According to recent industry data, domestic car sales reached 2.79 million units in the first half of this year, reflecting a 9.4% year-on-year increase. Among all vehicle categories, passenger cars remain the most dominant segment, with over 1.3 million units sold—an impressive growth of more than 17%. While the broader automotive market saw modest gains, certain sub-segments have experienced notable shifts, especially in the mini-commercial vehicle (or micro-vehicle) sector, which has recently drawn significant attention from industry players.
Despite the relatively lower revenue and profit margins compared to other segments, the micro-vehicle market plays a crucial role in determining overall sales figures for automakers. Major companies such as SAIC, Dongfeng, FAW, and Changan have all made strategic moves to strengthen their positions in this area. In the first half of the year, micro-vehicle sales rose by approximately 10%, maintaining a steady share of around 20% of the total domestic auto market.
In 2004, micro-vehicles accounted for roughly 1 million units in production and sales, representing about 20% of the overall market. At that time, Changan led with a 36% market share, followed by SAIC-GM-Wuling at 25%, Hafei at 20%, FAW Jiabao at 10%, and Changhe at 9%. By the first half of this year, the market had evolved, with SAIC-GM-Wuling making a strong move, increasing its market share from 25% to nearly 30%—a 41.7% year-on-year rise. This growth has brought it closer to Changan, the traditional market leader.
Industry analysts predict that micro-vehicle sales will surpass 1.1 million units this year, with a double-digit growth rate. As market concentration increases, the top two players—Changan and SAIC-GM-Wuling—are expected to further consolidate their dominance.
While Changan remains the market leader, it has not invested heavily in new production capacity this year. Instead, it has relied on its long-standing product lineup and R&D capabilities to maintain competitiveness. The company launched a price war and introduced a new model featuring an advanced, independently developed 1.3L engine.
Meanwhile, FAW Jiabao has struggled, losing market share from 10% to 6% and dropping from fourth to fifth place. However, with financial challenges facing FAW Group, industry insiders suggest that a revitalization plan is likely in the second half of the year, with Jiabao playing a key role in turning things around.
Dongfeng and SAIC have also been actively expanding their micro-vehicle operations. SAIC-GM-Wuling, in particular, has made major investments, including a new engine plant and the acquisition of Qingdao Suizhong Automobile, aiming to reach 500,000 units in production and sales by 2010.
Overall, the micro-vehicle market continues to be a dynamic and important part of China’s automotive landscape, with shifting competition and evolving strategies among the major players.
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