Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant depreciation of electric vehicles (EVs) in the second-hand market, leading to financial losses for both car owners and dealers, exacerbated by rapid technological advancements and aggressive pricing strategies in the new car market [6][12][28]. Group 1: Depreciation and Market Dynamics - Tesla Model 3 and Model Y owners are experiencing substantial losses, with depreciation rates reaching 65% over three years for some models, and in extreme cases, vehicles losing up to 70% of their value within a year [7][12]. - The average inventory cycle for second-hand car dealers is reported to be 43 days, with a significant portion of dealers facing longer cycles, indicating a challenging operating environment [9][10]. - The second-hand EV market is characterized by a lack of trust and transparency, with many consumers feeling their rights are not adequately protected due to the rapid depreciation and unclear valuation models [10][28]. Group 2: Technological Impact and Consumer Behavior - Rapid technological advancements in EVs, particularly in battery technology, are causing older models to lose value quickly, with some vehicles depreciating by 40% shortly after new models are released [20][23]. - A survey indicated that 87% of respondents believe the depreciation rate of EVs exceeds their tolerance, leading to 23% of potential buyers abandoning their purchase plans [15][16]. - The introduction of "zero-kilometer second-hand cars" is disrupting the market, as these vehicles are often priced lower than used cars, further driving down the value of traditional second-hand vehicles [30][31]. Group 3: Recommendations for Stakeholders - To address the depreciation crisis, stakeholders suggest implementing equal subsidies for new and second-hand vehicles and eliminating the practice of zero-kilometer second-hand cars, which distort market pricing [30][31]. - Innovations such as AI-based residual value assessment systems and battery rental models are being explored to mitigate depreciation risks and enhance consumer confidence [34]. - Consumers are advised to choose brands that offer official value retention guarantees and to avoid brands with aggressive technological iterations that could lead to rapid depreciation [36][37].

Core Viewpoint - The emergence of "zero-kilometer used cars" in the Chinese automotive market is a response to inventory pressure and sales targets faced by manufacturers and dealers, leading to significant price reductions in the second-hand car market [2][3][24]. Group 1: Definition and Characteristics - "Zero-kilometer used cars" refer to vehicles that have completed registration but have extremely low mileage, often less than 100 kilometers, making them almost new [2][21]. - These vehicles are typically sold by manufacturers directly to used car dealerships, which then resell them to consumers [6][12]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The current market for "zero-kilometer used cars" is driven by a price war and an imbalance in supply and demand, with these cars serving as a "release valve" for manufacturers and dealers to manage excess inventory [3][24]. - The sales volume of "zero-kilometer used cars" is estimated to account for 5%-10% of the total used car market, translating to approximately 1-2 million units based on projected total used car transactions in 2024 [21][24]. Group 3: Sources and Distribution - The sources of "zero-kilometer used cars" include excess inventory from 4S dealerships, vehicles from rental companies, and those produced to exploit subsidy loopholes [14][15]. - Many used car dealers find it challenging to access these vehicles directly from manufacturers, often relying on established relationships or group purchases to acquire them [15][16]. Group 4: Market Impact - The rise of "zero-kilometer used cars" is expected to intensify competition in the used car market, particularly affecting the sales of "quasi-new cars" [27][28]. - The phenomenon may lead to a decline in the perceived value of traditional used cars, as consumers may prefer the nearly new condition of "zero-kilometer used cars" at similar price points [28][29]. Group 5: Regulatory Considerations - Experts suggest that the lack of regulatory measures for "zero-kilometer used cars" could lead to potential market manipulation, and there are calls for improved oversight from government bodies [32][33]. - Recent discussions among industry stakeholders, including the Ministry of Commerce, aim to address the implications of "zero-kilometer used cars" on the market [33].

Core Insights - The report indicates a decline in the supply of used cars, prompting the industry to readjust growth expectations [1] - The impact of replacement subsidies on the used car market remains uncertain, with the duration of the current used car trend difficult to predict [1] - Ongoing price wars for new cars in May and June may suppress the activity in the used car market [1] - The introduction of new models is not leading to a quick influx of older models into the used car market, with actual transactions primarily involving older vehicles [1]