It’s not common for automakers – in China or elsewhere -- to sue their own customers. But Tesla has done so successfully in China, where Elon Musk’s company has used the courts and the patronage of a powerful leader to silence critics, reap financial rewards and limit its accountability.

Tesla has sued its own customers and journalists in China for defamation – and won just about every time. Elon Musk's company has pioneered an aggressive legal strategy there.

A report claims that Tesla has sued "at least" six car owners in China over the past four years after complaining about mechanical issues.

Tesla shares can’t stop sliding. The stock sank 6.3% to $328.50 Tuesday and was the day’s worst performer on the Nasdaq 100. It was Tesla’s lowest close since Nov. 15 and its fifth consecutive day of falling.

Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) stock has been in freefall, and that accelerated today. Shares of the electric vehicle (EV) leader are now lower by more than 15% so far this year. As of 1:40 p.m. ET, Tesla shares were down by 5.