Chinese cars making notable progress
But still, plagiarizing designs?
Controversy over Ford-lookalike pickup truck
The recent growth of the Chinese automobile industry is nothing short of remarkable. Particularly in the electric vehicle sector, China has grown in market size and taken the top spot in brand market share. The perception of Chinese cars as knock-offs is diminishing as their designs establish a certain level of originality.
However, some brands continue to cleverly incorporate designs from foreign companies, walking a thin line between benchmarking and plagiarism. The new pickup truck from BYD, China’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer, is a case in point.
BYD’s midsize pickup truck resembles F-150 Lightning
Recently, pictures of BYD’s midsize pickup truck prototype under development were posted on the spy shot community site New Carscoops. Although previously captured several times with camouflage film on the front and rear, the truck revealed its entire appearance this time. Many are remarking that it bears a striking resemblance to the Ford F-150 Lightning.
The front features D-shaped headlamp boxes and a horizontal lamp connecting them, forming daytime running lights (DRL). It’s essentially the same layout as the F-150 Lightning, with only minor differences in detail. The BYD emblem is prominently placed on the radiator grille, and a color contrast on the lower front bumper skid plate emphasizes its identity.
The rear resembles F-150 Lightning
The interior appears to be original
The F-150 Lightning also strongly echoes in the rear. Like the front, it applies a D-shaped layout and adds integrated details for consistency. However, the BYD lettering embossed on the cargo door and the step-style rear bumper are typical design elements for pickup trucks.
The interior images were also leaked—a 10.25-inch digital cluster and a 15.6-inch center display that can rotate horizontally and catch the eye. A head-up display featuring AR technology supplied by Huawei is planned. The steering wheel has a D-cut at the bottom, adding a sporty image.
Available as PHEV, EV
The expected price range is…?
Meanwhile, BYD’s midsize pickup truck is expected to be released in two specifications: plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and pure electric. The PHEV specification will feature BYD’s DM-i electric hybrid technology. It combines a 1.5-liter turbo engine with a maximum output of 139 horsepower and dual motors that produce a combined 489 horsepower, resulting in a total system output of 615 horsepower.
The electric vehicle aims for a driving range of 1,200 km on a single charge. BYD has previously announced that it plans to unveil the PHEV specification by the end of this year. Industry insiders predict the price to be between 400,000 and 600,000 yuan (approximately $62,000 to $93,000). The electric vehicle specification will be added later.
