Core Viewpoint - The automotive dealership sector is facing significant challenges related to the timely fulfillment of manufacturer rebates, which are crucial for alleviating financial pressures and improving operational conditions for dealers [2][3]. Group 1: Issues with Rebates - The complexity of rebate structures creates ambiguity, with manufacturers offering various types of rebates, including fixed and non-fixed rebates, making it difficult for dealers to calculate their entitlements [2]. - There is a significant disparity in the rebate fulfillment timelines among different brands, with some brands fulfilling fixed rebates in less than 30 days while others take up to 180 days [2]. - Non-fixed rebates also show variability, with 18 brands fulfilling them in under 30 days, while some brands do not even offer non-fixed rebates [2]. Group 2: Limitations on Rebate Usage - The forms of rebate fulfillment and their usage are often restricted, with 9 brands providing cash rebates that are fully discretionary for dealers, while others impose limitations on how rebates can be utilized [3]. - A total of 25 brands provide rebates only through system accounts, which can only be used for purchasing vehicles or parts, with some brands placing specific restrictions on the proportion of rebates that can be applied to vehicle purchases [3]. Group 3: Calls for Action - The automotive dealership association has issued three main calls for action: to establish clear and simplified rebate policies, to shorten the rebate fulfillment timelines, and to reduce excessive restrictions on rebate fulfillment and usage [3].

Core Viewpoint - The automotive dealership association has called for manufacturers to optimize rebate policies and shorten the rebate payment period to alleviate the financial pressure faced by dealerships [1][3]. Group 1: Current Challenges Faced by Dealerships - Dealerships are under significant operational pressure, with a report indicating that while they are meeting sales targets for 2024, losses from new car sales have not improved their survival conditions [1][7]. - A survey revealed that 84.4% of dealerships are experiencing price inversion, with 60.4% facing price inversions exceeding 15%, leading to liquidity issues [7][9]. - The complexity of rebate structures and delayed payments are major concerns for dealerships, impacting their cash flow and operational viability [3][4]. Group 2: Issues with Rebate Policies - The rebate structure from manufacturers is complicated, with a mix of fixed and non-fixed rebates, leading to confusion and uncertainty for dealerships [3][4]. - There is a significant disparity in the rebate payment periods among brands, with some offering payments within 30 days while others extend up to 180 days [4]. - The limitations on how rebates can be used further complicate the situation, with many brands restricting the use of rebates to vehicle purchases or parts, which reduces financial flexibility for dealerships [4][5]. Group 3: Manufacturer Responses - Some manufacturers, including GAC Group and BMW, have committed to shortening the rebate payment period to 60 days, recognizing the importance of dealership stability for customer service [6][7]. - The automotive industry is seeing a slight improvement in manufacturer satisfaction among dealerships due to proactive measures taken by manufacturers, such as offering price discounts and adjusting sales targets [9].