Tesla runs out of imagination and seeks inspiration from a Chinese manufacturer that once ‘copied’ its designs

He Tesla Model Y has proven to be, without a doubt, the most influential electric vehicle of the moment worldwide. This electric SUV achieved a historic milestone in 2023 by becoming the best selling car on the planetsurpassing all its competitors, regardless of their type of engine.

For next year, Tesla plans to release a significant update to the Model Y. Some of these new units have already been sighted driving on Chinese roadswhich has generated great expectations among brand enthusiasts. It is very likely that Tesla will follow a strategy similar to the one used with the Model 3 last year, presenting the new Model Y in a surprise way and without prior notice, both in Europe and in the rest of the world.

Where does Tesla get the ‘inspiration’ for the new Model Y design?

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers have shown great ability to adapt the European tastes to your designs. Taking classic and contemporary models as a reference, Chinese brands have created vehicles that combine European aesthetics with all the technology possible. This strategy has allowed them quickly conquer the European marketoffering attractive alternatives in terms of design, quality and price.

Since its arrival in the Chinese market, Xpeng It has aroused great interest due to its notable resemblance to Tesla, both in design aspects and in the technology incorporated in its vehicles. These similarities have led to inevitable comparisons between the two brands, which even generated legal tensions at the time.

However, it is important to highlight that the Chinese industry also contributes its own identity, fusing traditional elements with innovations, creating unique and original designs. In this sense, Xpeng’s strategy has evolved, and with its international expansion in Europe in general and in Spain in particularseeks to consolidate itself as a global brand, with a presence in design and technology development centers in key locations such as Guangzhou and Shanghai. Since October 8, the new Xiaopeng Huitian operations center, composed of 12 technical areas, drives the digital design that forms the basis of Xpeng’s vehicle architecture.

Recently, the rumors about the next update of the Tesla Model Yknown as the ‘Juniper’ project” have intensified this competitive dynamic. This new model will present a quite innovative design, highlighting a eye-catching LED light bar that runs along the rear of the vehicle, and another LED bar on the front that connects the main headlights.

Although this type of aesthetic elements is a growing trend within the automotive industry, Similarities with Xpeng’s design have generated controversy over possible shared influences.

Competition in the electric vehicle sector is characterized by a continuous exchange of ideas and technological advances, with both Tesla and Xpeng striving to stay ahead. Although there may be elements in common between both brands, each pursues its own objectives and develops its identity in search of capturing the preference of the global consumer, building a unique reputation and contributing its personal stamp to the industry.