THE FORTUNE RX-7: WHEN TUNING BECAME HOLLYWOOD
In 2006, a Veilside creation became the most famous Japanese tuner car in movie history. The Fortune RX-7 from "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift" introduced Veilside's radical design philosophy to hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide. That orange-and-black FD3S, with its completely transformed silhouette, became an instant icon—and Veilside's global recognition exploded overnight.
But Veilside was legendary in Japan long before Hollywood came calling. Founded by Hironao Yokomaku in 1990, the company built its reputation on body kits that didn't just modify cars—they reinvented them. Where other aero companies added lips and wings, Veilside created complete transformations. Their designs were polarizing, dramatic, and unmistakable.
The Fortune series represented Veilside's ultimate vision. Available for the RX-7 FD3S, Nissan 350Z, and Ferrari F360, these kits replaced virtually every body panel. The result was barely recognizable as the original car—wider, lower, more aggressive. The Fortune wasn't a body kit. It was automotive sculpture.
Yokomaku's design philosophy embraced controversy. "If everyone agrees it's beautiful, it's probably boring," he explained. Veilside designs provoked reactions—love or hate, never indifference. This commitment to bold expression attracted customers who wanted their cars to make statements. A Veilside car announced its owner's confidence.
BEYOND BODY KITS: COMPLETE BUILDS
Veilside wasn't just an aero company—they built complete cars. Their facility near Tsukuba Circuit handled everything: engine tuning, suspension setup, interior refinishing, and the paint work that brought their designs to life. A customer could deliver a stock car and receive a complete transformation.
The craftsmanship required for Veilside kits was exceptional. Because their designs replaced entire body sections, fitment had to be perfect—no aftermarket gaps or alignment issues would be tolerated. Each kit required extensive bodywork expertise to install properly. This wasn't bolt-on modification; it was coachbuilding.
Quality came at a price. A complete Fortune kit installation could exceed ¥5,000,000 before paint and engine work. Veilside's customers were serious enthusiasts with serious budgets. The exclusivity was part of the appeal—you wouldn't see another Fortune RX-7 at every car meet.
THE TOKYO DRIFT LEGACY
The movie brought global attention, but it also created challenges. Suddenly everyone wanted the "Tokyo Drift car"—but few understood the cost and complexity involved. Veilside received thousands of inquiries from fans expecting affordable replicas. The reality: creating a screen-accurate Fortune RX-7 requires serious investment.
Several screen-used cars from the film survive. They've become collectors' items, appearing at shows worldwide. Veilside themselves maintain demo vehicles that showcase their work. For fans making the pilgrimage to Tsukuba, seeing a genuine Fortune in person is a memorable experience.
The legacy continues. Veilside still operates, still creates dramatic designs, still builds complete cars. Their recent work includes kits for modern platforms—the new Supra, GT-R R35, and various sports cars receive the Veilside treatment. The philosophy remains: bold design, uncompromising execution, unforgettable presence.