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Nissan’s Chinese Venucia brand shows off concept SUV

Not bad at all, though Land Rover might cry plagiarism

Looks like the illegitimate child of Land Rover and Tesla. PHOTO FROM NISSAN

China is such a huge automotive market that global carmakers have had no choice but to form strategic alliances (read: joint ventures) with local companies just to stay competitive in the territory. Japan’s Nissan, for instance, has a partnership with Dongfeng Motor Corporation, which gave birth to the Venucia brand in 2010.

In just eight years, Venucia has already released seven production models—the M50V, the D60, the R50, the R30, the T70, the T90 and the e30. But we’re not discussing any of these vehicles. Instead, we want to aim the spotlight on a concept SUV which the brand unveiled at Auto China 2018 in Beijing. That car is the so-called X.

If you’re thinking Venucia borrowed BMW’s popular designation for its SUV models, that’s nothing compared to the design cues seemingly “inspired” by Land Rover. Just check out the profile. We dare you to stare at the profile without seeing the Range Rover.

It's like Venucia designers simply went to the Land Rover website and 'created' this concept. PHOTO FROM NISSAN

The X looks like a mere design concept for now, as no technical specifications have been officially communicated. Nissan only has this to say about the vehicle:

The X concept car reflects Venucia’s new, advanced design language. Its front fascia, grille and V-shaped logo make a strong visual impact, while the bright taillights reflect luxury and convey a sense of power. In addition, the design of the cabin and the wheels is highly innovative and futuristic.

The part of the design that received the most effort to distinguish it from the Range Rover. PHOTO FROM NISSAN

Are the Chinese still blatantly copying designs from established mainstream brands, or has automotive styling reached a point where it’s now virtually impossible to come up with original lines and curves without inadvertently lifting from existing vehicles?



Vernon B. Sarne

Vernon is the founder and editor-in-chief of VISOR. He has been an automotive journalist since July 1995. He became one by serendipity, walking into the office of a small publishing company and applying for a position he had no idea was for a local car magazine. God has watched over him throughout his humble journey. He writes the ‘Spoiler’ column.



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