Geely: 'It's not a Rolls clone'

The Geely GE limousine that drew criticism for its startling similarity to the Rolls-Royce Phantom when it was unveiled last year is on display in modified form at the Bejing motor show.

The car has been extensively restyled, getting a rounder look, especially at the front end. Inside, it gets two rear seats rather than the single 'throne' arrangement of the original concept.

See thpictures of the new-look Geely GE limousine

A spokesman for Geely said: "Everything about this car is new, from the platform to the styling. It no longer borrows any inspiration from other manufacturers."

The Geely GE prototype was unveiled at last year's Shanghai motor show, painted black and given pride of place on a raised plinth in the middle of Geely’s huge stand. Soon after its launch Rolls-Royce officials announced they were considering legal action.

It made obvious reference to the Rolls in the shape of its cabin, windows and down-sloping rear deck. The 'Grecian temple' grille was also considered close to being a Rolls copy, especially as it was topped by a figure which seemed to draw influence from Rolls-Royce's traditional Spirit of Ecstasy, except that the figure slopes backwards. The figure remains on the current car.

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