Tesla vs. Zhang Zhou: A Controversial Reputation Dispute Unfolds
Summary:
- Tesla (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. has initiated legal action against Zhang Zhou, following an incident at the Shanghai Auto Show in 2021.
- The case centers around claims of reputational damage due to Zhang’s public protest regarding alleged brake failures in a Tesla vehicle.
- Zhang is seeking a retrial of a court decision mandating her apology and monetary compensation to Tesla.
The legal battle between Tesla (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. and Zhang Zhou, dubbed the "roof rights activist," has escalated as both parties prepare for further court proceedings. On December 19, legal restrictions were imposed on Zhang, limiting her consumption capabilities, as demanded by Tesla following the reputational dispute.
In a recent statement to media, Zhang confirmed that she has sought a retrial from the Shanghai High Court concerning her claims of reputational rights. This legal saga began on April 19, 2021, during the Shanghai Auto Show, where Zhang climbed atop a Tesla vehicle to vocally protest what she described as brake failures. The incident garnered significant public and media attention, turning into a focal point for consumer rights discussions.
In October 2021, Tesla took legal steps by filing a lawsuit against Zhang. The company argued that her actions constituted an infringement on its reputation, resulting in the claim for damages totaling 5 million yuan. After a prolonged four-year legal fight, the Shanghai No. 2 Intermediate People’s Court upheld an initial ruling on July 11, 2025. The verdict deemed Zhang’s actions as harmful to Tesla’s reputation, compelling her to issue a public apology and pay approximately 172,300 yuan in damages.
Further complicating Zhang’s tumultuous relationship with Tesla, she had previously engaged in another legal dispute concerning a sales contract. In September, the Beijing Daxing District People’s Court mandated Tesla to release comprehensive driving data for the vehicle involved in a separate incident. This data, captured half an hour prior to the accident, was deemed crucial for understanding the vehicle’s performance during that timeframe, aligning with the consumers’ right to information.
As the legal proceedings continue, Zhang remains steadfast in her fight. On December 30, she indicated that Tesla has lodged an appeal against the decisions of the second-instance court, with the second trial currently in progress. Both parties are set to confront the implications of the upcoming court results.
This ongoing legal saga underscores the brewing tension between consumer advocacy and corporate reputation management, placing a spotlight on the need for transparency and accountability in the automotive industry. Tesla’s actions raise important questions about how companies handle reputational disputes, particularly in an era where consumer feedback can escalate into high-profile court battles.
As this case evolves, it will be essential to monitor its impact not only on the parties involved but also on the broader landscape of consumer rights in relation to major manufacturers. Observers will undoubtedly keep a close eye on the resolution of this dispute and its ramifications for both Tesla and other automakers striving to balance reputation with consumer relations.
Conclusion: The ongoing legal disputes involving Tesla and its former customer highlight significant challenges in the realm of reputation management and consumer rights. As these cases progress through the legal system, they serve as a reminder of the complex interactions between corporate entities and the individuals who advocate for consumer protections.
