China’s September sales boost fades as the price war drags on

China’s car market is not seeing the usual late-summer rebound. The traditional September-to-October sales peak, often crucial for automakers, looks weaker than expected, while sticker prices remain under pressure from widespread discounts.

Price competition, driven largely by domestic brands and electric models, keeps squeezing margins. Industry watchers say how long this strategy can last will depend on real demand, incentives and the ability of carmakers to survive in an increasingly crowded market.