The downturn in China’s auto market worsened in January and February, as an economic slowdown and a tariff fight with the US chilled demand in the industry’s biggest global market.

Sales of SUVs, minivans and sedans plunged 17.5 per cent from a year earlier to 3.2 million in the first two months of 2019, according to an industry group, the China Association of Auto Manufacturers (CAAM).

Total vehicle sales, including trucks and buses, fell 15 per cent to 3.8 million units. The drop in sales of passenger cars in January was also 15 per cent. Chinese consumers are putting off big purchases amid the economic downturn, that saw growth last year fall to a three-decade low of 6.6 per cent.

The auto slump is squeezing revenue for global and Chinese auto-makers that are spending heavily to meet government targets to develop electric vehicles.

Last year’s auto sales suffered their first decline in nearly three decades, falling 4.1 per cent from 2017 to 23.7 million.

The downturn has prompted suggestions Beijing will cut sales taxes or offer other incentives.

Sales by Chinese brands fell 23 per cent to 1.3 million units in January and February, according to CAAM.

Market share for Chinese brands shrank by 3 per cent compared with the same time last year to 41.8 per cent.

Growth in sales of pure-electric and hybrid vehicles, which Beijing is promoting with subsidies, rose 98.9 per cent over a year ago to 148,000 units.

Sales of SUVs, usually a bright spot for the industry, contracted 18.6 per cent to 141,000.

Related Topics