The China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) recently issued a directive urging auto companies to refrain from publishing weekly sales rankings, in an effort to prevent the spread of fragmented information that could lead to one-sided interpretations and market disruptions caused by misleading public opinion.
The CAAM emphasized the importance of releasing operating data in a consistent manner that aligns with the established operating laws of the automotive industry, such as on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis. This move comes as the Chinese auto industry undergoes a rapid transformation towards electrification, intelligence, and connectivity, positioning itself as a leader in these areas.
According to the CAAM, the release of weekly sales lists by certain automakers has led to public misinterpretation, disrupted industry order, and fueled unhealthy competition practices. To address these issues and promote high-quality development within the industry, the CAAM has called on auto companies to focus on their own business results and refrain from using comparative expressions or correlation rankings in their marketing materials.
Additionally, the CAAM has urged third-party organizations and media outlets to support this initiative by refraining from publishing weekly sales lists and guiding the public to view market fluctuations in a rational manner. While the CAAM did not explicitly name any specific company, it is evident that Li Auto has been a key player in the weekly sales data controversy.
Li Auto, known for sharing weekly insurance registration data from car companies every Tuesday, has faced criticism from competitors like Nio and Xpeng, who have expressed concerns about the impact of these lists on their operations. Despite calls to cease the publication of weekly sales figures, Li Auto has continued to release this data, further exacerbating tensions within the industry.
As the industry seeks to maintain a healthy ecosystem and foster sustainable growth, the CAAM’s initiative serves as a crucial step towards promoting transparency, fair competition, and responsible marketing practices among auto companies in China. By adhering to industry standards and guidelines, companies can contribute to the long-term success and stability of the automotive sector in the country.
