China home car sales downturn continues, exports retain momentum

Beijing, China - The domestic car market in China has been experiencing a 12-month decline, while exports continue to drive growth for the industry, according to data from the China Passenger Car Association. Passenger vehicle sales fell 28.1% from a year earlier to 1.63 million units in September, marking a worsening trend from the 23.7% decline in August. Meanwhile, annual car exports jumped 73.2% to 923,000 vehicles last month, following a 77.5% increase in August.

In the home market, sales of battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids fell 16.7% from the year before to 1.08 million units, compared to a 10.1% decline in August. The export growth of this segment accelerated to 163.5% from 154.7% in August. Cui Dongshu, secretary-general at CPCA, stated that any curbs on plug-in hybrid exports are unlikely to significantly impact overall new energy vehicle exports, as pure EVs currently dominate the sector.

China and the EU have reached a deal that could reduce Chinese hybrid vehicle exports to the EU by half over four years, though the specifics of volume limits and terms for shipments above quotas remain unclear. The shrinking domestic sales are indicative of a broader economic weakness, with subdued consumer spending and a prolonged property downturn dampening demand.

Regulatory authorities have shifted their focus towards safety and value, proposing rules that would discourage rushed vehicle launches without adequate validation.