Tesla(US:TSLA) Qi Lu Wan Bao·2025-08-11 02:36Core Viewpoint - The case highlights the risks associated with purchasing used cars, particularly those with hidden damages and the importance of transparency in transactions. The seller was found guilty of fraud for concealing critical information about the vehicle's condition, leading to significant financial repercussions for the buyer [1][15][16]. Group 1: Incident Overview - In February 2022, a buyer, Mr. Zhao, purchased a 2019 Tesla Model X with a mileage of 85,000 kilometers for 462,000 yuan, believing it to be in excellent condition [2][6]. - After experiencing multiple mechanical failures within nine months, Mr. Zhao discovered that the vehicle had been declared a total loss by the insurance company due to a severe accident in 2021 [9][10]. Group 2: Seller's Defense - The seller, Mr. Yu, claimed he was not a professional used car dealer and had informed Mr. Zhao about the vehicle's prior damage, arguing that the term "total loss" used by insurance companies did not equate to a significant safety issue [11][12]. - Mr. Yu presented evidence of the vehicle's auction history and argued that the price difference indicated the vehicle's condition was known to the buyer [11][12]. Group 3: Legal Proceedings - The court found that Mr. Yu had intentionally concealed critical information about the vehicle's total loss status, constituting fraud under consumer protection laws [15][16]. - The initial ruling mandated Mr. Yu to refund the purchase price of 462,000 yuan and pay an additional 1,386,000 yuan as punitive damages, totaling three times the purchase price [15][16]. Group 4: Final Judgment - The appellate court upheld the initial ruling, emphasizing that Mr. Yu's actions were not merely an oversight but a deliberate attempt to mislead the buyer regarding the vehicle's true condition [16]. - The court reiterated that the classification of the vehicle as a total loss significantly impacts its market value and safety, which the seller failed to disclose [15][16].