Shocking claims reveal misrepresented durability in these vehicles, risk rises
- Replies 33
Finding the right vehicle to suit your lifestyle can often feel overwhelming, especially when reliability and strength are high on the list.
However, recent developments have prompted some to reconsider their options, leaving many in the community with questions about confident choices that were once seen as dependable.
LDV Automotive Australia, operated by Ateco Automotive, is facing serious accusations from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for potentially misleading consumers about the quality and durability of these vehicles.
The heart of the issue lies in the numerous complaints—over 5,000, to be precise—regarding rust and corrosion that surfaced between 2018 and 2024.
The ACCC has taken a firm stance, alleging that LDV's marketing campaigns, which spanned online, TV, radio, and social media platforms, painted a picture of the T60 and G10 models (excluding the eT60 model) as being 'durable and tough,' capable of handling a variety of environments and off-road terrains.
These vehicles were showcased in rugged settings, from sandy beaches to rocky paths, suggesting they were built to withstand such conditions.
One particular promotional claim that has come under scrutiny is the bold statement that 'The T60 is up to any challenge you care to take on—work or play, on-road or off... It turns the toughest tracks into a walk in the park.'
According to the ACCC, this directly contradicts the reality faced by many owners, who have reported rust and corrosion issues within the first five years of ownership—issues that only worsened when the vehicles were used as advertised.
Adding to the controversy is the 10-year anti-corrosion warranty that LDV advertised between 2019 and 2020.
The ACCC alleges that LDV was already aware of the prevalent rust issues in the T60 and G10 models at the time, yet continued to promote this warranty.
The implications of these allegations are significant. Not only does the potential for rust and corrosion diminish the value of the vehicles, but it also means that consumers may have been deprived of the opportunity to make an informed decision—possibly opting for alternative vehicles without such risks.
The ACCC is now seeking justice through the Federal Court, aiming for penalties, declarations, consumer redress, and other orders to hold LDV accountable for what they argue is a breach of Australian consumer law.
In response to these legal proceedings, LDV Australia's general manager, Dinesh Chinnappa, expressed disappointment, 'It is disappointing this process has ended in these legal proceedings,'
'LDV Australia takes its obligations under Australian consumer law seriously, and we look forward to defending the ACCC’s allegations in court.'
With over 60,000 T60 and G10 models sold through LDV's 102 dealerships across Australia between 2018 and 2024, the outcome of this legal battle will be closely watched by many.
It's a stark reminder of the importance of consumer vigilance and the need for transparency in the automotive industry.
As we await the court's decision, current and prospective vehicle owners must stay informed and consider their vehicles' longevity and reliability.
If you're an LDV owner or considering purchasing one of their models, it's worth following this developing story.
Have you encountered similar issues with your vehicle? How has the manufacturer responded to your concerns? Feel free to share your insights that could be invaluable to fellow consumers navigating these waters in the comments below.
However, recent developments have prompted some to reconsider their options, leaving many in the community with questions about confident choices that were once seen as dependable.
LDV Automotive Australia, operated by Ateco Automotive, is facing serious accusations from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) for potentially misleading consumers about the quality and durability of these vehicles.
The heart of the issue lies in the numerous complaints—over 5,000, to be precise—regarding rust and corrosion that surfaced between 2018 and 2024.
The ACCC has taken a firm stance, alleging that LDV's marketing campaigns, which spanned online, TV, radio, and social media platforms, painted a picture of the T60 and G10 models (excluding the eT60 model) as being 'durable and tough,' capable of handling a variety of environments and off-road terrains.
LDV T60 utes and G10 vans accused of being misrepresented for durability due to rust and corrosion issues. Credit: YouTube
These vehicles were showcased in rugged settings, from sandy beaches to rocky paths, suggesting they were built to withstand such conditions.
One particular promotional claim that has come under scrutiny is the bold statement that 'The T60 is up to any challenge you care to take on—work or play, on-road or off... It turns the toughest tracks into a walk in the park.'
According to the ACCC, this directly contradicts the reality faced by many owners, who have reported rust and corrosion issues within the first five years of ownership—issues that only worsened when the vehicles were used as advertised.
Adding to the controversy is the 10-year anti-corrosion warranty that LDV advertised between 2019 and 2020.
The ACCC alleges that LDV was already aware of the prevalent rust issues in the T60 and G10 models at the time, yet continued to promote this warranty.
The implications of these allegations are significant. Not only does the potential for rust and corrosion diminish the value of the vehicles, but it also means that consumers may have been deprived of the opportunity to make an informed decision—possibly opting for alternative vehicles without such risks.
The ACCC is now seeking justice through the Federal Court, aiming for penalties, declarations, consumer redress, and other orders to hold LDV accountable for what they argue is a breach of Australian consumer law.
In response to these legal proceedings, LDV Australia's general manager, Dinesh Chinnappa, expressed disappointment, 'It is disappointing this process has ended in these legal proceedings,'
'LDV Australia takes its obligations under Australian consumer law seriously, and we look forward to defending the ACCC’s allegations in court.'
With over 60,000 T60 and G10 models sold through LDV's 102 dealerships across Australia between 2018 and 2024, the outcome of this legal battle will be closely watched by many.
It's a stark reminder of the importance of consumer vigilance and the need for transparency in the automotive industry.
As we await the court's decision, current and prospective vehicle owners must stay informed and consider their vehicles' longevity and reliability.
If you're an LDV owner or considering purchasing one of their models, it's worth following this developing story.
.png){kind=icon}
