Beijing Astech Technology had intended to patent a compact all-electric vehicle for China that happened to look almost exactly like the Mini three-door hatchback. AutoHome.cn is now reporting that the local patent bureau rejected the application.
The patent application was submitted on May 17, 2022, and BMW – which now owns the Mini brand – filed a complaint in mid-summer that year. The company pleaded with the China National Intellectual Property Administration not to approve of the patent due to the relevant rights still belonging to the British marque. CNIPA eventually sided with BMW.
The sketches in the gallery below are what Beijing A.T. had intended to patent. As you can see, everything is copied up to the tank lid shape. The same applies to the bumpers and the door handles. It is unknown what motor the company had intended to use.
