Intensifying Internal Conflict in Chinese Auto Industry... Chancheng Motors Targets Leading BYD

Reported BYD to authorities over suspected pollutants
BYD "Opposes Unfair Competition"

Private automobile manufacturer Changcheng Automobile reported BYD, the world’s leading electric vehicle company, to authorities for 'failing to meet pollutant emission standards.' As the internal competition in the Chinese automobile market intensifies, BYD expressed discomfort, opposing what it called unfair competition.

According to Chinese local media such as Jeiljaegyeong on the 25th, Changcheng Automobile announced in a statement that it reported to the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, the State Administration for Market Regulation, and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology that BYD vehicles are suspected of exceeding pollutant emission standards. The report was made on the 11th of last month.

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

According to the statement, environmental protection authorities conduct preliminary reviews of suspected illegal activities violating relevant laws, regulations, and rules, and may file lawsuits if certain conditions are met in the future. Changcheng Automobile also stated, "We will closely monitor this incident and the progress of its handling."

Primarily selling sports utility vehicles (SUVs), Changcheng Automobile has recently experienced sluggish sales. Last month’s sales totaled 53,800 units, a 46.72% decrease compared to the previous year. Cumulative sales from January to April dropped by 21.67% to 337,300 units. In contrast, BYD’s April sales reached 209,400 units, soaring 94.88% during the same period, and cumulative sales from January to April were 776,600 units, up 96.91%.

BYD has not hidden its displeasure over the report filed by a competitor in the industry. In a subsequent statement, BYD said, "We firmly oppose all forms of unfair competition" and "We reserve the right to take legal action."

It further explained that after verifying the claims made by Changcheng Automobile, test vehicles were deployed, and the China Automotive Center in Tianjin conducted the relevant inspections. BYD emphasized that its vehicles meet national standards in related tests and have passed official certification by authorities.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.