Zhijie Sparks Controversy by Hiring Former Ferrari Designer

[Talent Acquisition] Zhijie Automobile faced industry skepticism and public backlash after prominently announcing the recruitment of a former Ferrari designer.

Key Development: Zhao Changjiang Clarifies Designer's Role, Ending Month-Long Controversy

On June 4, Zhao Changjiang, Executive Vice President of Zhijie Automobile, announced the hiring of a "former chief designer of Ferrari," which immediately drew widespread质疑 from Ferrari China executives, industry peers, and online influencers. On July 9, Zhao shared a work photo with Werner Gruber, confirming that Gruber had served as Ferrari’s Senior Chief Exterior Designer, contributing to models such as the LaFerrari and FXX-K, though he never held the title of "chief designer."

Industry Impact: Misleading Talent Promotion Reveals Brand Anxiety

What should have been a positive talent acquisition turned into a credibility crisis due to inaccurate messaging, highlighting new energy vehicle startups’ tendencies toward excessive marketing and lack of mutual trust within the industry as they strive to build premium brand images.