Core Insights - The automotive dealership industry has seen some improvement in rebate issues following calls for shorter rebate cycles and clearer rebate rules, but challenges remain with long rebate cycles and complex policies affecting dealer survival and industry health [2][7]. Rebate Cycle and Policy - A recent survey by the National Federation of Industry and Commerce's Automotive Dealers Chamber revealed that 25 brands have fixed rebate cycles of no more than 30 days, while 15 brands have cycles of no more than 60 days [3]. - For non-fixed rebates, 18 brands have cycles of no more than 30 days, and 16 brands have cycles of no more than 60 days, with only 2 brands exceeding 90 days [3]. - The overall rebate cycle has shortened compared to previous reports, with significant reductions in brands that previously had cycles exceeding 90 and 180 days [4]. Rebate Payment Methods - 12 brands provide rebates in cash or vehicle accounts with no withdrawal fees, while 28 brands offer a mix of vehicle accounts and cash, with varying conditions for withdrawal [4][5]. - Some dealers express a preference for cash payments or easy access to funds without fees, highlighting the importance of liquidity for their operations [5]. Inventory and Pricing Issues - Over 53% of surveyed dealers reported inventory levels exceeding 1.5, with 29.36% exceeding 2.0 [6]. - The average price inversion across brands is approximately 16.18%, with 32 brands experiencing price inversions, a decrease from 80% of models facing significant price inversions two months prior [7].

Core Insights - The report from the China Automobile Dealers Association indicates significant changes in rebate policies and inventory levels among major automotive brands following a call for manufacturers to optimize rebate policies and shorten payout periods [2][5]. Rebate Payout Periods - Among the 40 major automotive brands surveyed, 25 brands have a fixed rebate payout period of no more than 30 days, while 15 brands have a period of no more than 60 days [2]. - For non-fixed rebates, 18 brands have a payout period of no more than 30 days, and 16 brands have a period of no more than 60 days [2]. - The report highlights a reduction in the number of brands with payout periods exceeding 90 days, with no brands reporting periods over 180 days [3]. Rebate Payout Methods - 12 brands provide rebates in cash or vehicle accounts that can be withdrawn without fees, while 28 brands offer a mix of vehicle accounts and cash, with varying conditions for withdrawal [3][4]. - Some brands impose fees or require manufacturer approval for withdrawals, which can complicate liquidity for dealers [4]. Inventory Levels - Over 53% of dealers report inventory levels exceeding 1.5, with 29.36% indicating levels above 2.0 [5]. - Certain brands, such as Xiaopeng, Xiaomi, and Deep Blue, report low inventory levels due to their sales models, while brands like Changan and Hongqi have higher inventory levels [5][6]. Price Discrepancies - 8 brands report no price discrepancies, while 32 brands experience an average price discrepancy of approximately 16.18% [6]. - Previously, around 80% of models from 42 brands faced price discrepancies exceeding 20% [6]. Overall Industry Impact - The report suggests that while there have been improvements in rebate policies and inventory management, challenges remain, particularly with complex rebate policies and long payout periods that continue to affect dealer operations and the overall health of the automotive industry [6].