Re-Evolution

For a further look at China's cloning industry, launch the gallery



Re-EvolutionChina started its cloning trade in the 1980s, and by the early 90s the creations had evolved from cheap textile knockoffs to more brand-specific goods. Within another decade, cloners would be offering functional duplicates of Intel processors, Viagra tablets and Bosch power tools.



Apple of its EyeThe iPhone is hardly the first Apple product to be copied. Apple's popularity makes it an extremely profitable target. Anything from the basic design to the final product can be appropriated with varying degrees of quality.



Brand AwarenessPopular goods can be duplicated [as in the game system below], or their brand can be attached to a wholly unique product [at top is a cellphone]. The best Chinese clones are reaching levels of quality and innovation superior to the originals.

Sincerest Flattery The Chevy Spark [top left] was first introduced in 1998. In 2003 the Chinese manufacturer Chery Motors came out with the QQ [top right]. It now outsells the Spark in China by 5 to 1. Other automotive inspirations [bottom row, left to right]: the Honda CR-V and the Laibao S-RV; the Mercedes C-class and the Geely Meerie

Clone Home By one estimate, about 70 percent of Korean-branded electronics for sale in China's cities are fakes. Korea is a neighbor, and its products are especially desirable. Not just Korean companies are vulnerable, though. The Telsda SG4500 [left] borrows heavily from Motorola's extremely popular Razr [right].

Read China's iClone by Dan Koeppel

Credits Article: popsci.com