EV Industry Legal and Reputational Issues
Coverage of legal disputes, defamation cases, and reputation management involving electric vehicle manufacturers and related online discourse.
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MIIT Invites Media to Monitor Automakers' Payment Terms
The Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has enlisted 20 media organizations as independent supervisors to enforce a new 60-day payment term commitment among 17 major automakers, aiming to protect SME suppliers and promote a healthier EV industry ecosystem.
Zeekr Responds to Overseas Vehicle Lock Controversy
Zeekr has rolled out functional optimizations following user outcry over in-car system restrictions during a cross-border trip to Kazakhstan. The company introduced a 'Cross-Border Protection' unlock portal, an upcoming OTA toggle, and enhanced customer support for international users.
XPeng Recalls 33,473 X9 Vehicles Due to Air Spring Defect
XPeng has initiated its largest recall ever, affecting 33,473 X9 MPVs due to a front air spring airtightness issue that could impact handling. The company will replace the component free of charge starting August 28, 2026.
MIIT Conducts Surprise Inspections at Aion and XPeng Amid Safety and Compliance Scrutiny
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) launched unannounced inspections at GAC Aion and XPeng to assess production consistency and intelligent vehicle safety protocols. The move coincided with XPeng’s recall of over 33,000 X9 units due to potential defects, underscoring growing regulatory pressure on EV makers to uphold quality and safety amid rapid industry expansion.
XPeng Recalls 33,473 X9 Vehicles Over Air Suspension System Defect
XPeng is recalling 33,473 X9 electric vehicles produced between August 2023 and August 2025 due to a manufacturing defect causing front air spring leakage under high heat and humidity. The recall begins August 28, 2026, following months of user complaints and criticism over delayed action.
XPeng Legal Team Wins Appeal Case and Receives RMB 500,000 in Compensation
XPeng Group secured a legal victory in an appeal case against a self-media outlet that published defamatory content during a critical vehicle launch period. The court ordered a public apology and RMB 500,000 in damages, reflecting a broader trend of automakers taking legal action to combat false reporting.
LG Energy Solution Sues EVE Energy in the U.S. Over Cylindrical Battery Patent Infringement
LG Energy Solution has filed a patent lawsuit against EVE Energy in the U.S., targeting its high-rate cylindrical batteries used in power tools. The case, accompanied by an ITC investigation, could lead to import restrictions on EVE’s products in the American market.
Hungary Reopens Review of BYD Investment Case
Hungary’s new government has launched a retrospective review of BYD’s investment amid controversy over former Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó joining the company days after resigning. The probe focuses on potential misuse of public funds, tax incentives, and infrastructure support during the Orbán administration.
XPeng Recalls 33,473 X9 Vehicles Over Front Air Spring Defect
XPeng has issued a recall for 33,473 X9 electric MPVs produced between August 2023 and August 2025 due to potential air leakage in the front air springs under high heat and humidity. The company will replace the affected components free of charge, underscoring the EV industry’s commitment to proactive safety measures.
Li Auto Wins Final Appeal Against 'Dianche Xiaofei' in Commercial Defamation Case
Li Auto has won a final appellate ruling confirming that online auto commentator 'Dianche Xiaofei' committed commercial defamation by spreading false and subjective claims about Li Auto’s AD Max 6.0 intelligent driving system. The court found the content misleading and damaging to market order.
Zeekr Responds to Cross-Border Vehicle Locking Incident
A Zeekr EV owner’s SUV was remotely locked for over 30 hours during a cross-border trip to Kazakhstan, disabling key functions like navigation and fuel access. Despite informing the dealership in advance, the owner received no warning about China-only usage restrictions tied to anti-theft protocols.
Tesla Ordered by U.S. Regulators to Recall Vehicles for Headlight Correction
The U.S. NHTSA has mandated a recall of nearly 20,000 Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles produced between 2017 and 2023 due to headlight brightness exceeding federal safety standards. The issue requires physical repairs at service centers, as it cannot be fixed via software updates.