1. The Lifan "Mini Cooper" 320
Usually, when one manufacturer succeeds with a car another will try and take that idea and make their version different and better, a la the Ford Mustang and Dodge Challenger. In China, when a company comes to market with a successful car rival automakers will merely make a poor imitation of it. Thus we present the Lifan 320, a car that somehow manages to maintain the original elements of the MINI we knew and loved, and manages to make it horribly and inexcusably terrible.

2. Great Wall Kunna Electric Concept
As if the Great Wall Kunna Electric concept car wasn't cute enough, there's a stuffed Panda in the passenger's seat. Though we don't think they're indicating you should pick up Panda hitchhikers (you shouldn't — they always want to control the radio), the company has embraced the idea that small cars always look odd and it's just easier to design that into the car than out of it.

3. MG TF Police Convertible
Though American undercover cops occasionally tool about in convertibles (think Miami Vice), we can't think of too many convertible, two-seater marked police cars here in the states. Nevertheless, that didn't stop the Chinese company that now owns classic British carmaker MG from making this MG TF Police Car. Though technically next door at the Police & Equipment Show, this hot little cop coupe was a hit and could be seen picking up political dissidents any day now — only one at a time.

4. Chinese Smart Clone - Harley Davidsion Edition
There's nothing special about a Chinese Smart Car clone as there are tons of them made by Shanghuan Auto. This time, however, the company's Kamino corporate rulers have one-upped themselves with the Harley Davidson Edition. That's right, it's a Smart knockoff with the knockoff of a Harley Davidson painted on the side. Genius! It even isn't big enough to hold a Harley — just like the F-150 pickup adorned with similar accoutrements stateside.

5. Souped Up London Taxi
This, technically, isn't a knockoff. Does it look like a Chinese cab? Yes. But Chinese manufacturer Geely has a contract with London Taxi Inc. to build the Black London Taxi. Totally legit. Though most think of the vehicle as a means for someone driving you around, if you need to get there in a real hurry then this TX4 "hot rod" model is the way to go. It has everything a real London cab needs, including a picture of Big Ben in the back. Tally Ho!

6. Huanghai Faster SUV
Though some Chinese companies might be tempted to take advantage of lax intellectual property laws and outright steal the popular design of the Lexus RX series SUV, automaker Huanghai should be congratulated for resisting the urge. Instead of taking the entire car, they merely took the rear 75% of a Lexus RX and grafted on the front 25% of a Pontiac Torrent for their Huanghai Faster SUV. To make it even more interesting, it's powered by a Mitsubishi engine. For reasons that currently elude our understanding, the car is flanked by car models dressed as hot cops. Maybe they just didn't fit in the MG cop car from earlier.

7. Hafei Saibao V
Though the Hafei Saibao V isn't the most original sports sedan (there's more than a touch of Mazda3 and Lancer Ralliart), we have to give them credit for taking all of the sporty visual cues they could think of — from a gigantic spoiler to super sporty wheels — and fit them all on one car. And if that wasn't enough, they also flanked it with not one, not two, but four models dressed for the prom. That's because when you want to sell a car to sporty guys you need as many gowned models as possible.

8. The Off Road BJ
If you think the BAW B60 Jeep — or BJ — looks a lot like an actual Jeep, you'd be correct. Chrysler and BAW worked together back in the day to co-develop this Jeep for non-Civilian use. Of course that development partnership fell through more than a few years ago, but why let a silly thing like trademarks, copyrights and international intellectual property laws get in the way? That may explain why it looks like the BJ has taken on a bit of Hummer and Land Rover DNA on the front fascia — BAW hopes it'll confuse anyone into thinking the other 90% is pure unadulterated Jeep. But, much like the originals, this formerly Military vehicle is ready to find use in the home of a minimally endowed real estate agent.



