Xiaomi on the hunt for BMW engineers for future electrics. And hires BMW i design chief

After inaugurating its Research and Development Centre in Munich, practically on the doorstep of BMW, Xiaomi has begun a hunt for talent, particularly among BMW's engineers and designers. The latest hire, in order of time, concerns Kai Langer, the head of design for the BMW i, the initials assigned to the German brand's electric cars. Langer was one of the veterans at BMW, having worked within the Bavarian company for more than two decades. But, now, he has decided to take on a new challenge by moving to one of the world's most advanced and emerging technology companies, which is already established in the technology and consumer electronics sector, but is increasingly focusing on the automotive sector. There are, as yet, no details on the tasks assigned to Langer, but it is very likely that he will be in charge of managing the Chinese brand's future electric cars.

Beyond the undeniable technical and technological calibre of Xiaomi cars, their design lacks originality (and that is an understatement). In fact, Xiaomi has a vice of aesthetically 'copying' other cars. The SU7 bears a striking resemblance to the Porsche Taycan, while its YU7 electric suv is inspired (understatement) by the Ferrari Purosangue. with the arrival of Kai Langer, this could change. For the better, and Xiaomi could make lithium-ion cars with an excellent technical basis and a distinctive design.