In a notable turn of events, the Go Vap District People’s Court in Ho Chi Minh City has postponed a hearing involving renowned singer Duy Manh and automotive giant Mercedes-Benz. The postponement comes at the request of Mercedes, though the company has not publicly clarified the reason behind this delay.
On February 15, 2023, a devastating fire engulfed a luxury sedan owned by Duy Manh while it was parked in an apartment complex in Ho Chi Minh City. The celebrated singer purchased the vehicle for over 5 billion VND in 2020. In the aftermath, the police concluded that the fire stemmed from “an electrical short circuit.” The incident led to the insurance company compensating Duy Manh with 2.9 billion VND.
However, Mercedes-Benz technicians later examined the vehicle and attributed the fire to “rodent activity.” They cited the discovery of rat droppings and debris within the car as evidence. This explanation has drawn skepticism from Duy Manh, who labeled it “unreasonable.” He pointed out that the photographs provided by the technicians showing the rodent droppings were taken 45 days post-incident, during which the car sat at an outdoor parking lot where rats could easily access it.
Feeling dissatisfied with Mercedes’ response, Duy Manh has initiated legal proceedings, seeking 2.5 billion VND from the company—the remaining value of the car, which was lost during the warranty period. He emphasized, “I’m not focused on the money; I just want a satisfactory explanation.”
In contrast, Mercedes-Benz maintains that, due to the payment from the insurance provider, Duy Manh is ineligible to pursue further compensation from the automotive manufacturer. The company asserts that their findings were corroborated by representatives from Duy Manh’s insurance during their examination of the vehicle.
Duy Manh, 50, originally from Hai Phong in northern Vietnam, boasts an impressive musical career. A graduate of the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music, he began performing in cafes and small venues in 1998. Rising to prominence in 2004 with multiple hit songs, he continues to compose, produce, and perform, showcasing his talent at various bars and pubs across Vietnam.
This high-profile case not only highlights consumer trends in the automotive sector but also underscores the importance of manufacturer accountability in product safety. As legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how this situation will influence consumer trust and brand reputation in the retail industry.