9. Hafei Minyi Elephant Transporter
As much as we Americans may love the idea of the minivan, the Chinese love the idea of the mini-minivan. But just in case should you think that this Hafei Minyi isn't big enough for you and your family, the company has put a stuffed baby elephant inside the strange little van to simulate the awesome carrying potential of a minivan crossed with a b-segment econo-box. Of course, even a baby elephant is a touch too big for the Minyi, so you can see the poor animal's stuffed behind sticking out the other end in a way we think would probably be a turn off for potential buyers.

10. The Hybrid Chinese Military Jeep

Kissing cousins to the BAW B60 "BJ" Jeep above, this military Jeep has what we'll call an "interesting" camouflage pattern. As opposed to the high-detail of the pixelated multicolor look of US Military vehicles, the pixels here look to be a few inches across. Was it perhaps designed to patrol the Lego cities of the future or play in some "War Games"-like game of Tetris? Despite the questionable paint scheme, the hybrid powertrain's far superior to your average Hummer. No sense sullying the air with more pollutants than necessary in your standard scorched-earth campaign, eh?

[Source/Photos: The Tycho, China Car Times, AutoExpress.co.uk]

Clearly, the lady cops are guarding this vehicle until someone with an understanding of Chinese creative properties litigation arrives. According to The Tycho, this vehicle will come with all the amenities "from DVD-screens to electric chairs," so there will be a way to dispatch of anyone criticizing the vehicle for its heavy influences. [The Tycho]

Of course, many Chinese citizens are already used to being transported this way. On the mainland they call it "dissident style." The driver of this car is clearly going to have the best Chinese prom EVER! Also dig the reverse Hyundai logo. [The Tycho]

Well, the car is allegedly made of carbon-fiber. Though we're not too sure how much time (if any) has been spent refining the aerodynamics in a wind tunnel. Power comes from a 3.5-liter engine, which is pretty impressive, considering that F1 cars only have 2.4-liters. Thing is, while the 2.4 in Ferrari or McLaren racer is a V8 estimated as making around 800 HP, the Geely's 3.5 is a V6 that we estimate as making around 80 HP— ok, maybe a little more than that. We're not saying we'd turn down a chance to take it around a track and play with its 6-speed semi-automatic gearbox, but until it gets a fancy nose piercing like Ferrari's race car, we're not so excited by the GF.
[thetycho]

The company also plans to institute a "credit card" keyless entry system to replace those silly metal keys. Unlike the watch, we've actually seen this technology before (though it may be a step up for the Chinese market). If you want to look this cool you're going to need to purchase the Mercedes-esque BYD F8, as the technology is unavailable on the F6 and other models. Keep building your dream Chairman Wang Chanfu, and then driving us around in them. [The Tycho]

The Opel Flextreme looks like a bird o' prey or something here, don't it? This shot may be the only time we've seen the Flextreme look even remotely "cool."

This is technically happening at the Beijing Police And Equipment show next door to the Beijing Motor Show. The only drawback to this model is that you can't arrest more than one person at a time. But that's a small price to pay for looking so good. [AuotSina via The Tycho]

Multiple part question here. Would you buy a Chinese car? Which one? Why? Why not? Would Geely's King Kong be involved? What about a Chinese-bodied Mazda6 like the FAW B50?

But looking at this abomination, the DNA is obvious — like Lifan's engineering team took a Mini Cooper, cut it in half, slapped a few extra inches on the frame to give room for a second set of full-size doors, then welded the whole thing back together — into a four-door Mini Cooper. We're at a total loss for words here — after one look at this Mini Cooper clone we're wondering whether intellectual property even exists anymore. Then we remember that it's China and oh yeah, it actually doesn't. [The Tycho]

...here, the civilian version takes into consideration the fact they've no longer got an agreement with Chrysler — by dropping a different grille on the front and a somewhat more slab-sided approach to sheet metal — atop what's obviously a derivative of a Jeep Wrangler. It's like looking at the misbegotten offspring resulting from the sexual congress of an LJ Jeep and a midget-sized H1. Oh lord, the horror, the horror. [The Tycho]

