Xiaomi Car Design: Inspired or Borrowed?

Many users have pointed out the resemblance of these vehicles’ designs to renowned European luxury car brands, particularly Porsche and Ferrari.

The Xiaomi SU7 sedan has been compared to the Porsche Taycan, a high-performance electric car from the German automaker. Meanwhile, the YU7 SUV is said to bear a striking resemblance to the Ferrari Purosangue. Nicknames such as “Mi-shijie” (a blend of Xiaomi and Porsche) and “Fala-mi” (a combination of Ferrari and Xiaomi) have quickly gone viral on social media platforms like Weibo and Xiaohongshu, accompanied by visual comparison images.

However, Xiaomi has not shied away from these comparisons. On the contrary, they embrace them as part of their communication strategy and brand positioning. In a recent interview, Li Tianyuan, the chief designer of Xiaomi Auto, affirmed that their primary goal is not to avoid visual similarities but to create designs that emotionally connect with their users.

He also mentioned that the online discussions have not negatively impacted sales. Instead, they have piqued consumers’ curiosity and drawn more attention to Xiaomi Auto, a rising brand in the highly competitive electric vehicle industry.

Public opinion in China is divided on this matter. One side argues that Xiaomi is borrowing too heavily from established brands, diluting their unique identity. The other side counters that in an industry where design trends can overlap, creating an emotional connection and delivering a superior user experience are the key differentiators.

Delving further into the design philosophy of Xiaomi Auto, Li Tianyuan believes that car-making entails not just shaping a product but also crafting a narrative and leaving an impression on consumers. “Emotional value is the hardest aspect to replicate in the automotive industry,” he says. “A car is more than just a means of transportation; it’s a personal statement and a repository of moments, memories, and emotions.”

“Xiaomi embraces a culture of bold innovation. We are not constrained by conventions, and this freedom fuels our experimentation and creativity. The shift from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles presents a golden opportunity for Chinese automakers to make their mark,” he added.

Li Tianyuan himself is an experienced automotive designer. In 2012, he became the first Chinese designer to join BMW Designworks Shanghai. He has since worked on significant projects for BMW Group brands, including the BMW i electric vehicles, high-performance BMW M cars, MINI, and even Rolls-Royce.

While the debate over the originality of Xiaomi’s designs rages on, one thing is certain: Xiaomi has successfully captured the market’s attention. The real challenge now is to sustain this interest over the long term as the initial curiosity fades and consumers begin to scrutinize the quality, user experience, and actual value proposition of their vehicles.

TH (Tuoitrethudo)