Sales Tracking - In May, the retail sales of passenger cars in China reached 1.93 million units, a year-on-year increase of 13% and a month-on-month increase of 10%. Cumulatively, retail sales for the year reached 8.802 million units, up 9% year-on-year [1] - Wholesale sales for passenger cars in May totaled 2.329 million units, a year-on-year increase of 14% and a month-on-month increase of 6%. Year-to-date wholesale sales reached 10.797 million units, up 12% year-on-year [1] - In May, the cumulative number of new vehicle registrations was 1.7086 million, a year-on-year increase of 12.5%, with new energy vehicles accounting for 911,700 units, up 23.9% year-on-year [1] Market Performance - In May, the CS automotive sector rose by 1.88%, with the CS passenger vehicle index increasing by 1.12%. The CS automotive parts index rose by 2.52%, and the CS motorcycle and others index increased by 1.89% [1] - From the beginning of 2025 to date, the CS automotive sector has increased by 29.05%, outperforming the CSI 300 index by 17.13 percentage points and the Shanghai Composite Index by 16.53 percentage points [1] Cost Tracking - As of the end of May 2025, prices for float glass, aluminum ingots, and zinc ingots decreased by 24%, 3.2%, and 7.6% year-on-year, respectively [2] - The inventory warning index for Chinese automotive dealers was 52.7%, down 5.5 percentage points year-on-year and 7.1 percentage points month-on-month, indicating improved market conditions [2] Industry Dynamics - WeRide announced a strategic partnership with Uber to expand Robotaxi services to 15 new international cities over the next five years, aiming to reshape global mobility [3] - BYD established its European headquarters in Hungary, marking a significant step in its localization strategy [4] - Geely announced a non-binding offer to privatize Zeekr, aiming to acquire all outstanding shares and delist from the NYSE [5] - Geely's Galaxy Star 8 was launched with a price range of 125,800 to 165,800 yuan, featuring advanced design and technology [6] - Nissan announced a significant restructuring plan, including a workforce reduction of approximately 20,000 employees, due to financial difficulties [7] - Audi is planning to sell its design and engineering subsidiary Italdesign as part of cost-cutting measures [8] - XPeng officially entered the Italian market, aiming to capitalize on the country's electric vehicle incentives [9] Government News - Shenzhen established a 7 billion yuan fund to accelerate the integration of AI and embodied robotics technology [25] - Shandong province announced eight new intelligent manufacturing standard application pilot projects to enhance manufacturing capabilities [26]

Core Viewpoint - Japanese automakers are facing significant challenges in the Chinese market, with declining sales and increased competition from electric vehicles, leading to drastic price cuts and structural adjustments [5][6][9]. Group 1: Market Performance - Japanese cars held nearly a quarter of the Chinese market share in 2020, but by 2024, their overall market share has dropped by over 10 percentage points compared to 2020 [4][5]. - Nissan's sales in China for January to April 2023 were 167,600 units, a decline of 24.6% year-on-year, while Honda's sales were 202,000 units, down 28% [6][8]. - The new models from Nissan and Honda, such as the N7 and S7, have seen poor sales performance, with retail numbers of 665 and 373 units respectively in their first month [11]. Group 2: Strategic Adjustments - Nissan announced a global workforce reduction of 20,000 employees by the 2027 fiscal year, representing 15% of its total workforce, and plans to reduce its global factories from 17 to 10 [8]. - Honda has also initiated large-scale layoffs, affecting over a thousand employees, as part of its restructuring efforts [9]. - Toyota's sales in the same period were 530,100 units, a 7.7% increase, but this growth is seen as unsustainable due to heavy discounting on key models [9][10]. Group 3: Consumer Perception and Product Development - Consumers express dissatisfaction with Japanese cars, citing a lack of innovation and technology compared to domestic brands, which are perceived as more aligned with modern preferences [10][14]. - Japanese automakers are attempting to localize production and technology by partnering with Chinese companies like CATL and Huawei to enhance their electric vehicle offerings [15][16]. - Despite efforts to adapt, there is skepticism about the commitment to electric vehicle development, as seen in Honda's recent decision to cut its electric vehicle investment plan [16][17].

