Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD has filed a lawsuit against 37 online influencers, accusing them of spreading false and defamatory content targeting the company’s reputation. The case marks one of the most high-profile defamation suits by a Chinese automaker amid growing concerns about misinformation in the EV sector.
According to the company’s official statement, the individuals named in the lawsuit allegedly posted misleading videos and content on social media platforms, including Weibo, Douyin, and Bilibili. The posts reportedly involved claims related to product quality, business ethics, and corporate conduct, which BYD asserts were entirely baseless.
BYD emphasized that the legal action was taken to protect its brand integrity and to combat the dissemination of misinformation that could influence consumer perception and market behavior. “This is not only a defense of our company, but a stand against the erosion of trust in the industry,” the company noted in its release.
The legal complaints have been filed in Chinese courts, and the company confirmed that each case was supported by digital evidence. BYD’s legal team is reportedly seeking damages and formal public apologies from the influencers involved, signaling a zero-tolerance stance on smear campaigns.
Industry analysts suggest this move could set a precedent for other companies affected by online defamation. As the electric vehicle market continues to expand rapidly, EV makers are increasingly becoming targets of unverified social commentary, sometimes amplified by viral algorithms.
The lawsuit arrives at a time when BYD is asserting itself globally, with record-breaking sales and international expansion plans underway. Legal experts believe this bold legal maneuver reflects the automaker’s intention to protect its global brand image amid heightened scrutiny and competition.
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