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Can’t Afford a Model S; Here’s the Chinese Knock-Off

(Credit: © Youxia Motors)

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Can’t Afford a Model S; Here’s the Chinese Knock-Off

Youxia X

Youxia X (Credit: © Youxia Motors)

Some people say that the greatest form of flattery is imitation, and in the automotive world, you haven’t officially arrived until a Chinese company rips off your design. Well, we can now say that Tesla has reached this point, as the China-exclusive Youxia X is a near clone of the Model S.

The most obvious hijacking of design features is up front. Just like the Model S, the Youxia X features that gloss-black nose and a triangle-shaped logo that bears a striking resemblance to the Tesla badge. From the profile, the rip-off continues, as the Youxia X has nearly the exact same silhouette as the model S, and its wheels are eerily familiar.

Youxia X

Youxia X (Credit: © Youxia Motors)

Around back, the Youxia X does manage to refrain from directly ripping off Tesla’s design, thanks to its “unique” Y-shaped taillights.

Inside the cabin, the laughable tracing of the Model S’s design returns. The center-mounted touchscreen is identical to that in the model S and the steering wheel is also quite similar.

Looks aren’t the only thing the Youxia X stole from Tesla, as it also copied the three stages of batteries from the Model S lineup. Unlike the Model S, which comes with either a 70 kWh, 85 kWh, or 90 kWh battery, the Youxia X comes with a 40 kWh, 60 kWh, or 85 kWh battery. The 40 kWh battery offers 137 miles of range, the 60 kWh battery bumps the range to 205 miles, and the 85 kWh battery pushes the range to 285 miles.

Youxia X

Youxia X (Credit: © Youxia Motors)

The Youxia X is slated to start production in late 2016 with prices ranging from $47,000 to $63,000 before China’s ¥55,000 ($8,856) EV subsidy.

Given the aggressive nature of Tesla and its boss man, Elon Musk, I am willing to bet that there is already a lawsuit pending against Youxia Motors. However, Given China’s loose copyright laws, a lawsuit will likely do nothing but get this car even more press.

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