Zhong Guo Ji Jin Bao·2026-02-01 13:52Core Viewpoint - The competition landscape in the automotive industry has shifted in January, with Xiaomi emerging as a new leader, while BYD faces significant domestic sales challenges [2][5]. Group 1: BYD's Performance - BYD reported a total sales volume of 210,051 units in January, representing a year-on-year decline of 30.11% and a month-on-month decline of 50.04% [4][7]. - The domestic sales of BYD reached 109,600 units in January, down 53.22% year-on-year and 61.85% month-on-month, indicating a continuous downward trend since October 2025 [7]. - The reduction in the new energy vehicle purchase tax from full exemption to 5% may have significantly impacted BYD's January sales [4][5]. Group 2: Competitors' Performance - Xiaomi's vehicle deliveries exceeded 39,000 units in January, surpassing Leap Motor for the first time, marking it as the monthly sales champion among new car manufacturers [5][11]. - Other companies like Seres, NIO, and Lantu reported significant year-on-year growth in January, with increases of 104.85%, 96.08%, and 31.29% respectively [5]. - Geely's new energy and fuel vehicle sales both grew in January, with 124,252 and 145,900 units sold respectively, showcasing a dual strategy that BYD lacks [7][10]. Group 3: Financial Strategies - Several automakers, including NIO and Xiaomi, have introduced long-term low-interest financing options to stimulate sales amid declining subsidies [17]. - Xiaomi's financing plan offers a starting down payment of 99,900 yuan and monthly payments as low as 1,931 yuan, aiming to attract more customers [17]. - The recent policy changes extending the personal consumption loan subsidy until the end of 2026 may further influence the competitive landscape by easing consumer purchasing pressure [17].