Mercedes-Benz Vietnam disavows 'the rat is responsible' remark in singer’s car fire controversy

A spokesperson for the luxury carmaker told VnExpress on Tuesday that the statement—allegedly made by a dealership employee—was not authorized or representative of Mercedes-Benz’s position.

The controversy began after Duy Manh reported that his Mercedes-Benz S 450 L, purchased in 2020 for over VND 5 billion (US$192,570), caught fire while parked at an apartment complex in 2023. The engine was off and the car was locked at the time, requiring security staff to forcibly open the hood to put out the fire.

The insurance provider ultimately paid VND 2.9 billion in compensation.

Mercedes-Benz initially stated that the fire appeared to have been caused by rodents. "The fire was the result of rodent activity, based on rat droppings and debris discovered inside the vehicle," it said.

However, a police investigation concluded that the incident was the result of an electrical short circuit.

According to Duy Manh, when he questioned a dealership representative about who would be liable if the fire had spread to the building, the employee responded, "the rat." Upset by the exchange, the singer pursued legal action after failed mediation attempts.

In response, Mercedes-Benz said that a joint inspection—including experts from Vietnam and abroad, the distributor, and the vehicle owner—confirmed the damage was not due to a technical defect, but rather rodent activity.

The spokesperson added that Mercedes-Benz could not disclose further information at this time since the case is in court.

Duy Manh, 50, full name Nguyen Duy Manh, hails from Hai Phong in northern Vietnam.

He graduated from the HCMC Conservatory of Music with a degree in piano. He started performing as a pianist and vocalist at cafés and small venues in 1998 before rising to fame in 2004 with several hit songs.

Now he composes, produces and performs at bars and pubs.