Chinese blogger jailed for fabricating Xiaomi EV video claims, state media say

A Chinese blogger has been sentenced to 20 months in prison for fabricating false claims about the safety of Xiaomi’s SU7 electric sedan, according to state media reports published on July 17, 2026. The verdict was issued by the Haidian District People's Court, which ruled that the individual, identified as Gao, had fabricated misleading information that harmed the reputation of Xiaomi, a major Chinese technology company. Gao and his team were found guilty of altering the vehicle's components before filming to produce deceptive content. The incident unfolded in late 2024 when they released a crash-test video suggesting that the doors of the SU7 model could not be opened following a collision. The video also claimed that the vehicle’s emergency call system failed to activate and that its central control screen did not illuminate during the test. These allegations gained widespread attention, amassing around three million views on Gao’s video-sharing platform, which has approximately one million followers. According to the Beijing Daily, the court determined that Gao and his associates had secretly modified the car’s auxiliary battery prior to recording the video. They also used footage from a battery that had been damaged by a forklift to mislead viewers. This manipulation was intended to cast doubt on the safety features of Xiaomi’s flagship electric vehicle, potentially influencing public perception and affecting consumer confidence. Xiaomi responded swiftly to the allegations, stating in January 2025 that “a blogger and his accomplices who previously maliciously smeared Xiaomi Auto have been arrested according to law.” The company emphasized its commitment to transparency and accuracy in the automotive sector, particularly as the industry continues to grow rapidly in China. The case reflects broader government efforts to combat false advertising and online misinformation, especially within the highly competitive automobile market. Authorities have intensified their crackdown on deceptive practices since early 2025, aiming to prevent misleading claims from distorting consumer choices and fair competition. Online influencers and platforms have also come under scrutiny, with some facing legal action for spreading unverified information or damaging the reputations of companies. The Haidian District People's Court noted that such actions can undermine trust in the marketplace and harm legitimate businesses. In addition to the prison term, Gao received a fine of 100,000 yuan (approximately US$14,800). While attempts to contact both the court and the blogger were unsuccessful, the ruling underscores the seriousness with which Chinese regulators view the dissemination of false information in the tech and automotive sectors. The case serves as a warning to others who might attempt to manipulate public opinion through misleading content. As the legal proceedings conclude, the focus will likely shift toward how Xiaomi plans to address the damage caused by the fabricated claims. The company may take further steps to reassure consumers about the reliability and safety of its products. Meanwhile, the incident highlights the growing role of social media in shaping public discourse and the increasing pressure on individuals to adhere to ethical standards in content creation.