Beijing – Just weeks after Xiaomi unveiled its highly anticipated second car model, the YU7, at its 15th-anniversary product launch, a shanzhai (counterfeit) version has already been delivered to consumers by a low-speed electric vehicle (LSEV) manufacturer, commonly known as Laotoule (elderly mobility vehicle). This brazen act has sparked debate about intellectual property rights and the state of the automotive industry.
According to a video exposed by blogger Han Lu, the shanzhai Xiaomi YU7 is a near pixel-perfect replica in terms of appearance. Despite the questionable quality of its components, the exterior closely resembles the original, raising eyebrows and concerns within the industry.
The timing of this release, while Xiaomi is still building anticipation for the official YU7 launch, feels like a direct challenge to the established brand. It begs the question: is this clever exploitation of a market gap, or a worrying sign of the industry’s ethical standards?
While many netizens have dismissed the incident as a harmless joke, the fact that LSEV manufacturers are now targeting established automotive brands raises serious concerns.
A Blatant Imitation
A closer look at the shanzhai Xiaomi YU7 reveals the extent of the imitation. While the crude stamping process betrays its low-quality origins, the vehicle’s silhouette is undeniably similar to the Xiaomi SU7. The front-end contours and signature front fascia are almost direct copies. The rear of the vehicle features a pieced-together design, adopting an SUV-like shape.
The taillights are a blatant imitation of the SU7’s continuous design, creating a hybrid of the YU7 and SU7 aesthetics. Netizens have jokingly dubbed it a Frankenstein’s monster of the automotive world, a fitting description for this bizarre creation.
The M logo on the hood further mocks Xiaomi’s branding, highlighting the audacity of the counterfeiters.
The Underlying Concerns
This incident underscores the persistent problem of intellectual property infringement in China. While the government has made efforts to crack down on counterfeiting, the LSEV market remains a haven for such activities.
The low-speed electric vehicle sector has long been plagued by safety concerns, lax regulations, and a lack of quality control. The emergence of shanzhai versions of established brands further exacerbates these issues, potentially misleading consumers and undermining confidence in the industry.
The Road Ahead
The shanzhai Xiaomi YU7 serves as a wake-up call for the automotive industry and policymakers. Stricter enforcement of intellectual property rights, improved regulation of the LSEV sector, and increased consumer awareness are crucial to curbing counterfeiting and ensuring fair competition.
While imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, in this case, it is a blatant violation of intellectual property rights and a threat to the integrity of the automotive industry. Xiaomi and other automakers must take proactive measures to protect their brands and prevent further exploitation by counterfeiters.
References:
- 科技狐. (2025, June 9). 山寨版“小米 YU7 ”来了，雷军都得“傻眼” [Shanzhai Xiaomi YU7 Emerges, Leaving Lei Jun Speechless]. 36Kr. Retrieved from [Insert original article URL here]
Views: 0