After the BMW X1, China's Zhonghua Looks for Inspiration in the Alfa Romeo Giulietta

We cannot keep up with all the production and concept models that are coming out from China and the design of which either bluntly copies or is directly inspired from a Western automaker's model(s).

Just recently, a Chinese website caught hold of some pictures of a new prototype model from Brilliance Auto's Zhonghua brand.

You don't have to live in Milan to see that the design of the unnamed compact crossover takes its inspiration from the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, be that in the shape of the lights, the hidden rear door handles or the sharp lines on the front and rear fenders.

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Auto China 2012: Brilliance Auto Greater China II Concept and H230 Compact Sedan

The BMW Group's Chinese partner Brilliance Auto displayed three new models at the 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition including an impressive concept for a mid-size sedan called the 'Great China II'.

The Chinese company said the prototype study would spawn a production model within the next two years that will sit atop of its range. The saloon measures close to 5 meters in length and features a gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain.

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Brilliance Reveals All-Electric Concept Study in Shanghai

One of the most interesting concept cars unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show was the all-electric Brilliance EV. BMW Group's Chinese partner said that the EV is equipped with two electric motors and a set of lithium-ion batteries. The first electric motor that produces the equivalent of 30HP allows the EV to travel a distance of 130km or 80 miles with a top speed of 40km/h or 25mph. When the second motor kicks in, the EV's output more than doubles while in this case, it can reach a top speed of 130m/h or 80mph.

Most will have already noticed that the EV's design bears a 'few' similarities with the Volkswagen Space-Up! Concept that was revealed at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Show. But unlike the VW's rear suicide doors, the EV features a set of fancy-pancy electric operated doors that slide outwards. Inside, Brilliance's designers adorned the four-seater EV with a futuristic dashboard and the usual high-tech gizmos.