Xiaomi’s new YU7 electric SUV has ignited a fresh wave of debate over automotive design originality in China, echoing the earlier controversy surrounding the Xiaomi SU7 sedan.
The discussion gained momentum after former Nio executive Ai Tiecheng called for more “originality” in Chinese car design.
Ironically, the controversy has had an unintended effect—significantly boosting the visibility and popularity of Italian luxury carmaker Ferrari in the Chinese market.
The online frenzy reached new heights when Ferrari China unveiled its Purosangue SUV in a classic “Verde Dora” green shade on Weibo.
Coincidentally, Xiaomi’s YU7 appeared in a very similar emerald tone during its launch, sparking immediate comparisons. This color resemblance prompted Chinese netizens to jokingly nickname the YU7 “Ferrari Mi,” a cheeky follow-up to the SU7’s earlier nickname, “Porsche Mi.”
Although Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun clarified that the YU7’s color was inspired by Colombian emeralds, the Ferrari comparison stuck and quickly went viral across Chinese social media platforms.
In a surprising twist, Ferrari’s Purosangue gained massive online traction, ranking just behind Xiaomi’s SU7 and YU7 in terms of popularity and mentions.
Many social media users even thanked Lei Jun for “bringing Ferrari to the masses,” highlighting how the buzz has inadvertently worked in Ferrari’s favor.
The increased visibility has been especially valuable for Ferrari, which is seeking deeper market penetration in China’s luxury SUV segment.
The conversation has since expanded beyond Xiaomi and Ferrari. Chinese car enthusiasts have drawn comparisons between the Ferrari Purosangue and the Mazda CX-4, and Toyota’s Crown Sport has even earned the unofficial title of “Japanese Ferrari.”
These cross-brand discussions are further fueling the ongoing dialogue around design influence and originality in the global auto industry.
Xiaomi is familiar with such controversies. Its SU7 previously drew design comparisons to the Porsche Taycan. However, despite criticisms, the SU7 achieved strong sales performance, outselling major rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Han, with over 258,000 units delivered to date.
Now, attention shifts to the YU7. Whether the “Ferrari Mi” nickname will enhance its appeal or lead to further scrutiny remains to be seen. Either way, the discussion is keeping both Xiaomi and Ferrari firmly in the automotive spotlight.