Core Points - Xiaomi and Lei Jun are currently facing a significant crisis following two fatal accidents involving Xiaomi vehicles, raising serious concerns about vehicle safety and the company's response to public scrutiny [1][3][12] - The public is questioning the technical reliability of Xiaomi's vehicles, particularly why the doors failed to open during emergencies, leading to tragic outcomes [1][8] - Lei Jun's recent comments at the World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference have sparked controversy, as he emphasized resisting online smear campaigns instead of addressing safety concerns directly [3][11] Summary by Sections Safety Concerns - Two fatal accidents involving Xiaomi vehicles have occurred within six months, prompting public outcry regarding the safety features of the cars, particularly the failure of doors to unlock after collisions [1] - The inability of rescue personnel to open the doors during emergencies has led to questions about whether this is a technical failure or something more serious [1][8] Public and Media Reaction - Zhejiang Daily published a critical commentary urging that public safety concerns should not be dismissed as mere black public relations, emphasizing the need for clear communication from companies regarding safety issues [5][8] - The commentary has gained significant traction online, with many netizens expressing support for the call to prioritize public safety over corporate image [5][12] Corporate Image and Leadership - Lei Jun's public persona has been damaged as he faces backlash for his comments that seem to deflect from addressing legitimate safety concerns [3][11] - The expectation for Xiaomi to lead in innovation and safety has increased, contrasting sharply with the company's current challenges in meeting these expectations [24][27] - The shift in public sentiment from support to criticism reflects a broader concern about Xiaomi's commitment to quality and safety in its products [24][27] Industry Context - The automotive industry is under scrutiny for prioritizing speed and market capture over safety, with criticisms directed at companies that rush products to market without adequate testing [14][27] - The competitive landscape in both the smartphone and automotive sectors is intensifying, requiring companies like Xiaomi to balance innovation with consumer safety and satisfaction [27]