Core Insights - The article presents the market capitalization changes of global automotive manufacturers as of June 5, 2025, highlighting significant fluctuations in values across various companies [1]. Group 1: Market Capitalization Changes - Tesla's market capitalization stands at $10,695.2 million, experiencing a decrease of $393.65 million [3]. - Toyota's market capitalization is $2,449.63 million, with a decline of $44.9 million [3]. - BYD's market capitalization is $1,543.04 million, showing a decrease of $2.94 million [3]. - General Motors has a market capitalization of $458.32 million, down by $13.35 million [4]. - Ford's market capitalization is $405.21 million, with an increase of $1.98 million [5]. Group 2: Notable Increases - Xiaomi Automotive shows a slight increase in market capitalization to $1,765.65 million, up by $3.52 million [3]. - Ferrari's market capitalization increased to $857.09 million, up by $9.33 million [3]. - Kia's market capitalization rose to $266.57 million, with an increase of $8.91 million [5]. - VinFast Auto's market capitalization is $81.16 million, increasing by $2.34 million [5]. Group 3: Other Companies - Mercedes-Benz has a market capitalization of $564.6 million, down by $2.72 million [3]. - Honda's market capitalization is $422.41 million, decreasing by $10.52 million [4]. - NISSAN's market capitalization is $86.71 million, down by $1.41 million [5].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant challenges faced by joint venture automotive companies in China, highlighting the decline in market share and the impact of domestic electric vehicle brands on traditional players [3][20][32]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - As of 2024, joint venture automotive companies' market share in China has dropped to 35%, down from over 60% in 2020, primarily due to the rise of electric vehicles [3][4]. - The shift towards electric vehicles is expected to result in over 50% of new car sales in China being electric by 2024, which has eroded the competitive edge of traditional fuel vehicle brands [3][4]. - The decline in sales and profitability has led to significant operational challenges, including extended payment terms and workforce reductions [4][12]. Group 2: Financial Implications - The financial strain on joint venture companies has resulted in a cascading effect on their supply chains and dealership networks, with many dealers facing bankruptcy [11][12]. - By 2024, most joint venture companies have seen their sales drop by at least 50% compared to their peak years, indicating a collapse of the previous pricing structure [12][14]. Group 3: Internal Challenges - The internal culture within joint venture companies has shifted, with increased pressure on employees and a focus on strict attendance and performance metrics [15][29]. - The decision-making processes in joint ventures have been hampered by the need for consensus between foreign and local partners, which has slowed down responses to market changes [20][21]. Group 4: Strategic Responses - Some companies are beginning to adapt by consolidating operations and reducing production capacity in response to shrinking market demand [28]. - There is a growing recognition among joint venture companies of the need to align more closely with local market preferences, leading to increased local input in product development [29][30]. Group 5: Future Outlook - Despite the challenges, some joint venture companies are exploring partnerships with local electric vehicle manufacturers to enhance their competitive positioning [30][31]. - The survival of joint venture companies will depend on their ability to innovate and adapt to the rapidly changing automotive landscape in China [32].

Core Insights - Nissan's new CEO Ivan Espinosa emphasizes the need for optimism and adaptability in a challenging global auto industry environment marked by slowing EV sales, increased competition from China, and new tariffs impacting profits [1][2] Group 1: Industry Challenges - The global auto industry is facing significant challenges, including slowing electric vehicle (EV) sales and heightened competition from Chinese manufacturers [1] - New tariffs are posing additional threats to profit margins within the industry [1] Group 2: Leadership Dynamics - CEO departures in U.S. companies surged by 38% in December, with a record total of 2,221 CEOs stepping down in 2024, the highest since tracking began in 2002 [3] - Espinosa advocates for a modern leadership approach that embraces flexibility and openness to change, contrasting with past leadership styles that were often stubborn and resistant [3] - The current environment necessitates more collaboration among industry leaders, as geopolitical issues and supply chain challenges make it difficult for companies to operate independently [3]

