1. Vehicle Insurance: Comprehensive vs. Basic Coverage?
1.1 First-Year Insurance Cost Breakdown
| Coverage Type | Comprehensive | Basic | Purpose | Price Reference (¥200K Car) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory Traffic Insurance | ✓ | ✓ | Legally required (covers third-party injuries) | ¥950 (under 6 seats) |
| Collision Insurance | ✓ | ✗ | Covers own vehicle damage | ¥2,500–3,500 |
| Third-Party Liability (200K) | ✓ | ✓ | Recommended for injury/property damage | ¥800–1,200 |
| Passenger Liability | ✓ | ✗ | Covers driver & passengers | ¥200–400 |
| Medical Out-of-Pocket Coverage | ✓ | ✗ | Non-insured medical costs | ¥50–100 |
| Scratch Protection | Optional | ✗ | Covers paint scratches | ¥500–800/year |
Typical Plans Compared:
Full Coverage: ~¥6,500–8,500 (Collision + 2M Third-Party + Extras)
Basic Plan: ~¥3,500–4,500 (Compulsory + 2M Third-Party Only)
1.2 EV-Specific Coverage
External Grid Failure Insurance: Covers charging equipment damage (~¥200/year).
Spontaneous Combustion Coverage: Now included in collision insurance (battery fires covered).
Money-Saving Tips:
Compare quotes from multiple insurers (Ping An/PICC/CPIC may vary by 15%).
Opt for a "deductible" to lower premiums (e.g., self-pay for damages under ¥2,000).
2. Tax Calculations: EVs vs. Gas Cars Differ Significantly
2.1 Purchase Tax Comparison
| Vehicle Type | Formula | Current Policy | Example (¥200K Invoice) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gas Car | Invoice Price ÷ 11.3 | 10% Tax Rate | ¥17,699 |
| PHEV (≥43km EV range) | Exempt | 2023–2025 Exemption | ¥0 |
| BEV | Fully Exempt | No ¥300K Cap from 2024 | ¥0 |
Key Notes:
Invoice price is the tax basis (underreporting risks audit).
Overseas returnees may qualify for tax exemption (must purchase within 1 year of returning).
2.2 Other Fixed Costs
License Plate Fee: ¥120 (registration) + ¥50 (temporary plate).
Annual Vehicle Tax: ¥360–660 (1.6–2.0L engines).
3. Pre-Delivery Inspection: 6-Step Checklist
3.1 Vehicle Identity Verification
Manufacture Date: Check B-pillar label (≤3 months for domestic, ≤6 months for imports).
VIN: Match on windshield, engine bay, and documents (10th digit = year code).
Tire Date: 4-digit code (e.g., "2523" = 25th week of 2023).
3.2 Exterior Inspection
Paint: Check for color mismatch at 45° angles; feel seams for smoothness.
Panel Gaps: Hood/doors should align evenly (>3mm variance is suspect).
Glass: All windows’ production dates must precede the car’s (e.g., "..2" = 2022).
3.3 Interior & Function Test
Seats: Test adjustments/heating/ventilation (3+ cycles).
Infotainment: Swipe continuously for lag; test voice commands.
Sunroof: Open/close + drainage check (pour water to verify).
3.4 Mechanical Inspection
Engine: Cold start for abnormal noises; check oil dipstick for emulsion.
Undercarriage: Inspect for scrapes/leaks (focus on EV battery area).
Odometer: ≤50 km (EVs in transport mode typically ≤20 km).
3.5 Included Accessories
| Essentials | EV-Specific Items |
|---|---|
| Spare Tire/Tool Kit | Charger & Installation Proof |
| Warning Triangle | External Discharge Adapter |
| Reflective Vest | Portable Charger |
| Jack | Battery Warranty Manual |
3.6 Document Review
| Document | Key Checks |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Certificate | VIN matches car |
| Sales Invoice | Matches negotiated price |
| Warranty Booklet | Stamped + start date |
| Compliance Certificate | Verify specs |
| Maintenance Guide | Includes free first service |
Pitfalls to Avoid:
If the certificate is held by a bank, demand a written delivery promise.
For EVs, request a separate Battery Warranty Agreement.
4. Special Considerations
4.1 Loan Pitfalls
"Financial Service Fee": Negotiable if >3% of loan amount.
GPS Fee: Mandatory installation is illegal (report to 12315).
Forced Insurance: Dealers cannot mandate specific insurers.
4.2 EV-Specific
Charger Rights: Confirm free installation within 30 meters.
Battery Health Report: Demand SOC reading (should be ≥98%).
4.3 Consumer Rights
Damaged/Overstocked Cars: Demand replacement or compensation (law supports 3x refunds).
Missing Docs: Refuse delivery and document communications.
5. Summary Checklist
Insurance: Opt for 2M third-party; collision coverage as needed.
Taxes: EVs exempt; gas cars taxed at (Invoice Price ÷ 11.3).
Inspection: Focus on production date, paint, mileage, and tools.
Documents: Certificate, invoice, and warranty are mandatory.
Bring to Delivery: Flashlight, wet wipes (for paint), phone (to photograph VIN). Following this guide avoids 90% of risks. For disputes, immediately call the manufacturer’s hotline or file a complaint with consumer protection authorities.
