Chinese Luxury Sedan Sparks Controversy with Design Resembling Rolls-Royce and Ford

Hongqi L1 Sedan Design Controversy
Grill Design Resembles Rolls-Royce
Headlights Similar to Ford

Hongqi, a luxury car brand from China often referred to as the “Rolls-Royce of China,” has unveiled its new sedan, the L1. Upon its release, the vehicle stirred up controversy as its front, rear, and side profiles each resembled those of different car brands.

The L1’s design combines elements from the Rolls-Royce grille, headlights reminiscent of the Ford Scorpio, and a rear end inspired by Cadillac. Consumers who viewed the design responded with comments like, “Try to copy a bit more subtly.”

The grille resembles a Rolls-Royce
The lamps are similar to those on a Ford Scorpio

Images of the Hongqi L1 released by the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology were enough to spark controversy. The front end of the L1 features a massive grille with chrome slats and a thick chrome surround, which appeared to be inspired by the grille of the Rolls-Royce. Moreover, the headlights of the Hongqi L1 were strikingly similar to those of the second-generation Ford Scorpio, a blue oval model.

The L1’s headlights feature updated lighting technology and, while positioned slightly higher, overall bear a striking resemblance to the Ford Scorpio’s headlights. The controversial and radical front-end design was completed with a black lower grille and silver accents arranged in a complex pattern.

The rear end is reminiscent of Cadillac sedans
Two hybrid engine options are available

The design controversy surrounding the Hongqi L1 didn’t stop there. The sides of the L1 closely resembled a Rolls-Royce sedan, and the rear end brought to mind a Cadillac sedan. The chrome trim of the tailgate extended between the large taillights and dominated the rear fascia. Additionally, integrated brake lights were visible in the chrome trim at the base of the bumper.

The L1 offers two hybrid engine options integrated with a ternary lithium battery. The base model is equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 engine delivering 389 horsepower (290 kW), while the top-of-the-line model boasts a 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 483 horsepower (360 kW). Both hybrid engines operate in conjunction with an automatic transmission.

An official release date for the L1 is still unknown
It is likely to be launched at the Beijing Motor Show

The Hongqi L1 sedan appears to have various designs of 19-inch wheels. Its overall length and wheelbase measure 5,353mm and 3,260mm, respectively, indicating a significantly long body. The overall height and width were confirmed to be 1,511mm and 1,998mm, respectively.

While Hongqi has not yet announced the official release date for the L1, the sedan will likely be officially launched at the upcoming Beijing Motor Show.