China's electric vehicle "market has taken over"

"New York Times" September 26 article, original title: For the Chinese automobile market, electric vehicles are not the future, but the present

Last month, retired Zhangyou Ping (Yin) bought a BYD pure electric car at about $ 20,000 at a auto show. In the past 10 years, she bought 3 gasoline vehicles, but she recently started to worry about oil prices and decided to drive electric vehicles to "save expenses."

This year, 1/4 will be a pure electric vehicle or plug -in hybrid vehicle for all new cars purchased by Chinese consumers in China. It is estimated that more than 300 companies in China have produced electric vehicles, with discounts below $ 5,000, and high -end models against foreign manufacturers such as Tesla. When other electric vehicle markets still depend on subsidies and fiscal incentives, China has entered a new stage: consumers weigh the advantages and disadvantages of electric vehicles and gasoline vehicles based on functions and prices, and do not consider national support. In contrast, the United States is far behind.

After more than ten years of subsidies, long -term investment and infrastructure expenditures, China has laid the foundation for its independence of its electric vehicle market. Tu Le said, "In China, electric vehicles have developed in the stage of price competition and functional competition in China. It has nothing to do with subsidies. The market has taken over."

The 27 -year -old Gou Chaobo is an employee of a construction company. Recently he decided to change electric vehicles. He said economic incentives did not affect his decision to buy a car. In Chengdu, a large city in southwestern China, where Mr. Gou lives and works, traditional cars are restricted to the road every day. And electric vehicles can enter and exit freely. In addition, electric vehicles can enjoy free parking for two hours before the public parking lot. Mr. Gou said that according to his calculations, the cost of electric vehicles was less than 1/10 of gasoline cars. Once he determines the specific model, it will also benefit from government subsidies. In addition, the government will exempt 10%of the purchase tax of new energy vehicles.

A large number of Chinese competitors who cater to local preferences quickly launch new models. About 80%of all electric vehicles sold in China this year came from domestic automakers. Most foreign brands are struggling to compete with Chinese companies. Jason Liu (Yin), chief analyst of the research company Canalys, said that compared with foreign car companies, China's electric vehicle brands are more active in incorporating new technologies such as entertainment and voice control functions into vehicles. Ms. Zhang also considered some foreign electric vehicle brands, but her minimalist function does not conform to her taste. "Nothing inside. I don't like that design," Ms. Zhang said, "This is a bit different from our Chinese living habits."

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