Zhang Yongwei, chairman of the Chebaihui Research Institute, said at the
Intelligent Electric Vehicle Development Summit 2027 that China’s auto market
will be in an adjustment phase in 2026 and enter a domestic recovery in 2027. He
forecasts 2026 domestic sales down 18% and exports up 55%, signaling strong
external demand but weak internal consumption. He said maintaining domestic
annual sales at 25 mln vehicles during the 15th Five-Year Plan is key to
stabilizing internal circulation, and total annual vehicle sales should remain
at 35–40 mln.