Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2026-01-27 23:01Core Viewpoint - The introduction of 7-year low-interest financing plans by various electric vehicle manufacturers aims to stimulate market demand amid a competitive landscape and inventory pressure, but the actual effectiveness and implications of these plans remain to be validated by the market [1][14]. Financing Plans Overview - Major brands like Tesla, Xiaomi, Li Auto, and Xpeng have launched or enhanced 7-year low-interest financing options, extending traditional auto loan periods by 2 to 3 years [1]. - Monthly payments have significantly decreased due to longer loan terms, with Xiaomi's YU7 starting at 2,593 yuan, Xpeng's models at 1,355 yuan, Li Auto at 2,578 yuan, and Tesla's Model 3/Y/Y L at 1,918 yuan [1]. Brand-Specific Financing Details - Tesla offers two different 7-year financing plans with varying down payment requirements, where a lower down payment (around 15%) has an annualized rate of 0.7% and an effective annualized rate of 1.36%, while a higher down payment (around 30%) has a rate of 0.5% and an effective rate of 0.98% [5][6]. - Xiaomi's plan requires a minimum down payment of 20% with an annualized rate of 1% and an effective rate of 1.93% [6]. - Li Auto's financing is categorized by model, with some models offering interest-free payments for the first three years, while others have rates of 2.5% and an effective rate of 4.69% [7]. - Xpeng's plan applies to all models with a minimum down payment of 15% and an annualized rate of 1.5%, resulting in an effective rate of 2.86% [7]. Market Context and Consumer Sentiment - The automotive market is experiencing a decline, with retail sales down 28% year-on-year and wholesale sales down 35% in early January 2026 [13]. - Analysts predict a potential drop in retail sales of 2% for 2026, with more severe declines expected in the first quarter [13]. - Sales personnel from various brands express differing opinions on the 7-year financing plans, with some recommending shorter 5-year plans due to lower interest costs and fewer requirements [10][12]. Financing Model Implications - Li Auto and Xpeng utilize financing leasing models, while Tesla offers personal loans alongside leasing options, which may lead to higher effective rates due to the nature of leasing [9]. - The 7-year low-interest plans are seen as a strategy to lower the purchase threshold for consumers, but the actual impact may be limited by high qualification requirements and the financial profiles of potential buyers [14].