Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-11-24 16:17Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding Xiaomi's automotive safety and design priorities has escalated, triggered by founder Lei Jun's past statement emphasizing aesthetics over safety, leading to public backlash and legal scrutiny [1][3][4]. Group 1: Controversy Origin - Lei Jun's 2024 statement "A car's appearance is the most important" was revisited in November 2025, sparking accusations that Xiaomi prioritizes design over safety [3][4]. - The public's concern is rooted in two fatal accidents involving Xiaomi vehicles, which raised questions about the company's commitment to safety [4][6]. Group 2: Response and Public Perception - Lei Jun attempted to clarify his stance by asserting that safety is fundamental, while aesthetics serve as a product highlight, arguing that both aspects are not mutually exclusive [3][4]. - Despite his efforts, public sentiment remained negative, with consumers expressing distrust towards Xiaomi's safety assurances and corporate responsibility [4][6]. Group 3: Legal and Corporate Accountability - Xiaomi has faced multiple crises, including serious accidents and allegations of misleading advertising regarding vehicle components, which have compounded public distrust [6][8]. - The ongoing legal case regarding the "pothole cover" highlights the potential implications of Lei Jun's social media statements on corporate liability and consumer trust [6][9]. Group 4: Industry Context and Expectations - The automotive industry is undergoing a transformation towards electric and intelligent vehicles, with safety and corporate responsibility becoming paramount for consumer trust [10]. - As Xiaomi leverages its founder's influence for market growth, it must balance this with accountability for product safety and quality to maintain consumer confidence [8][10]. Group 5: Conclusion and Future Implications - The situation illustrates the challenges of high-profile marketing in the automotive sector, where public perception and corporate responsibility must align to avoid backlash [11]. - The resolution of these issues will determine Xiaomi's reputation and market position in the increasingly competitive automotive landscape [11].