Chery refutes false claims of a physical clash between its executives and a dealer, urging the public to verify facts. Read the full story now.
Chinese automaker Chery Group, the parent company behind the Omoda and Jaecoo brands, has publicly dismissed circulating rumors that senior executives physically confronted a dealer. The company labeled the allegations as baseless and has filed a formal complaint with local law‑enforcement authorities.
Official Statement from Chery
On the evening of June 3, Chery’s legal department released a detailed notice addressing the widespread misinformation spreading across automotive forums, social‑media groups, and short‑video platforms. The statement clarified that claims of a “leadership dispute” or “physical altercation” with a distribution partner are malicious rumors with no factual foundation.
Legal Action Initiated
Chery’s legal team has launched an investigation to trace the origin of the false reports. All evidence related to the dissemination of the defamatory content is being gathered to protect the brand’s reputation. The automaker has reported the case to public security agencies and warned that individuals or accounts responsible for initiating or amplifying the rumor could face criminal charges.
Background of the Rumor
The speculation began on Chinese social networks, where a post alleged that a senior executive of a major carmaker had a heated confrontation with a dealer over inventory issues. Although the original posts did not name any specific company, subsequent discussions singled out Chery as the target. Some industry insiders noted that the alleged dealer was Hengxin Auto, but Chery’s official release deliberately avoided naming any party.
Industry Context: Fighting Fake News
Chery’s decisive response mirrors a broader trend among Chinese automotive manufacturers, which are increasingly relying on legal measures to combat false online narratives. Last month, BYD disclosed that it had pursued multiple lawsuits against bloggers and influencers for defamation, securing compensation exceeding 7.3 million CNY across several cases. In one notable ruling, a blogger was ordered to issue a public apology and pay 2.1 million CNY in damages.
What This Means for Consumers
For buyers and enthusiasts, the key takeaway is to treat unverified claims with caution. Chery urges internet users not to share unconfirmed information and to rely on official communications for accurate updates. By taking legal steps, the company aims to preserve trust in its brands – Omoda and Jaecoo – and ensure that the market remains focused on product quality rather than unfounded controversy.