China Tech Company Fails In Attempt To ‘Steal’ Classic Mini Design For EV

A China-based tech firm called Beijing Estek Technology recently made news through its attempt at copying the iconic classic Mini design. This was brought to a swift end as BMW Group, owners of the famed British brand, objected to the application.

This case involving one of the most iconic British car designs first surfaced back in May last year. At the time, said tech company submitted a patent application to the China State Intellectual Property Office to file a vehicle design that resembled an old classic Mini produced from 1969 to 2001.

Adding to that, it is also distinguished by its hidden door hinges whilst combining cues from older Mini models like the radiator grille, rear lights, and rear licence plate lamp.

Technical data isn’t clear, but Car News China reports that the front wheels are likely driven by a front-mounted electric motor. Patent drawings also show an exposed fuel filler cap, just like the original, but this one might serve as an EV charging port instead.

BMW reportedly got wind of the plans and filed a request in July last year to invalidate the patent application. According to Chinese car news website Autohome, the State Intellectual Property Office announced that it is ruling in favour of the German automaker. This, in turn, gives Beijing Estek Technology three months to respond or protest.

Said office has occasionally sided with other Western automakers whose patented designs had been violated by domestic Chinese firms.