http://www.ceosmack.com/2007/08/28/b...ar-x5-suv-pics

 

I'd be PISSED OFF too!!

The real Bimmer is on the left. The Chinese knockoff is on the right.



China has the potential of having by far the largest economy on the planet.

Automakers are falling all over themselves to open up plants and produce vehicles there.

It's mandatory that any automaker doing business in China must have a Chinese company as an equal or controling partner.

China is still a state run country (the fact it's still communist may or may not matter, but it's still state controlled).

At any time, that state can up the ownership rules of Chinese involvement in any company, or kick out any foreign partner at any time with no real recourse.

So, essentially, we're there catching up their technology so not only can they have better products there, but will have products on par with those of other countries. Big difference is it will be a fraction of the cost.

I think this episode with BMW is barely the opening salvo.



Best quote in the response section (regarding Chinses reputation for safety in their vehicles):

"...if they can make semi-conductors, satellites and artificial black holes i’m sure they can figure out the great mystery of the crumple zone and unlock the puzzle of the air bag."

Once they do.... look out.

 

Speaking as a product designer....

That's just wrong on so many levels, intellectually to everything below.

Irony is there was an article in 'Fast Company' Magazine about China's growing creative class. I guess the 'creativity' was in fictional reporting.

This is really worse than our retro movement....

I can, very very vaguely, see a very very, VERY weak argument that this is just an attempt to keep imports out, but still....I don't know, it's pretty brave (like assinine brave) to actually rool something llike that and their Smart Fortwo clone out.

 

imitation is the sincerest form of flattery?

 

It is until you start losing money from those that flatter you. Plus, there's imitation, and then there's outright copying.

 

Chinas gone from sopying toys..remeber the knock off GI Joes and Transformers and Power Rangers all the way up to CARS..

But hey we only have ourselves to blame..