LOCKDOWN CHAT: HOW IS THE LOCKDOWN AFFECTING CHINA'S CAR MARKET?

EV Channels Review

The Wheelsboy team, currently under lockdown in Shanghai, shifts from traditional car reviews to a "Lockdown Chat" format to discuss the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak on China's automotive market. The video highlights significant drops in car sales (11.7% in March year-on-year) and widespread lockdowns affecting 373 million people, representing 40% of China's GDP. Factory closures by major players like Tesla, Volkswagen, SAIC, Toyota, and Nio are detailed, with General Motors and SAIC noted as operating under a "bubble" system. A critical point is the vulnerability of the supply chain, particularly the reliance on "just-in-time" manufacturing and the potential impact of lockdowns on key suppliers like CATL, a major battery producer for global EV manufacturers. The video contrasts this with BYD's strong vertical integration, positioning them as a potential beneficiary. The postponement of the Beijing Auto Show and its effect on new vehicle debuts, including models from Li Auto, Xpeng, BYD, Audi, and Nio, is also discussed. The hosts express a strong desire to return to test drives but acknowledge the current limitations, emphasizing safety for viewers in China and seeking topic suggestions.