Core Viewpoint - Li Auto announced a voluntary recall of 11,411 units of its MEGA model due to insufficient corrosion resistance of the coolant, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in ensuring vehicle safety and quality control in the automotive industry [1] Group 1: Company Actions - Li Auto will replace the power batteries and related equipment for the recalled vehicles free of charge [1] - The company is committed to conducting safety inspections and repairs for the affected batch of vehicles to eliminate risks [1] Group 2: Industry Context - The automotive recall system has become a normalized practice in the industry, essential for quality control and consumer safety [1][2] - In the past five years, the average number of annual recalls in China has reached 216, with over 7.59 million vehicles recalled, indicating a trend towards normalization of recalls [2] - International automotive companies, including Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Tesla, have also implemented recalls this year, demonstrating that recalls can enhance product optimization and reflect a mature quality management system [4] Group 3: Challenges and Perceptions - Over half of the recalls in China are driven by regulatory actions rather than voluntary corporate initiatives, revealing a significant challenge in the industry's perception of recalls [4][5] - There exists a cognitive bias among both companies and consumers regarding recalls, with many viewing them as a negative mark rather than a demonstration of corporate responsibility [5] - The normalization of recalls is crucial for the high-quality development of the automotive industry, as it allows companies to address defects that are nearly impossible to avoid entirely [5]

Core Viewpoint - Xiaopeng Motors is facing criticism for allegedly evading recall responsibilities related to steering gear issues in its P7+ model, with unresolved complaints from car owners and a lack of official response from the company [1] Company Summary - Xiaopeng Motors has agreed to replace the steering gear for the first batch of proactive car owners, but due to a shortage of parts, some owners have not yet received replacements [1] - There are reports of steering gear sales for the P7+ model on platforms like Pinduoduo, indicating a market for these parts amid the ongoing issues [1] - The company has not officially responded to the growing demands from car owners for a recall to address the steering gear failures [1] Industry Summary - The rapid growth in the number of electric vehicles is bringing to light various after-sales issues, with some manufacturers showing a passive attitude towards recalls, which is becoming a significant pain point for the industry [1] - Industry experts emphasize that the core purpose of establishing a recall system is to encourage manufacturers to improve product quality, suggesting that companies should view recalls as an opportunity for enhancement rather than a burden [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the ongoing issues with the steering mechanism of the Xiaopeng P7+, including slow replacement processes and a lack of official recall response from the company, raising concerns about consumer safety and corporate responsibility [1][4][6]. Group 1: Issues with Steering Mechanism - Some owners of the Xiaopeng P7+ have reported that while the company has agreed to replace the steering mechanism for the first batch of proactive requesters, the replacement speed is slow due to parts shortages [2][3]. - There are reports of online sales of the Xiaopeng P7+ steering mechanism on platforms like Pinduoduo, indicating a market for replacement parts due to the company's inability to meet demand [2][3]. - Multiple owners have expressed concerns about the company's handling of steering mechanism issues, with some vehicles experiencing failures without prior notification from the company [3][4]. Group 2: Corporate Response and Recall Process - Xiaopeng has not provided a unified explanation or recall notice regarding the steering mechanism issues, despite ongoing complaints from vehicle owners [4][5]. - The company has been criticized for its slow response to potential defects, with legal experts suggesting that the lack of immediate action may violate consumer rights [5][6]. - Industry insiders emphasize the need for Xiaopeng to improve its recall processes and customer communication, as the current approach may harm the brand's reputation [6][7]. Group 3: Industry Context and Recommendations - The article discusses the broader context of the electric vehicle industry, where companies are often focused on innovation and new model releases, sometimes at the expense of after-sales service [6][7]. - Experts recommend that automakers, including Xiaopeng, should view recalls as opportunities to enhance product quality rather than as burdens, advocating for a proactive approach to consumer safety [6][7]. - The need for a robust after-sales service network is highlighted, as many new energy vehicle companies primarily rely on online sales, lacking sufficient physical service points for recalls [6][7].