MIIT Summoned Li Auto and Dongfeng Nissan for Talks Over Alleged Online Smear Campaign
[Corporate Regulation] The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) summoned representatives from Li Auto and Dongfeng Nissan for discussions regarding a dispute involving malicious online smear campaigns.
Key Development: Official Intervention Following Marketing Feud
On April 11, Li Xiang, CEO of Li Auto, publicly accused a Japanese automaker of organizing "black PR" teams to disparage Li Auto's i6 and L6 models following the launch of the Dongfeng Nissan NX8. He stated that evidence had been secured and legal accountability would be pursued. On the same day, MIIT convened talks with representatives from both companies; the investigation findings have not yet been released.
Industry Impact: Fierce Competition Draws Regulatory Scrutiny
The incident quickly escalated, sparking widespread industry debate over the intensifying and unhealthy marketing practices among new energy vehicle (NEV) makers. Wang Qian, General Manager of Dongfeng Nissan's NEV Division, responded by affirming the company’s commitment to fair competition and respect for peers. The swift official intervention sends a clear signal that regulators are stepping up oversight of online unfair competition.