China is tightening its control over influencers on social media who spread fake accident videos and false information about electric vehicles. In some cases, users have tried to justify drunk driving or reckless behavior by blaming autonomous driving systems, and have also posted misleading reports about malfunctions such as unintended braking or sudden acceleration. These actions have particularly targeted Xiaomi’s electric vehicle division, coinciding with the launch of the Skynomad EREV lineup.

In recent months, Xiaomi has repeatedly identified disinformation campaigns using artificial intelligence, aimed at discrediting its cars and company leadership. In one instance, two users created fake crash test videos to give the impression that Xiaomi vehicles had failed collision tests. In response, police imposed administrative detentions and fines, and the offensive posts were removed.

In June, authorities in Xi’an uncovered a larger operation: three content production agencies and more than ten individuals are accused of mass-producing and publishing AI-generated videos targeting Xiaomi. Several suspects were detained and equipment was confiscated. The company warned that abusing AI to spread disinformation will have consequences, aiming not only to punish offenders but also to prevent similar incidents in the future.

NIO has faced similar challenges. The automaker recently reported the detention of a suspect who used AI to distribute fabricated content about the company through thousands of social media accounts, amassing tens of millions of views. Over the past year, NIO has filed several civil lawsuits for defamation against bloggers and noted a separate wave of attacks on its Onvo brand and battery swap network, which coincided with the launch of new models.

The problem of spreading fake accident videos and staged safety failures is widespread across China’s electric vehicle sector. Authorities have stepped up efforts to combat such materials, some of which are created with AI and aimed at damaging competitors’ reputations in an increasingly competitive market. BYD has also taken legal action and recently won a lawsuit against a blogger for making false claims about its components.

The situation is especially important for Xiaomi, as Skynomad EREV marks the company’s first entry into the extended-range vehicle market, which is becoming increasingly popular in China. The model offers over 300 miles of pure electric range before the gasoline generator kicks in. Since these cars are designed for family use, trust in safety claims could be crucial for a successful launch.

It remains unclear whether these disinformation campaigns are simply trolling or more coordinated efforts, but Xiaomi is determined to hold all those involved in fabrications accountable. NIO’s parallel actions indicate that the issue is structural for all Chinese electric vehicle brands preparing for major market launches.