Core Viewpoint - The article explores the emerging trend of individuals choosing to live in their cars instead of renting apartments, driven by factors such as cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and a desire for personal space and comfort [7][8][17]. Group 1: Reasons for Living in Cars - High cost-effectiveness is a primary reason for many individuals opting for car living, as it significantly reduces monthly expenses compared to renting [8][14]. - Individuals like Ma Shu and Yin Meng have found that living in their cars allows them to save on rent while still enjoying a comfortable living environment [12][17]. - The ability to adapt to a mobile lifestyle and the freedom it provides are also significant factors influencing this choice [15][19]. Group 2: Lifestyle Changes and Adaptations - Living in a car has led to a reorganization of daily routines and a sense of belonging for individuals who previously felt transient in their living situations [20][22]. - The limited space in cars has prompted individuals to creatively enhance their living conditions, such as setting up kitchens and bathrooms in outdoor spaces [23][24]. - Social interactions have increased for some, as living in communal or public spaces has led to unexpected connections with others [27][29]. Group 3: Challenges and Considerations - Despite the perceived freedom, living in cars presents challenges such as noise, lack of privacy, and the need for adaptability to various living conditions [34][39]. - Family concerns about safety and comfort in such living arrangements often arise, although many individuals have managed to alleviate these worries over time [39][41]. - The lifestyle is not seen as a long-term solution, with many individuals acknowledging the need for a more stable living situation in the future [42][45].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising trend of individuals choosing to live in their cars instead of renting apartments in urban areas, highlighting the reasons behind this lifestyle choice and its implications on their daily lives and sense of belonging [7][9][51]. Group 1: Reasons for Choosing Car Living - High cost-performance ratio is a primary reason for many individuals opting for "car living" [9]. - Individuals like "Code Uncle" and "Yin Meng" found renting apartments financially burdensome, leading them to consider living in their vehicles as a more economical alternative [10][15]. - "Code Uncle" transformed a second-hand food truck into a living space for only 2100 yuan, significantly reducing his living expenses compared to renting [10][19]. - "Yin Meng" calculated that his weekly commuting costs were about 300 yuan, which is nearly 40% cheaper than his previous rental expenses [19]. - For "Zhang Yunlai," the choice was driven by the desire for a more comfortable living environment, as he found renting a cramped apartment unsatisfactory [25][27]. Group 2: Changes in Lifestyle and Sense of Belonging - Living in a car has provided individuals with a sense of ownership and belonging that they lacked in rented accommodations [32][35]. - "Code Uncle" expressed that the small space of his food truck gave him a sense of security and control over his living environment [33]. - The ability to customize and improve their living conditions in their vehicles has led to a newfound sense of creativity and personal expression [40][41]. - Social interactions have increased for some, as living in a car has allowed them to meet diverse individuals in shared spaces [44][48]. Group 3: Challenges and Adaptations - Living in a vehicle presents challenges such as noise disturbances and limited space, which require individuals to adapt their lifestyles [54][55]. - "Code Uncle" faced practical issues with his vehicle's modifications, while "Zhang Yunlai" dealt with pests in his park setting [59][60]. - Family concerns about safety and comfort were common, but many individuals found ways to reassure their loved ones about their living conditions [62][63]. - Despite the challenges, individuals maintain a perspective that this lifestyle is a temporary solution rather than a permanent living arrangement [72].