SUV customization has steadily been growing in popularity. Among the many possible modifications, one of the first things many SUV owners do is typically upgrade the wheels. When it comes to wheels, one of the most popular these days is Black Rhino, known for their rugged style and distinctive logo. Unfortunately, their popularity has also fueled a surge in counterfeit copies.
Just last weekend, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) seized over 600 counterfeit Black Rhino Wheels during multiple raids conducted last October 23, 2020. The seized wheels were valued at PhP7,000,0000.
The operation was conducted through simultaneous raids covering nine stores and three warehouses identified by NBI's Special Action Unit. The NBI conducted surveillance operations over several months in response to several reports of accidents attributed to the use of counterfeit Black Rhino Wheels. In many of these incidents, vehicles fitted with the counterfeit wheels encountered catastrophic failures while driving, leading to serious accidents.
TSW Alloy Wheels, USA, owner of the Black Rhino brand, filed complaints against the said sellers in violation of Intellectual Property laws in the Philippines. Multiple search warrants were issued by Branch 24 of the Regional Trial Court of Manila City against sellers of counterfeit Black Rhino wheels located in Makati, Manila, Paranaque, and Quezon City.
TSW cautions the public about the extreme dangers of counterfeit Black Rhino wheels. Counterfeit wheels are of a deeply inferior quality, says TSW, and are incapable of carrying loads for which they are supposedly rated for. This completely renders them particularly dangerous for use on the vehicles they are likely to be installed on. Despite the massive raid, many counterfeit Black Rhino wheels are still circulating in the market.
"TSW values the safety of its customers through rigorous engineering and testing methods to ensure proper wheel load ratings. As such, the prevalance of counterfeit wheels carrying the Black Rhino brand will not be tolerated and violators will be sought after and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," said Terence Schedkter, President of TSW.
Original Black Rhino wheels are distributed by Black Rhino Philippines and authorized sellers. Learn how to spot fakes here.