This winter, the Chengdu truck market has taken a noticeable chill. The rising cost of oil has hit commercial vehicles hard, turning what was once a hot season into an unexpected lull. Both light and heavy trucks—vehicles that are typically high on fuel consumption—have faced a sharp decline in demand. This downturn has quietly sparked a shift in the market toward more energy-efficient and economical options.
**Market: No Sales Season in the Busy Season**
Last week, during the afternoon at Wujiaqiao East Motor City, one would have expected to see a bustling scene. But inside the "Yuejin" light truck showroom in Area B, salesperson Ms. Luo sat idly, scrolling through the newspaper. “It feels like May or June,†she said with a sigh. “This is supposed to be our peak season.â€
Wuguiqiao is one of Chengdu’s most historic auto markets, known for its focus on commercial vehicles. Every November, it's a time when local transporters rush to buy new trucks before the city's admission deadline. In previous years, the area was always packed with activity. This year, however, the usual buzz is gone. “We’re not busy at all,†Ms. Luo admitted. For dealers, this slowdown is a clear sign of changing times.
The traditional end-of-year sales season didn’t arrive as expected, leaving many car dealers puzzled. A senior executive from a national commercial vehicle manufacturer explained, “The main issue is the rising oil prices. Fuel costs, which were once manageable, have now become a burden for both users and manufacturers.â€
In Sichuan, the annual demand for heavy trucks is around 12,000 units, while light trucks reach about 25,000. At an average price of 50,000 yuan per unit, the market represents a potential profit of over 1 billion yuan. However, recent diesel supply issues have disrupted deliveries, causing delays and uncertainty.
**Consumers: Rising Oil Prices Hit Hard**
Around 7 p.m. the night before, a gas station on the Third Ring Road was still crowded. Trucks from Henan, Shaanxi, and Anhui lined up for fuel, creating traffic jams. Wang Lei, a transport engineer in Chengdu, calculated the impact for the reporter: “A typical heavy truck uses 30 liters per 100 km. At 250,000 km annually, that’s 75,000 liters. If fuel prices rise by 2 yuan per liter, that’s an extra 150,000 yuan per year. It’s not easy to save that kind of money.â€
For commercial vehicles, which are used as production tools, replacement is frequent. Yet, due to the current diesel shortage, many operators are hesitant to invest. “If you can’t even get fuel, what’s the point of buying a new truck?†Wang said.
**Dealers: We Have Fuel-Saving Models**
“Sure, we have fuel-efficient models,†said the head of a light truck manufacturer. “But some customers aren’t ready to accept them yet.†With the full implementation of the National Euro II emission standards in April, many older Euro I trucks are being phased out. Newer models come with a 4,000-yuan price increase but offer better fuel efficiency and compliance.
“Buying a Euro II truck may cost more upfront, but in the long run, it’s more economical,†said Mr. Li, a Foton Ao Ling dealer. “Fuel savings over time will offset the initial cost.â€
**Industry: Energy Efficiency Is the Future**
According to a representative from Sichuan Aoxin Automobile and Trade, the government’s push for emissions reduction and environmental protection is driving the industry forward. “The truck market will face stricter regulations next year. It’s going to be a tough period for those who don’t adapt.â€
Despite the current slump, the representative remains optimistic. “This is just a temporary phase. The key is changing buyer behavior. With new energy concepts and improved fuel-saving standards, the Chengdu truck market is poised for a rebound, especially around the New Year. We might even see a surge in sales soon.â€