Ideal Auto Apologizes for Safety Test Misunderstanding, Adjusts i8 Pricing

On August 6, 2025, Ideal Auto, a Beijing-based electric vehicle manufacturer, along with China Automotive Technology and Research Center and Dongfeng Liuzhou Motor Corporation, issued a joint statement addressing a recent collision test involving Ideal Auto's i8 model. The test, which was conducted to validate and enhance the i8's passive safety performance, inadvertently drew negative attention to Dongfeng Liuzhou's Buylong brand. The companies expressed regret for the oversight and pledged to take measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Ideal Auto clarified that the test was not intended to question or imply any issues with the safety or quality of Dongfeng Liuzhou's vehicles. The company acknowledged that the test's execution and subsequent media coverage led to misunderstandings and potential damage to Dongfeng Liuzhou's brand image. Ideal Auto extended its sincere apologies to Dongfeng Liuzhou and its customers for any confusion caused.

China Automotive Technology and Research Center, which conducted the test, also issued an apology. The center admitted that it failed to clearly communicate the test's purpose and the role of Dongfeng Liuzhou's vehicle as a "mobile barrier" to the public. This lack of clarity contributed to the misinterpretation of the test results and the resulting negative publicity for Dongfeng Liuzhou.

Dongfeng Liuzhou, in its response, reiterated its commitment to ethical business practices and product quality. The company emphasized its dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction, stating that it would continue to focus on developing high-quality products and services. Dongfeng Liuzhou also expressed its resolve to combat unfair competition and uphold the principles of honesty and integrity in its operations.

The three companies jointly called for greater self-discipline and ethical standards within the industry. They emphasized the importance of focusing on technological innovation and product quality, urging all stakeholders to work together to create a sustainable and trustworthy automotive ecosystem. The companies pledged to collaborate with industry peers to promote the development of a high-quality, sustainable automotive sector in China.

On August 5, 2025, Ideal Auto announced adjustments to the pricing and configuration of its first pure electric SUV, the i8, just one week after its launch. The company stated that due to low demand for the Pro version and concerns about its value for money, it would standardize the configuration to i8Max. The price was reduced from 34.98 yuan to 33.98 yuan, with an additional 10,000 yuan worth of platinum sound system included. The rear entertainment screen package was available as an optional extra for 10,000 yuan. Existing Ultra version customers would retain their original configuration at the price of 34.98 yuan, while Pro version customers could choose to cancel their orders or upgrade to the new configuration.