Li Auto is facing a major challenge following the lukewarm reception of its Li i8 all-electric SUV. The company has been inundated with negative comments on social media platforms, marking the second time it has been hit with a wave of public opinion attacks after the launch of the Li Mega MPV.
The company’s legal department took to Weibo to address the issue, stating that a significant number of misleading comments targeting its owners have surfaced online. These comments have not only tarnished the image of Li Auto users but have also disrupted their online and offline lives. The company believes that the organized and intensive nature of these negative comments may be illegal and is gathering evidence to take appropriate action, including complaints to the platforms and legal measures.
The launch of the Li i8 initially faced poor acceptance, prompting Li Auto to relaunch the model and lower its price just one week later. The event inadvertently dragged a truck manufacturer into the controversy, sparking safety concerns and negative comments. However, a joint statement issued by Li Auto, the truck manufacturer, and the China Automotive Engineering Research Institute resolved the matter.
Despite resolving part of the issue, Li Auto continues to face a barrage of negative reviews on social media platforms. Some auto bloggers have suggested that Nio Inc could be behind these actions, although Nio’s assistant vice president of brand and communications denied any involvement. This challenging situation marks the second time Li Auto has encountered such public opinion controversies, with the launch of the Li Mega MPV also facing lukewarm acceptance and negative comments.
As Li Auto navigates through these challenges, it is essential for the company to address the issue through legal channels and protect the rights and interests of its users. By staying true to its commitment to innovation and new energy vehicles, Li Auto can overcome this hurdle and continue to build a strong brand image in the electric vehicle market.
