CNBC AI News, July 18th – A rare sight on a Chinese highway has sparked online buzz: a vintage European Union-plated car, specifically bearing Czech registration, cruising along the Shandong Expressway. The unusual encounter, captured in a now-viral video, has ignited discussions about automotive regulations, classic vehicles, and China’s growing openness to international travelers.
According to the netizens who filmed the encounter, the vintage vehicle was spotted along the Rongwu Expressway en route to Weihai. What made the sighting even more intriguing was the array of national flags adorning the car, hinting at the driver’s extensive road trip across various countries. The video clip, which quickly gained traction on social media, showcases the vehicle navigating alongside regular traffic.
Netizens have reacted with a mix of amusement and speculation. Some jokingly compared the driver to “Mr. Bean,” while others quipped about mistaking the old car for a low-speed electric vehicle, a common sight in some Chinese cities. A recurring theme in the online commentary revolves around the age of the vehicle, with some suggesting it predates many of the modern cars it shared the highway with. “An EU car on a Chinese highway? Says a lot about the freedom and openness here these days,” one user commented. “Probably older than me, and definitely doesn’t have annual inspections like we do!” another added.
The observed vehicle appears to be a Škoda 1000 MB, a classic model produced in the 1960s, known for its 1.0L four-cylinder engine. This raises questions about its ability to meet contemporary emissions standards.
While the possibility of the vehicle passing a modern Chinese emissions test is slim, Chinese regulations do allow foreign-registered vehicles to operate within the country for short periods. As long as the vehicle obtains the necessary temporary import permits and adheres to China’s motor vehicle safety standards, including mandatory third-party liability insurance, it is permitted to drive on Chinese roads. This requires comprehensive documentation and adherence to specific technical requirements.
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