Core Insights - The domestic automotive market in China is undergoing structural adjustments, with a rapid increase in the penetration rate of new energy vehicles (NEVs), leading to the strong rise of domestic brands. In contrast, joint venture brands are facing challenges, with their market share dropping from 61.6% in 2020 to less than one-third by 2024 [1][2]. Market Share Decline - In the "golden September and silver October" period, many domestic brands like Xpeng, Xiaomi, and NIO achieved record sales, while joint venture brands struggled. For instance, FAW Toyota's sales in October were 71,407 units, a slight decline from 76,000 units year-on-year, and SAIC Volkswagen's sales fell by 17.47% to 94,000 units [2]. - Data from the China Automobile Dealers Association indicates that from January to September this year, domestic brand passenger car sales reached nearly 11.01 million units, 1.83 times that of all joint venture brands combined. The gap is expected to widen, with a projected ratio of 1.53 in 2024 [2]. Challenges for Joint Venture Brands - Industry insiders believe that the failure to adapt to the new trends of electrification and intelligence in the automotive sector is a primary reason for joint venture brands falling behind. The shift towards NEVs began after the 2012 release of the Energy-Saving and New Energy Vehicle Industry Development Plan, which allowed domestic NEVs to gradually change the market landscape [3]. - Compared to traditional fuel vehicles, NEVs are more environmentally friendly and better suited for intelligent development. The pace of model upgrades has accelerated significantly, from years to months, but many joint venture brands have not adapted quickly enough, primarily focusing on fuel vehicles and lagging in model updates [3]. Strategic Adjustments - Joint venture brands are exploring various strategies to adapt, including accelerating electrification and intelligence transitions. For example, Buick's new electric vehicle, the Electra L7, has garnered attention for its advanced features. Additionally, partnerships like that of Volkswagen and Xpeng aim to enhance vehicle intelligence [4]. - Some joint venture brands are shifting their focus from "in China, for China" to "in China, for the world," indicating a strategic pivot towards international markets [4]. Export Strategies - Companies like Light Beam Automotive are focusing on exports, with nearly 80% of their production aimed at international markets. This strategy has led to profitability in the same year of production, emphasizing quality over quantity [5]. - Yueda Kia has also adjusted its strategy to prioritize exports, achieving a 5.2% year-on-year sales increase from January to October 2023, with a total of 210,282 units sold [5]. International Market Challenges - Despite a significant increase in vehicle exports, the revenue growth has not matched the volume increase, leading to a situation where many companies experience "increased revenue without increased profit" [7]. - The overseas market is becoming increasingly competitive, with a notable oversupply in regions like Thailand, where multiple brands have established production facilities, leading to potential market saturation [7]. - Joint venture brands face additional challenges due to external factors and trade disputes, complicating their international expansion efforts [7]. Overall Industry Outlook - The automotive industry requires a combination of domestic supply chain advantages and international brand strength to navigate the current landscape. This dual approach can help joint venture brands leverage both markets effectively [6]. - There is a consensus among industry insiders that both joint venture and domestic brands need to adhere to industry regulations and maintain healthy competition to enhance the international image of Chinese manufacturing [8].