Summary

Zhang Yazhou, whose parents were injured in a Tesla crash in China, was sued by Tesla for defamation after publicly alleging brake failure. A court ruled against her, ordering her to pay $23,000 and apologize.

Tesla has aggressively sued multiple Chinese customers and journalists for complaints or negative coverage, winning most cases.

The company enjoys strong government backing in China, benefiting from regulatory advantages and court successes.

Tesla’s legal strategy has sparked concerns about consumer rights, corporate influence, and its relationship with U.S. and Chinese authorities.