Chinese Company Readies Tesla Lookalike EV

China's Youxia Motors Inc. has announced plans for a new electric sedan called the Ranger X. The vehicle, with styling very similar to Tesla's Model S sedan, will offer three different lithium-ion batteries (40kWh, 60kWh and 85kWh) and have a driving range between 137 and 286 miles, according to Youxia.

The Model X's electric motor generates 352 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. Youxia compares the vehicle's technology to that used in the Model S and BMW's i3 electric car. Safety features include lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control.

In addition to its Model S-like profile and front fascia, the Ranger X mimics Tesla's dashboard-mounted infotainment system. Angled toward the driver, the large display screen resembles a smartphone screen.

Youxia is the Chinese name of the 1980s television show Knight Rider that featured a high-performance talking car named Kitt. Youxia's owner, 28-year-old Huang Xiuyuan, is a big fan of the show and included a liquid crystal display in the front bumper that lights up like Kitt.

Youxia plans to begin producing the Ranger X late next year and launch sales in early 2017. Pricing will range from 200,000 to 300,000 yuan ($32,000 to $48,000) in China.

Tesla, which recently launched its own sales in China, hasn't commented on Youxia's copycat styling. Analysts note that China's weak product design laws make it difficult for international companies to challenge design cloning.