Group 1 - Japanese automakers have recognized the urgency of the crisis in the Chinese market and are accelerating the development of electric vehicles (EVs) tailored for this market, with products expected to launch by 2025 [1][5] - Toyota and Nissan have seen significant order volumes for their EVs, with Toyota's bZ3X achieving approximately 10,000 orders by the end of April, contributing to a 21% year-on-year increase in new car sales [3][4] - The bZ3X is developed in collaboration with Guangzhou Automobile Group and features advanced driving assistance technology, with a delivery volume of around 10,000 units by the end of April [3][4] Group 2 - Price competitiveness is a key factor attracting consumers, with the bZ3X starting at 109,800 RMB, significantly lower than previous models [4] - Nissan's new electric sedan N7 also reached 10,000 orders by mid-May, despite a 16% year-on-year decline in overall new car sales for April [4][5] - Japanese automakers are shifting their development strategies to prioritize local market preferences, with Nissan's N7 featuring AI-optimized comfort and a competitive price of 119,900 RMB [4][5] Group 3 - The competitive landscape in the Chinese EV market is intensifying, with local brands like BYD enhancing their technological capabilities and engaging in aggressive price competition [5] - The total new car sales for the three major Japanese automakers in China are projected to decline by 30% from 2021 to 2024, with market share dropping from 20.6% to 11.2% [5] - Despite the strong performance of the bZ3X, it ranks only 20th among foreign brands in sales compared to local competitors, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Japanese brands [6]

Core Viewpoint - Nissan's CEO Ivan Espinosa emphasized the company's short-term focus on fixing its operational struggles to regain stability [1]. Group 1 - The company is currently prioritizing internal improvements to address its challenges [1]. - Espinosa expressed confidence in the robustness of the company's recovery plan [1].

Core Viewpoint - Japanese automakers are intensifying the development of electric vehicles (EVs) tailored for the Chinese market, with significant sales growth observed in recent months, despite facing fierce competition from local brands [1][5]. Group 1: Sales Performance - The Toyota bZ3X, launched in March, has seen over 10,000 units delivered by late April, contributing to a 21% year-on-year increase in Toyota's new car sales in April, totaling 142,800 units [3][4]. - Nissan's new electric sedan N7, introduced in late April, also reached 10,000 orders by May 15, although Nissan's overall new car sales in April declined by 16% year-on-year [4][5]. - The overall sales of Japanese automakers in China are declining, with total new car sales projected to drop by 30% from 2021 to 2024, with market share decreasing from 20.6% to 11.2% [4][5]. Group 2: Product Development and Features - The bZ3X is developed in collaboration with Guangzhou Automobile Group and features advanced driving assistance technology and fast charging capabilities, with a starting price of 109,800 RMB [3][4]. - Nissan's N7 includes AI-optimized massage seats and a built-in refrigerator, priced from 119,900 RMB, reflecting a shift towards localizing design and manufacturing processes [4][5]. - Honda's EV brand "Yay" faced challenges with its S7 SUV, which had to reduce its price by 60,000 RMB shortly after launch due to consumer feedback and competition [5][6]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Japanese automakers are struggling to keep pace with local competitors like BYD, which are rapidly advancing in EV technology and pricing strategies [4][5]. - The competitive environment in the Chinese market is forcing Japanese companies to adapt their strategies, including the introduction of new models and leveraging local technology partnerships [6].

Core Viewpoint - Nissan is considering selling its headquarters building in Yokohama, Japan, valued at over 100 billion yen, to reduce high operational costs associated with its factories, proposing a "sale and leaseback" arrangement to continue using the facility after the sale [1]. Group 1 - Nissan plans to reduce its global manufacturing footprint by closing seven factories, including two in Japan and several overseas, aiming to cut fixed and variable costs by a total of 500 billion yen compared to the 2024 fiscal year [2]. - The company reported a loss of 670.8 billion yen for the 2024 fiscal year, marking its first loss in four years and the third-highest loss in its history, influenced by U.S. tariff policies [2]. - The workforce reduction will exceed 20,000 employees, with an increase of over 10,000 from previous estimates, as part of the restructuring efforts [2].

