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EV Giants in Social Media Showdown Over Li Auto i8 Rumor
A high-profile dispute has erupted between executives of Nio’s Onvo brand and Li Auto, two leading Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers. The controversy began when rumors circulated online that Onvo had spread misleading information about Li Auto’s forthcoming all-electric SUV, the Li Auto i8. The situation quickly escalated, drawing widespread attention across the automotive community.
How the Controversy Unfolded
On July 24, Li Auto Vice President Liu Jie posted a social media screenshot, raising concerns about a potential smear campaign targeting the soon-to-be-revealed Li Auto i8, a spacious six-seat electric SUV. Liu’s post hinted at so-called "black PR" efforts orchestrated to undermine the i8 by unfairly comparing it to the Onvo L90. In response, Onvo President Shen Fei joined the online conversation, suggesting that any such allegations should be reported to the authorities. The public nature of their exchange, along with Shen's reposting of a blog tying the rumors to a Li Auto internal group, stoked further debate and speculation among EV enthusiasts and industry watchers alike.
Executive Responses and Clarifications
By July 26, Onvo’s Shen Fei addressed the accusations directly on Weibo, China's leading social platform, stating: "It has been confirmed that the rumors did not originate from Onvo. Now that the facts are clear, I believe Liu Jie should publicly apologize to Onvo and all Nio users to resolve the misunderstanding and show true leadership."
The Viral Test Drive Post—and Its Retraction
Much of the controversy stemmed from a user’s viral comment online, claiming to have test-driven both the Li Auto i8 and the Onvo L90. The post painted a negative picture of the i8's ride—describing it as "rocking like a boat"—while praising the Onvo L90 for its stability, spacious cabin, and superior seat comfort. The anonymous user further alleged shortcomings in the i8’s assisted driving capabilities, even suggesting a near-miss on the road due to poor performance.
However, in a twist that changed the narrative, the author publicly retracted the story on July 26. In a post titled "Clarification," the individual admitted to fabricating the entire test drive account. They stated that their motivation was curiosity and a desire to test if "internet water armies" (organized online trolls) were intentionally comparing the two vehicles to instigate conflict. "My plan was merely to bait reactions and delete the post afterward. I did not expect it to spiral into a full-blown dispute between executives and brand communities," the author explained. Identifying as an owner of both a Nio ET7 and a Li Auto L9, the individual emphasized impartial admiration for both automakers, rejecting any suggestion of bias or intent to profit from the uproar.
Innovative Electric SUV Lineup: Li Auto i8 & Onvo L90 Prices and Launch Dates
The timing of this dispute is particularly significant, given both brands’ major product launches. The Li Auto i8 is a large, fully-electric SUV featuring a three-row, six-seat configuration—making it ideal for families seeking versatility, comfort, and next-generation EV technology. The model is competitively priced between 350,000 and 400,000 yuan (approx. $48,200–$55,000 USD) and is now available for pre-order, with its official premiere set for July 29.
On the other side, Onvo’s L90 has also captured attention in the electric vehicle market. Since opening presales on July 10, the L90 has been promoted as a value-focused competitor starting at 279,900 yuan (about $38,500 USD) for the full purchase model, and as low as 193,900 yuan (around $26,700 USD) through their flexible battery leasing program. The L90 is slated for delivery beginning August 1.
Features, Performance, and Market Positioning
Both the Li Auto i8 and the Onvo L90 emphasize cutting-edge EV performance, next-level driver-assistance features, and family-oriented designs. The i8 is expected to feature advanced assisted driving systems, intelligent connectivity, and a luxurious, spacious interior—qualities aimed at challenging established competitors in the premium electric SUV segment. Meanwhile, the Onvo L90 is designed to offer stability, internal space, and comfort, targeting buyers who seek innovative mobility with great value and flexibility.
This recent social media clash, while fueled by misinformation, highlights just how intense the competition has become in China's electric SUV market. Both Li Auto and Onvo are pushing boundaries in terms of design, performance, and technology, all while vying for consumer trust and attention.
Final Thoughts: What This Means for the EV Market
As the dust settles from this controversy, automotive enthusiasts and potential EV buyers are looking forward to experiencing both the Li Auto i8 and Onvo L90 firsthand. This rivalry underscores the high stakes in China's fast-growing electric vehicle segment and demonstrates just how influential online narratives can be in the modern automotive industry. As these SUVs prepare to hit the street, consumers worldwide will be watching closely to see which model truly delivers on innovation, value, and driving experience.
Source: carnewschina
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