Zhong Guo Qi Che Bao Wang·2025-05-12 10:05Core Viewpoint - The automotive industry is intensifying efforts to combat black public relations (PR) and malicious online attacks, with several companies offering substantial rewards for information leading to the identification of perpetrators [4][7][10]. Group 1: Company Actions - Deep Blue Automotive has initiated a "defense fund" to collect evidence against malicious attacks, offering rewards up to 5 million yuan for verified information [4][5]. - Avita has reported receiving nearly 200 tips since launching its black PR whistleblower program, with rewards reaching up to 500,000 yuan for verified leads [5][6]. - Several companies, including Seres and NIO, have also announced similar initiatives, with rewards ranging from 10,000 to 500,000 yuan for information on black PR activities [6][8]. Group 2: Industry Trends - The prevalence of black PR in the automotive sector has been increasing, prompting companies to escalate their countermeasures [7][12]. - Historical context shows that companies like BYD have been actively fighting against black PR since 2021, with significant legal actions resulting in court rulings in their favor [7][8]. - The automotive industry is facing challenges from organized black PR campaigns that can severely impact sales and brand reputation, with some companies reporting losses in the billions due to these activities [11][12]. Group 3: Regulatory and Collaborative Efforts - The National Development and Reform Commission has called for a collective effort to address the chaos in the automotive industry, emphasizing the need for a healthy market environment [10][12]. - In 2023, the China Automotive Industry Association, along with 14 companies, launched an initiative to resist the use of online water armies for negative commentary [12]. - Recommendations from experts include strengthening law enforcement against black PR and establishing self-regulatory agreements among industry players to promote fair competition [12].