In a surprise move, Chinese tech giant Xiaomi has recruited famed car designer Chris Bangle to join its fledgling automotive division. Yes, the same Chris Bangle whose controversial “Bangle Butt” rear ends for BMW still spark debate amongst auto enthusiasts today.
Xiaomi Chairman Lei Jun himself revealed that Bangle will support the design team behind the recent Xiaomi SU7 sedan. That inaugural EV effort emerged via a partnership between Xiaomi and state-owned automaker BAIC. Its distinctive, space-efficient shape actually came from Li Tianyuan – the creative force also behind BMW’s polarizing iX electric crossover.
Clearly then, Xiaomi has an affinity for talent unafraid of busting design conventions in the otherwise conservative car space. During his 1992 to 2009 stint heading BMW studios, Bangle challenged norms with creations including the infamous 6 and 7 Series models that sported those namesake curvy rear ends.
Love his work or hate it, Bangle’s impact on automotive aesthetics can’t be denied. And his appetite for bold, boundary-pushing risks likely appeals to Xiaomi’s desires to stand out in the crowded EV field.
As a global tech innovator diving into a new vertical, Xiaomi aims to redefine what an electric car can look, feel and enable. Adding Bangle’s flair for conversation-starting risk-taking further stokes intrigue around the company’s future four-wheeled products.
Between technology and design firepower like this, Xiaomi clearly intends to shake up the Chinese auto landscape. Leveraging Silicon Valley-esque disruption to drive the Middle Kingdom’s EV evolution, they have the ingredients to cook up some fascinating vehicles. So gear up for eye-catching, envelope-pushing creations as this tech-design tag team shifts ambitions into overdrive!
