2025: The Year That Will Define China's Auto Industry Landscape | 36Kr Annual Insight

Deep News
Dec 23

Just like other global markets, China's automotive sector cannot sustain an excessive number of brands. In 2025, "intense competition" is no longer the sole descriptor for the industry—"polarization" has emerged as the harsh reality.

As price wars evolve into prolonged battles, technological advantages become the only lifeline for survivors. From ultra-integrated electric drive systems to the steep decline in silicon carbide and battery costs, Chinese automakers are exhausting the cost-reduction dividends of the supply chain. This time, however, gross margins have replaced sales volume as the ultimate benchmark for survival—companies like Seres and Xiaomi have secured their positions above the 20% threshold with autonomous driving premiums, while former profit leaders Tesla and BYD face unprecedented earnings pressure.

The old order is collapsing and reshaping: AITO has effectively displaced BBA in the luxury segment, while Xiaomi captured a quarter of the 200,000–300,000 RMB market with just one hit model. Beyond the domestic battleground, global expansion is now imperative—BYD’s overseas sales have surged exponentially, and emerging automakers are directly investing in factories and capital worldwide.

By 2025, the auto industry’s battlefield has escalated from pure price wars to a comprehensive "value war" centered on technological dominance, global pricing power, and supply chain control.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Investors should proceed at their own risk.

Disclaimer: Investing carries risk. This is not financial advice. The above content should not be regarded as an offer, recommendation, or solicitation on acquiring or disposing of any financial products, any associated discussions, comments, or posts by author or other users should not be considered as such either. It is solely for general information purpose only, which does not consider your own investment objectives, financial situations or needs. TTM assumes no responsibility or warranty for the accuracy and completeness of the information, investors should do their own research and may seek professional advice before investing.

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