Investment Rating - The report provides various investment ratings for Japanese automotive companies, including "Overweight" for Toyota Motor, Suzuki Motor, Yamaha Motor, Isuzu Motors, Denso, Aisin, and Nifco, while "Underweight" is assigned to Nissan Motor and SUBARU [5]. Core Insights - The global auto industry is expected to normalize after overcoming COVID-19 and supply chain issues, with a projected growth rate of approximately 2% CAGR from 2024 [20]. - The report highlights the complexity of the Toyota Group structure, indicating increasing cross-shareholdings among its subsidiaries [7]. - Tariff impacts are noted to be minor in the tire sector, but the competitive environment remains challenging [4]. Coverage Universe & Valuation - Nissan Motor: Underweight, Price: ¥355, Target Price: ¥320, Market Cap: ¥1,318.5 billion, FY24E P/E: NM, ROE: -1.2% [5] - Toyota Motor: Overweight, Price: ¥2,624, Target Price: ¥3,600, Market Cap: ¥41,438.1 billion, FY24E P/E: 6.9, ROE: 13.4% [5] - Mitsubishi Motors: Neutral, Price: ¥432, Target Price: ¥360, Market Cap: ¥631.1 billion, FY24E P/E: 15.4, ROE: 3.7% [5] - Mazda Motor: Neutral, Price: ¥894, Target Price: ¥1,000, Market Cap: ¥564.8 billion, FY24E P/E: 4.5, ROE: 7.3% [5] - Honda Motor: Neutral, Price: ¥1,421, Target Price: ¥1,500, Market Cap: ¥7,500.2 billion, FY24E P/E: 6.4, ROE: 7.5% [5] - Suzuki Motor: Overweight, Price: ¥1,787, Target Price: ¥2,300, Market Cap: ¥3,509.7 billion, FY24E P/E: 8.6, ROE: 14.5% [5] - SUBARU: Underweight, Price: ¥2,625, Target Price: ¥2,500, Market Cap: ¥1,923.9 billion, FY24E P/E: 5.5, ROE: 12.9% [5] - Yamaha Motor: Overweight, Price: ¥1,075, Target Price: ¥1,500, Market Cap: ¥1,103.3 billion, FY24E P/E: 9.7, ROE: 13.3% [5] - Isuzu Motors: Overweight, Price: ¥1,924, Target Price: ¥2,600, Market Cap: ¥1,372.5 billion, FY24E P/E: 9.8, ROE: 9.5% [5] - Denso: Overweight, Price: ¥1,897, Target Price: ¥2,300, Market Cap: ¥5,522.1 billion, FY24E P/E: 13.0, ROE: 8.0% [5] - Aisin: Overweight, Price: ¥1,781, Target Price: ¥2,200, Market Cap: ¥1,440.9 billion, FY24E P/E: 13.4, ROE: 5.2% [5] - Bridgestone: Overweight, Price: ¥6,106, Target Price: ¥6,500, Market Cap: ¥4,357.8 billion, FY24E P/E: 14.7, ROE: 8.0% [5] Earnings Forecast Summary - Toyota's revenue for FY24 is projected at ¥45,095.3 billion, with a YoY growth of 21.4% and a net profit of ¥4,944.9 billion [17]. - Honda's revenue for FY24 is projected at ¥20,428.8 billion, with a YoY growth of 20.8% and a net profit of ¥1,107.2 billion [17]. - Nissan's revenue for FY24 is projected at ¥12,685.7 billion, with a YoY growth of 19.7% and a net profit of ¥426.6 billion [17]. - Suzuki's revenue for FY24 is projected at ¥5,374.3 billion, with a YoY growth of 15.8% and a net profit of ¥267.7 billion [17]. - SUBARU's revenue for FY24 is projected at ¥4,702.9 billion, with a YoY growth of 24.6% and a net profit of ¥385.1 billion [17].