MG’s new 07 sedan faces plagiarism claims over Porsche Taycan and Xiaomi SU7 designs, forcing a live‑stream shutdown. Learn the full story.
During a highly anticipated live‑stream on June 29, MG abruptly ended the broadcast after a wave of online accusations that its upcoming mid‑size sedan, the MG 07, mimics the styling of the Porsche Taycan and Xiaomi SU7. The backlash, amplified by unblurred test‑drive footage circulating on Chinese streets, forced the company’s senior manager, Chen Cui, to pull the plug on the event.
Why the MG 07 Is Under Fire
Netizens quickly pointed out striking visual similarities between the MG 07’s front fascia, rear lights, and overall silhouette and those of the electric sports sedan Porsche Taycan as well as Xiaomi’s newly unveiled SU7 EV. Images posted on social platforms showed the prototype cruising on public roads, prompting a heated debate about whether the design is a tribute, an evolution, or outright plagiarism.
MG’s Design Narrative
MG officials assert that the 07 is a modern reinterpretation of the brand’s heritage, tracing its aerodynamic cues back to the classic 1962 MGB GT. They argue the low‑slung, “shark‑nose” front end, muscular wheel arches, and dark‑tinted rear glass are meant to convey a fresh, performance‑focused identity rather than a copy of any contemporary EV.
Technical Specs at a Glance
- Dimensions: 4,886 mm (L) × 1,900 mm (W) × 1,478 mm (H) with a 2,825 mm wheelbase.
- Powertrain Options: Pure‑electric BEV with a rear motor delivering 239 hp and a WLTC‑rated range of 610–650 km (CLTC), or a plug‑in hybrid (PHEV) pairing a 1.5 L naturally aspirated gasoline engine (110 hp) with a 203 hp electric motor for an electric‑only range of up to 185 km.
- Advanced Sensors: Integrated LiDAR atop the windshield, dense camera array, millimetre‑wave radar, and ultrasonic sensors enable adaptive cruise, lane‑keeping, automatic parking and highway‑assist features.
- Price Expectation: Ranges between ¥150,000–¥200,000 (US$22,000–$29,500).
Market Context
Despite a strong export record—over 700,000 vehicles sold worldwide each year—MG’s performance in its home market remains modest. In May, domestic sales accounted for just 1.1 % of total volume, with only 17,570 new registrations recorded, bringing the year‑to‑date total to 84,275 units.
Company Response
Before ending the live‑stream, Chen Cui remarked, “We hope to collaborate with Chinese brands to surprise global consumers with fresh aesthetics, new energy, and smart technology.” The statement underscores a broader industry challenge: Chinese automakers are under pressure to move beyond design disputes and focus on genuine innovation.
Industry Perspective on Design Imitation
According to Chinese media outlet Sina, judging plagiarism solely on visual similarity is insufficient. The real test lies in whether a design draws from a brand’s own historical language or merely copies recent trends. When a manufacturer can trace its styling cues back decades, the line between “homage” and “copy” becomes clearer.
What’s Next for the MG 07?
The MG 07 is slated to hit Chinese showrooms later this year, with a wagon variant already rumored. Its success will hinge on real‑world performance, technology reliability, and consumer perception—factors that extend far beyond the social‑media firestorm.
Will the MG 07 overcome the controversy and carve out a niche in the crowded electric sedan segment? Only time—and sales figures—will tell.