would include a fully functional piece?  Not many if none!

The remainder of the rear section is stellar with the supporting staff of perforated metal grilles and quality materials in use within the taillights.

Stance on the Arcfox-GT is perfect and the accompanying wheels are highly detailed and provide cross-drilled rotors and Black calipers front and back.  Not our most favourite wheel design, we would have approved the multi-spoke style found on the Race Edition car.  As an added bonus, the model offers fully independent suspension at all four corners.  Unexpected at this price point, but we admire the passion!

Inside the Arcfox-GT the interior is accessible via two up-sweep doors.  The functionally is little tricky at first, the key is pull slightly out then upwards.  Inside the interior is a delight for carbon fibre fans, it is loaded with the same type of pattern material found on the exterior side.  Dash and centre console are nicely detailed with the smaller items in focus too.  Doors cards feature a fabric door pull, seats provide stitching on the perimeter with adjustability forward and back and finally, fabric seatbelts are in check too.

We do not see any interior flocking but based on the images we studied this car does receive that attention.  We do like the effort Fangzhou Model added to the lower driver side area, the various pedals and the texture of the lower base material is beautifully executed.

What can we say about the Fangzhou Model Arcfox-GT that hasn’t been said?  At this price point, $99 US the deal is too good to be true or is it?  The team has pushed the limits with the smaller and multi-functional surprises, some that higher priced models or static examples can’t even mimic.

This leads us to question, are we conditioned by the various other mainstream manufacturers that this is the average price for a model today?  Food for thought.  Yes, we do not have all the facts and figures and is this product officially licensed or subsidized by the China government.  We don’t know.  What we do know is a brilliant model can still be executed at an affordable cost.  You just need to do some leg work to find these gems…

With the ever-escalating prices and level of detail today that does not mirror past successes (and this affects many brands) the Arcfox-GT is definitely a breath of fresh air.  We at DiecastSociety.com, and we think most collectors would agree, we don’t mind paying a higher price for examples that provide full access and excellent details inside and out.  However, there are limits…  This product from Fangzhou Model really makes one think, are we getting hosed?  What are your thoughts?  Enjoy the pics!