Byd under the fire of criticism: customers are furious, but what happens?

In a few days, Chinese manufacturer byd was overwhelmed by a wave of dissatisfaction with its customers. Thousands of buyers express their frustration on social networks and specialized platforms, denouncing a lack of transparency and a commercial policy deemed unfair. An episode revealing the tensions that cross the Chinese automotive industry.

Storm at byd: 4,700 complaints filed in one week

The site 12365Auto.coma platform where Chinese consumers file their complaints, has identified more than 4,700 complaints against Byd in a single week. A dizzying figure, compared to the 150 usual weekly complaints.

In question: a surprise announcement of the manufacturer offering free smart driving features on several models in its range. A gesture that might seem positive … except for those who have just bought their vehicle, at a high price, without these additional equipment.

The Ocean and Dynasty series, which bring together models such as the byd Seagull, the Chaser 07, the Byd SealByd Dolphin, Byd Han, Byd Tang, Byd Qin, Byd Song and Byd Yuan, are among the most concerned. Some customers say they have asked in dealerships if it was best to wait before buying. The sellers would have assured them that no major update was planned in the short term.

Two weeks later, they discover that the same models, sold at the same price, are now equipped with new technologies. What nourish a feeling of injustice and the anger of buyers who believe they have been deceived.

A avoidable situation?

Could this crisis of confidence have been avoided? Probably. The problem does not reside in the improvement of vehicles – a common practice in industry – but in communication around these developments. If Byd had anticipated these changes by warning his future customers, many would have chosen to wait before buying. This lack of transparency leaves a bitter taste for those who spent tens of thousands of euros for a vehicle which seems, in a few days, to have lost value.

Some are now claiming compensation, in the form of free upgrades or discounts on the models concerned. A situation reminiscent that experienced by Tesla in 2023when the brand had brutally lowered its prices, triggering a wave of protests and demonstrations in its concessions in China.

The reverse of an ultra-competitive market

Pressure weighs on Chinese manufacturers. The local automotive market is evolving at dazzling speed and, to remain competitive, brands must constantly innovate and adjust their prices, even if it means destabilizing their own customers. In this context, is Byd only the choice?

The free addition of advanced technologies is a way for the company to take the advantage over its competitors – but this type of strategy can also harm its image if buyers have the feeling of being the big losers in the game.

For the moment, Byd remains discreet. The brand simply said that complaints were ” being examined “, Without specifying if she was considering commercial gestures to ease tensions.