Under the Invicta's porthole-punctuated hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four making 250 HP. Presumably, that power would be delivered to the front wheels, but since the 2010 LaCrosse will be riding on GM's Epsilon II platform, that might not be the only possibility. We just recently saw the 2009 Opel Insignia revealed, which is the first Epsilon II car. The Opel is available with all-wheel-drive, so who knows, maybe the Buick will have an AWD option too. Another possibility would be a hybrid model, seeing as the current Chinese-market LaCrosse already has this option. So go ahead and make your jokes about Janet Reno's underwear, we think Buick might just be ready to shed its retiree vibe. Full press release below:

Buick Evolves Global Design Inspiration Into Invicta Show Car

BEIJING - The sleek Buick Invicta show car revealed here in conjunction with Auto China 2008 is Buick's strongest statement yet of its deliberately international plans. The four-door midsize sedan with a coupe-like roofline presents bold direction for Buick's new generation of vehicles in the world's two biggest automotive markets - the United States and China.

Invicta has evolved from Buick concepts such as the 2004 Velite convertible and 2007 Riviera coupe, both of which received accolades for their thoroughly modern adaptation of classic Buick themes. Invicta was designed collaboratively by GM centers of expertise in Warren, Mich. and Shanghai, China. The name, which is Latin for "invincible," returns to Buick after a 45-year hiatus in the United States.

"Buick's global appeal created an opportunity for GM Design Centers to elevate our collaboration to new levels. Using our virtual reality centers in Warren and Shanghai, designers fused the best ideas from both cultures during the development of the Invicta," said Edward T. Welburn, vice president, General Motors Global Design. "The result will set a new design standard for Buick, and it couldn't have been achieved by one studio working in isolation. The Invicta represents another significant design milestone in Buick's history."

Invicta is powered by Buick's first direct injection turbocharged engine, a four-cylinder powerplant that produces 250 horsepower (186 kW) and 220 lb-ft (298 Nm) of torque. The engine is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission for maximum fuel efficiency.

Modern, sleek exterior

Invicta's designers drew inspiration from the Riviera concept. Invicta features modern and sleek proportions with exterior lines that flow uninterrupted around the vehicle. For example, Invicta's cat-eye headlamps transition into the Buick heritage-inspired sweepspear design cue, which flows seamlessly along the body sides and merges into the taillamps. Similarly, one can trace the top of the headlamp casing to the roofline and the rear of the vehicle without interruptions.

As with Riviera, Invicta features short overhangs with wheels pushed out to the corners for a well-planted stance. The overall appearance is sleek, thanks in part to a sweeping, low roofline and a front windshield that has an aggressive rake.

Up front, the Buick tri-shield is prominently displayed inside the Velite-inspired chrome vertical waterfall grille. Polished aluminum surrounding the headlamps, portholes, around the D-pillar and along the lower side of the vehicle on the lower doors accentuates the overall exterior design. Reminiscent of a number of historic Buick models, Invicta's portholes - three per side - are located on the hood rather than on the front quarter panels.

Invicta's wheelbase and high belt line give the vehicle more substantial proportions while visually reinforcing its premium appearance. Invicta's 20-inch polished aluminum wheels feature a milled Buick tri-shield in the center cap.

To signal its premium attributes while enhancing the vehicle's sleek proportions, Invicta's exterior is draped in a sumptuous AluStone color. Its warm beige tone contains wafer-thin flakes of aluminum that reflect light to emit a liquid gold appearance.

Flowing, crafted interior

The focus and attention to seamless transitions carry over inside Invicta. The doors merge to become one with the instrument panel, which morphs into the center console.

The wrap-around design of the interior and fluid design provide a spacious cabin for all passengers, especially those seated in the back of the vehicle. At nearly 100 cubic feet of interior space, Invicta delivers large-car comfort in a mid-size sedan. The sense of roominess is further accentuated by a full glass roof, which allows all passengers to enjoy the sights, day or night.

Invicta also showcases a high level of interior craftsmanship while creating an environment that is soothing, quiet, comfortable and inviting for all passengers.

