Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2026-01-28 01:12Core 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][10]. Group 1: 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]. - Tesla offers two different 7-year financing plans with varying down payment requirements, resulting in different annualized rates [2][3]. Group 2: Comparative Analysis of Financing Options - Tesla's financing plans are noted for their flexibility, with lower annualized rates for higher down payments, while other brands have higher rates [3][6]. - Xiaomi's plan requires a minimum down payment of 20%, with an annualized rate of 1% and an effective annualized rate of 1.93% [4]. - Li Auto's financing is categorized by model, with some models offering interest-free periods, while Xpeng's plan applies to all models with a minimum down payment of 15% and an annualized rate of 1.5% [5][6]. Group 3: Market Dynamics and Consumer Behavior - Sales personnel from various brands express differing opinions on the 7-year financing plans, with some recommending shorter terms due to higher interest costs associated with longer loans [7][8]. - The overall market for passenger vehicles has seen a significant decline, with retail sales down 28% year-on-year and wholesale volumes down 35% [9][10]. - Investment firms predict a continued downturn in the Chinese passenger vehicle market, with potential sales declines of 2% to 5% in 2026 [10]. Group 4: Implications of Financing Strategies - The 7-year low-interest financing plans are seen as a strategy to lower the purchase threshold for consumers, but the effectiveness may be limited by high qualification requirements for consumers [9][10]. - Concerns are raised about the long-term implications of extended financing terms, including potential risks of negative equity and the sustainability of demand post-incentive [12].