by Automaker Avatr sues blogger over disclosure of aerodynamic data
Blogger Zurich Bei Le Ye published results of independent measurements that significantly differed from the manufacturer’s official data. According to his findings, the electric Avatr 12 has a drag coefficient of 0.281, while the company claimed 0.2175. This information quickly spread on social media, even catching Elon Musk’s attention.
In response, Avatr organized a public demonstration of wind tunnel tests. The tests showed that the claimed figure is only achievable under specific conditions – with cameras instead of mirrors and special wheels. The standard configuration yielded 0.2509, while opening the radiator grille resulted in 0.2743.
This is unbelievable: Elon reposted my tweet, which drew Avatr’s attention. Today they officially invited Musk to repeat the tests.
Legal consequences and conspiracy theories
After the demonstration, the blogger released a video claiming the company used a prototype rather than a production car. Avatr denied these allegations and filed a defamation lawsuit demanding $1.4 million in compensation.
The company expressed suspicions that the incident might be part of “black PR” – a deliberate campaign to discredit competitors in the Chinese auto market. To substantiate these claims, Avatr announced a $694,000 reward for information about possible defamation orchestration.
This story raises important questions about manufacturers’ transparency in disclosing technical specifications and social media’s influence on public opinion. This is particularly relevant for the rapidly growing electric vehicle market, where competition is becoming increasingly fierce.