The blending of premium materials - such as wood trim and polished aluminum accents, soft aniline leather, supple suede-like material and soothing Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting technology - encase passengers in Buick luxury.

Beyond its sumptuous appearance, Buick created a show car for the senses. Authentic French seam stitching on the soft-touch instrument panel pad, door panels and steering wheel invites touch. Buttons, switches and door pulls are crafted to deliver a tactile quality experience. Soft and soothing Ice Blue ambient LED lighting on the instrument panel, around the central vehicle function controls, along the console and center storage, and in the front footwells provoke visual sophistication. Two discriminating "spotlights" also accent the center point of the front and rear seats.

Buick introduced the Invicta in North America as a production vehicle in 1959. The Invicta show car is the first time the nameplate has appeared on a Buick in China.

BUICK INVICTA SPECIFICATIONS

Vehicle type: four-door, five-passenger luxury show car sedan

Wheelbase (in / mm): 114.5 / 2908

Length (in / mm): 194.2 / 4932

Width (in / mm): 73.8 / 1874

Height (in / mm): 57.7 / 1466

Track (in / mm): 64.4 / 1635 front; 64.5 / 1637 rear

Engine: 2.0L DOHC, direct injection turbo

Horsepower (kW): 250 / 186

Torque (Nm): 220 / 298

Transmission: six-speed automatic

Suspension: MacPherson strut, front; independent, rear

Brakes: four-wheel anti-lock disc

Wheels: polished aluminum, 20 in. x 8.5 in. with milled Buick emblem

Tires: P245/40R20

[via China Car Times]

Look familiar to you? How about after this photo. That's right, it is a dead ringer for the 2008 Subaru WRX STI. Sure, they inverted the grille and don't have the fancy foglight construction. But other than that it's a pretty heavy influence. Actually, the look almost works better on this vehicle. [Auto.sina. via TheTycho]

Creatively referred to as the 850, this sedan is taking aim at the Roewe 550 sedan. So many numbers, so many derivatives. [Auto.Sina] via GMInsideNews]

Of course, there's also the King Kong hatchback, which sadly isn't as amazing as its name, being in reality, a bum basic economy car with derivative styling. Geely is also expected to unveil a whole mess o' hybrid, fuell cell and other alternative energy vehicles. Whereas a few years ago you couldn't have found a less apathetic group of car bloggers, Geely's latest vehicles, like the GT, have us genuinely excited. [via Motor Authority]

The car will be produced as part of a partnership between Volkswagen and Shanghai Auto (SAIC). How much does a premium, stretched Jetta go for? Rumors say about $14,300 USD to start with. Not a bad deal. [AutoHome via The Tycho]

Remember that Brilliance had a little trouble with the German crash test of the BS6, the sedan they hoped to bring to Europe. They're going to have to overcome those obstacles before presenting a full line of autos for the continent. [Dutch AutoWeek Forums via Motor Authority.

Also debuting is the Chinese-refreshened RX-8. Mazda will be showing off the Mazda5 Hydrogen RE Hybrid that includes the hydrogen rotary engine as well. Pardon my lack of excitement for the latter announcements, but that Taiki concept is still etched into my brain. What's with those back wheels?

Mazda to Showcase All-New Mazda6 and Mazda Taiki Concept at the 2008 Beijing Motor Show

Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the European specification of the all-new Mazda6 (known as the all-new Mazda Atenza in Japan) and Mazda Taiki, the fourth concept car in the Nagare design series, at the 2008 Beijing International Motor Show* from Sunday, April 20, through Monday, April 28, 2008.

The new Mazda5 Hydrogen RE Hybrid, equipped with Mazda's hydrogen rotary engine, will be exhibited along with other future environmental and safety technologies to promote Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, Mazda's long-term vision for technology development. Around the world, the Sustainable Zoom-Zoom plan aims to harmonize driving pleasure with environmental and safety performance. Based on this vision, Mazda is committed to working towards a sustainable future that brings continued happiness and excitement to everyone by offering vehicles that "look inviting to drive, are fun to drive, and make you want to drive them again."

