虎嗅APP·2025-06-17 10:55Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant shift in the sales of new energy vehicles (NEVs) from first and second-tier cities to lower-tier cities, with sales in third-tier and below cities expected to exceed 5 million units by 2024, up from less than 500,000 units in 2020, capturing nearly half of the market share [3][5][29]. Summary by Sections Popular Models in Lower-tier Cities - The most popular NEVs in lower-tier cities include Wuling Hongguang MINIEV, Geely Galaxy's Xingyuan, and BYD's Seagull and Qin PLUS, contrasting with the preferences in higher-tier cities where Tesla and Xiaomi dominate [5][6][9]. Consumer Preferences and Price Sensitivity - Consumers in lower-tier cities prioritize price over brand, with the average price of the top 10 popular models being 80,600 yuan, significantly lower than the models favored in higher-tier cities, which are priced above 200,000 yuan [9][10][14]. Factors Driving NEV Purchases - The "New Energy Down to the Countryside" policy, along with various subsidies, has significantly boosted NEV sales in lower-tier cities, increasing the market penetration from 25% in 2020 to 33.8% in 2024 [14][24]. Consumer Demographics - Two main consumer groups are identified: young professionals seeking cost-effective micro electric vehicles for commuting, and families looking to take advantage of subsidies for larger NEVs [16][20]. Market Competition and Challenges - Domestic brands like Geely and BYD are leading the charge in lower-tier cities, with over 50% market share in terms of dealership networks. However, challenges remain, including inadequate charging infrastructure and concerns over after-sales service [23][24][27]. Conclusion - As the NEV market in first and second-tier cities becomes saturated, the lower-tier cities present a new growth opportunity for automakers. However, addressing charging infrastructure and after-sales service will be crucial for long-term success [29][30].