36氪·2025-11-15 09:07Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution of Autohome, a 20-year-old automotive platform, as it transitions from a media platform to an e-commerce platform, emphasizing the importance of "new retail" in reshaping the automotive industry amidst structural changes like electrification and intelligence [2][3][24]. Group 1: New Retail Concept - The concept of "new retail" has evolved from mere online and offline channel integration to a comprehensive restructuring of the entire industry, driven by AI and O2O [2][3]. - Autohome's entry into e-commerce with the launch of Autohome Mall marks a significant shift, allowing it to partner with 15 brands, including established and emerging players [3][13]. Group 2: Automotive Consumption Changes - The automotive consumption chain has fundamentally changed, with a rise in direct-to-consumer (DTC) models that redefine relationships between brands and users [3][10]. - The traditional retail system has become a structural constraint for manufacturers, making it difficult to understand user needs and leading to inventory issues [14][20]. Group 3: User Experience and Trust - The transition to online purchasing is slow due to the high-value nature of cars, which require trust and real experience [8][10]. - Autohome aims to enhance user experience by integrating content, data, and services, creating a seamless purchasing journey [11][15]. Group 4: E-commerce Platform Features - Autohome Mall is designed to drive user decisions through professional content and real user reviews, facilitating immediate transactions [15][16]. - The platform ensures post-purchase support, addressing issues like vehicle damage or warranty disputes, thus enhancing trust [18][30]. Group 5: Strategic Partnerships - Autohome's collaboration with Haier enhances its service network, allowing for better delivery and customer service through Haier's extensive offline presence [26][29]. - The integration of Haier's resources into Autohome's ecosystem aims to improve the overall purchasing experience, especially in areas lacking traditional dealerships [29][30].