If the competition in China's new energy vehicle market is a war without gunpowder, the recent "atmospheric fuel tank" controversy represents a detonated bomb in this high-stakes battle. The issue resurfaced prominently at the 2025 Chongqing Automotive Forum, where BYD found itself once again under scrutiny over allegations regarding its fuel tank technology.
Industry Leaders Rally Against BYD
The controversy took a dramatic turn when Yang Xueliang, Vice President of Geely Auto, publicly supported Great Wall Motors Chairman Wei Jianjun's two-year-old allegations against BYD. In sharp language, Yang accused regulators of "failing to enforce the law" and demanded a thorough investigation. The criticism gained further momentum when Xiao Yong of GAC Aion joined the fray, forming a three-way alliance against BYD.
The core of the dispute centers on whether certain BYD models use atmospheric fuel tanks that allegedly fail to meet regulatory standards. While BYD has consistently denied these claims, the persistent questioning from competitors has kept the issue alive in industry discussions.
Regulatory Scrutiny Intensifies
The coordinated pressure from three major automakers represents more than just a challenge to BYD's technological claims—it poses significant questions about industry oversight. Market observers are closely watching how regulators will respond to these mounting concerns, particularly as they relate to environmental standards in China's rapidly growing electric vehicle sector.
This controversy highlights the increasingly cutthroat nature of competition in China's EV market, where technological specifications can become battlegrounds for market dominance.
Broader Market Implications
Behind the technical debate lies a fierce battle for market share in the world's largest electric vehicle market. As competition intensifies, even minor technical discrepancies can become strategic leverage for competitors. For BYD, currently one of China's leading EV manufacturers, the outcome of this controversy could significantly impact both its brand reputation and market position.
The development comes at a critical juncture for China's automotive industry, which is undergoing rapid electrification while facing increasing international competition. How this dispute resolves may set important precedents for technical standards enforcement and competitive practices in the sector.