Core Viewpoint - The announcement of the bankruptcy of GAC Fiat Chrysler (广汽菲克) marks the end of the domestic Jeep era in China, highlighting the challenges faced by joint venture car manufacturers in the rapidly evolving automotive market [2][32]. Group 1: Jeep's Rise and Fall - Jeep entered the Chinese market with models like the Wrangler and Compass, quickly gaining popularity among male consumers due to its rugged design and strong performance [4][5]. - At its peak in 2017, Jeep sold 222,000 units in China, achieving the status of the best-selling SUV brand [5][18]. - However, the brand's decline was swift, with sales plummeting from 125,200 units in 2018 to just 1,800 units in the first half of 2022, marking a continuous decline over four years [21][24]. Group 2: Factors Leading to Bankruptcy - Quality issues, particularly oil consumption problems, led to a significant number of consumer complaints and negative publicity, which the company failed to address adequately [22][25]. - The company's financial situation deteriorated, with net assets dropping to -331 million yuan in 2020 and only 2 million yuan in 2021, indicating insolvency [26][27]. - Despite attempts to secure additional funding from stakeholders, the financial support was insufficient to cover the mounting losses and debts [27][28]. Group 3: The Broader Context of Joint Ventures - The bankruptcy of GAC Fiat Chrysler reflects a broader trend affecting joint venture car manufacturers in China, as domestic brands and new energy vehicles gain market share [33][41]. - From 2015 to 2023, the sales of new energy vehicles in China surged from 330,000 to over 9 million units, capturing 60% of the global market [38]. - In 2023, the market share of mainstream joint venture brands in China fell below 50%, while domestic new energy vehicle brands rose from 16% to 56% [41]. Group 4: Transition to New Energy Vehicles - The transition from traditional fuel vehicles to electric vehicles is reshaping the automotive landscape, with companies like BYD leading the charge [42]. - GAC Fiat Chrysler's assets are being repurposed for electric vehicle production, marking a significant shift in the company's operational focus [44].