A Rolls-Royce lookalike caught in China
turns out to be a plagiarized model
Luxury car brands Rolls-Royce and Maybach typically offer vehicles at starting prices of hundreds of thousands of dollars, making them accessible to only a select few. Their lineup predominantly features large sedans and SUVs.
However, a buzz around compact vehicles resembling these high-end brands has emerged recently. These miniature versions were showcased at a recent auto event in Shandong, China, and are reportedly based on small Chinese EVs.
Priced at just about $1,973, this vehicle appears unable to drive on actual roads
Miniature vehicles mimicking the Rolls-Royce Phantom’s and Mercedes-Maybach GLS’s designs were displayed at the event. The actual Rolls-Royce Phantom is priced at around $573,000 in the US, while these scaled-down versions are available for approximately 14,000 yuan (approx. $2,000) in China. However, these models are not road-legal and have not undergone safety testing.
Though primarily intended for display rather than practical use, the distinctive design elements—such as the large chrome grille typical of Rolls-Royce—have captured the attention of both domestic and international enthusiasts. The unique proportions and styling of these compact cars offer a striking resemblance to their luxury counterparts.
Large chrome grill with a dense pattern
Coach door opening method applied
A dense, vertical pattern underscores the grille’s opulence. It features a ‘Y’-shaped emblem reminiscent of the Rolls-Royce logo, though it lacks the iconic ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ emblem. Horizontal box-shaped headlights echo the appearance of the Rolls-Royce Phantom.
However, the headlights appear to be low-cost, with some emitting a blue glow. The design also includes ‘ㄷ’-shaped daytime running lights arranged along the headlights. The bumper is adorned with black trim and garnish, while the side doors open in a coach door style, adding a touch of luxury. Plastic molding is used along the window line.
Small vehicles that copied the Mercedes-Maybach GLS
There is also ambient lighting inside
The vehicle modeled after the Mercedes-Maybach GLS shares the same base as the Phantom but features a distinct front design. It sports Maybach’s large chrome grille instead of the Rolls-Royce square grille. The side headlights have been reshaped for a sharper look, and the bumpers are outfitted with large air intakes and chrome trim.
The vehicle boasts a wide display combining the digital cluster and the center screen. Ambient lighting and circular air vents, reminiscent of those found in Mercedes-Benz models, further enhance the interior.
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