Jing Ji Ri Bao·2026-01-17 21:59Core Insights - In 2025, China's automotive industry achieved record production and sales figures, with 34.53 million vehicles produced and 34.40 million sold, marking year-on-year growth of 10.4% and 9.4% respectively, showcasing resilience and vitality in the sector [1] - The year marked a significant shift in the market, with new energy vehicles (NEVs) accounting for over 50% of domestic new car sales, indicating a transition from niche to mainstream [2][3] - The automotive export volume exceeded 7 million units, with NEV exports reaching 2.615 million units, reflecting a robust international market presence [11] New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) as Market Leaders - NEVs accounted for 50.8% of new car sales in 2025, with production and sales figures of 16.626 million and 16.49 million respectively, representing year-on-year growth of 29% and 28.2% [3] - The competitive landscape has shifted, with domestic brands capturing nearly 70% of the passenger car market share, reversing the dominance of joint venture brands [3][4] Technological Advancements and Policy Support - The growth of NEVs is attributed to supportive policies, technological innovations, and a robust supply chain, with over 11.5 million vehicles exchanged under the trade-in program, contributing to over 1.6 trillion yuan in new car sales [5] - Significant advancements in battery technology have led to a 30% reduction in battery costs and a 40% increase in battery lifespan, enhancing product competitiveness [6] Smart Driving Developments - The approval of the first L3-level conditional autonomous driving vehicles marks a pivotal moment in China's smart driving sector, transitioning from technology validation to mass production [7] - The penetration rate of L2-level vehicles with combined auxiliary driving functions reached 64% in the first three quarters of 2025, driven by decreasing costs and increased accessibility [9] Global Expansion and Localization - China's automotive exports reached 7.098 million units in 2025, with a 21.1% year-on-year increase, highlighting the importance of overseas markets as growth drivers [11] - Localization efforts are intensifying, with over 20 Chinese automotive brands establishing manufacturing facilities in Thailand and Brazil, enhancing local production capabilities [12] Market Competition and Regulation - The introduction of compliance guidelines aims to curb price wars and establish a more orderly competitive environment, shifting focus from price competition to quality and service [13] - The automotive industry is transitioning from a phase of scale expansion to one of quality enhancement, necessitating a comprehensive approach to regulate competition and promote sustainable growth [15]