Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the decline of the Toyota Alphard, once considered a "god car" in the Chinese market, highlighting the factors contributing to its reduced desirability and the rise of domestic competitors [4][14][61]. Group 1: Background of Toyota Alphard - The Toyota Alphard was initially designed for Japanese family users, not as a luxury business vehicle, and gained popularity in China due to its association with celebrities and high-profile users [12][22][30]. - The vehicle's price in Japan was approximately 500 million yen, equivalent to around 300,000 RMB, making it a popular choice among middle-class families [24]. - The introduction of the second generation in 2010 marked its transition to a luxury positioning, with prices starting at 600,000 to 700,000 RMB, leading to increased demand and subsequent price hikes by dealers [36][37]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Price Trends - At its peak, the Alphard commanded a price increase of up to 300,000 RMB, reflecting its status as a high-demand vehicle with limited supply [20][21]. - Sales data indicates that from 2017 to 2021, the Alphard sold 85,000 units in China, maintaining its position as the top high-end MPV [45]. - However, after 2021, sales began to decline, and the once significant price increases have reduced to 20,000 to 30,000 RMB [14][46]. Group 3: Competition and Market Changes - The rise of domestic brands has significantly impacted the Alphard's market position, with competitors like the Denza D9 and Lantu Dreamer offering similar features at competitive prices [65][66]. - Toyota's own models, such as the Vellfire and Lexus LM300h, have also entered the market, further diluting the Alphard's exclusivity [52][56]. - The changing consumer preferences and the emergence of new domestic MPVs have led to a reevaluation of the Alphard's value proposition, as its unique selling points are increasingly matched or surpassed by competitors [61][67]. Group 4: Conclusion on Alphard's Status - The article concludes that while the Alphard was a groundbreaking product in the MPV segment, its inflated status was not sustainable, and the vehicle's decline was inevitable due to market evolution and increased competition [69][70][71].

Group 1 - The Toyota Alphard has been both loved and hated in the Chinese automotive industry, with notable figures like NIO's Li Bin criticizing its pricing strategies [1][7] - The Alphard was initially designed for Japanese family users, but its positioning as a luxury vehicle in China was a strategic decision that led to its high demand [5][9] - At its peak, the Alphard commanded a price increase of up to 300,000 RMB, making it a symbol of luxury and exclusivity in the Chinese market [7][9] Group 2 - Sales of the Toyota Alphard in China reached 85,000 units from 2017 to 2021, but began to decline after 2021, leading to a decrease in its once high price premiums [24][26] - The emergence of domestic competitors and the introduction of models like the Toyota Vellfire and Lexus LM300h have diluted the Alphard's market position [30][33] - Domestic brands have launched their own MPV models, such as the Denza D9 and Lantu Dreamer, which have capitalized on the features that once made the Alphard desirable, further challenging its status [37][39]

Core Viewpoint - The recent adjustment of the consumption tax threshold for super luxury cars from 1.3 million yuan to 900,000 yuan is expected to significantly impact the luxury car market, particularly affecting brands like Porsche and Mercedes-Benz that fall within the new tax range [1][3][18] Group 1: Policy Changes - The consumption tax threshold for super luxury cars has been lowered from a retail price of 1.3 million yuan (excluding VAT) to 900,000 yuan [1][4] - The new policy will take effect shortly after its announcement, leaving little time for car manufacturers to adapt [1][3] Group 2: Market Reactions - Consumers are reacting quickly to the policy change, with reports of increased sales activity in luxury car showrooms prior to the implementation date [8][9] - Brands like Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW are expected to be most affected, as many of their models now fall within the taxable range [6][11] Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The adjustment may intensify competition among luxury car manufacturers, as they may need to reconsider pricing strategies to maintain market share [11][18] - If luxury brands do not adjust prices, potential buyers may shift their interest towards second-hand vehicles or domestic luxury brands that are not affected by the new tax [13][15] Group 4: Impact on Different Segments - The policy change primarily impacts traditional fuel-powered luxury vehicles, while electric and fuel cell vehicles are less affected [12][18] - The adjustment could create opportunities for electric vehicles priced just below the new threshold, making them more attractive to consumers [16]

Core Viewpoint - The long delivery times for popular electric vehicles, particularly the Xiaomi YU7, have sparked consumer frustration, despite the high demand and initial excitement surrounding these models [1][5][20]. Group 1: Delivery Times and Consumer Reactions - The Xiaomi YU7 has a delivery time of up to 61 weeks, which translates to over a year, causing significant consumer dissatisfaction and even calls for refunds [5][7][9]. - Other luxury brands also experience long delivery times, with Lamborghini's Revuelto requiring over two years for delivery, while Porsche's Panamera maintains a shorter six-month wait [10][14]. - The phenomenon of long delivery times is not unique to Xiaomi, as many high-demand models across various brands face similar delays due to supply chain issues and production limitations [9][20]. Group 2: Factors Contributing to Delays - The delays in delivery are attributed to several factors, including high demand for these "hot" models, supply chain vulnerabilities, and production capacity constraints [22][23][27]. - For instance, Xiaomi's SU7 has faced extended delivery times due to battery supply issues, which have been partially alleviated by switching to a new battery supplier [24][27]. - The production capacity of Xiaomi's factories is limited, with the current maximum capacity being 300,000 units, while there are over 140,000 outstanding orders for the SU7 alone [27]. Group 3: Consumer Sentiment and Market Dynamics - Despite the long wait times, many consumers are willing to wait due to brand loyalty and the perceived value of the vehicles, particularly among Xiaomi's existing customer base [31][33]. - The emotional value and brand attachment play significant roles in consumer decisions, with some consumers viewing the wait as an opportunity to save more money [34][35]. - However, there are concerns about the potential for the vehicles to become outdated by the time they are delivered, as software updates and new features may be released during the waiting period [38][39].