Price war in the Chinese automotive market: What tricks the government wants to use to force manufacturers to reduce production
China's car manufacturers are bringing new models to market in ever shorter times. Now the authorities want to tighten the approval of gimmicks such as retractable door handles, voice control and foldable screens - and thus extend product cycles.
The Chinese government is attempting to slow down the rapid introduction of new car models by imposing stricter regulations on their features and safety. Over 100 car manufacturers in China have been releasing new models at a frenetic pace, with 282 new or revised electric and hybrid models launched in the first six months of the year.
The authorities have identified 41 features, including retractable door handles and foldable screens, that will be subject to closer scrutiny, and new models will be required to complete 30,000 test kilometers before being approved. The move aims to improve vehicle safety and reduce the number of new models being released, which has contributed to a cutthroat market with intense price competition.
Written by urgent.news from NZZ Wirtschaft's report — not a translation of it. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.