Mazda will also debut the freshened Mazda RX-8 ahead of its introduction to the Chinese market. The Mazda MX-5 (known as the Mazda Roadster in Japan) Power Retractable Hard Top will be shown as a reference model. A total of 16 vehicles* from nine model lines will be exhibited on the Mazda stand.

We'll hazard a guess at a V8 power plant delivering BMW 6-series rivaling performance for less than half the price. If it reaches production, expect exports, probably reaching other Asian countries, but possibly, eventually targeting the North American market.

The looks reference other GT cars, we can see a little Pontiac and a little Maserati Gran Turismo for instance, but they're put together in an entirely original way. Check the aggressive wing grille and swoopy taillight surrounds, ever seen anything like those before? [Via Motor Authority]

NEW YORK - Buick took another step to bolster its global design presence with a sneak peek at a luxurious show car it plans to reveal in China at the Beijing Motor Show on April 19. Named Invicta, Buick's show car reflects the way General Motors utilizes design and engineering talent around the world to execute a premium vehicle with international appeal.

The Invicta, which is Latin for "invincible," evolves Buick's global design direction from the Riviera concept introduced last year in Shanghai. The Invicta show car was co-developed by GM design centers in North America and China to meet customers' expectations equally in the world's two largest automotive markets.

"Buick's global appeal created an opportunity for GM Design Centers to elevate our collaboration to new levels. Using our virtual reality centers in Warren, Mich. and Shanghai, designers fused the best ideas from both cultures during the development of the Invicta, " said Edward T. Welburn, vice president, General Motors Global Design. "The result will set a new design standard for Buick, and it couldn't have been achieved by one studio working in isolation. The Invicta represents another significant design milestone in Buick's history."

Invicta draws inspiration from the Riviera concept with a modern and graceful exterior design matched by a sumptuous interior. Invicta pays homage to Buicks of the 1940s through the 1970s with its nostalgic sweepspear design cue, a curved line running the length of the car. The exterior also features Buick's signature vertical chrome waterfall grille and a new look to its portholes. The Invicta interior will share Riviera's ambient lighting feature and lavish design.

Buick returns the Invicta name after a 45-year hiatus. Buick originally introduced the Invicta in North America as a production vehicle from 1959 to 1963. It is the first time the nameplate has appeared on a Buick in China.

About Buick

Buick - the premium, international brand of General Motors - has one of the most storied heritages of any American automobile. After experimental Buick automobiles were built between 1899 and 1903, David Dunbar Buick, a former plumbing inventor/executive, incorporated Buick Motor Co. in Detroit in 1903. The company was moved to Flint, Mich. later that year. William C. Durant, Flint's carriage "king" and a great salesman/promoter, took control of Buick in November 1904. Within four years, Durant made Buick the country's leading automobile producer, and on Buick's success, Durant created General Motors in 1908. Some 40 million Buicks later, GM celebrates its centennial this year while Buick reaches 105 years in North America and nearly 100 years in China. News items suggest that the beginning of Buick's presence in China dates as far back as 1906. Dr. Sun Yatsen, the first provisional president of the Republic of China, appears in a photograph riding in a Buick in 1912, the year he was inaugurated.

Today Buick continues as a premium brand known for high-quality, award-winning automobiles sold in the United States, Canada, China, Taiwan and Israel. Last year, Buick sold more than 535,000 vehicles worldwide. On the strength and popularity of the brand in China, Buick helped General Motors become the first global automotive company to sell one million vehicles there.

Buick nameplates sold in North America include the Enclave luxury crossover and the LaCrosse and Lucerne premium sedans. The Buick lineup in China includes the LaCrosse and Park Avenue premium sedans, Regal upper-medium sedan, Excelle compact car and GL8 and FirstLand executive wagons. The Enclave, which also will make its auto show debut in China at the Beijing Motor Show, will be exported from the United States to China for sale later this year.