The real reason Chinese cars aren’t available in the U.S.

The debate over whether Chinese automakers should enter the U.S. market is becoming harder for the automotive industry to ignore. Consumers facing record vehicle prices and higher financing costs are looking for more affordable options, while dealers and manufacturers are weighing concerns around national security, data privacy, competition and the future of the U.S. auto industry. David Spisak, President and CEO of Disruptive Growth Solutions, addresses the issue in today’s Inside Automotive episode. While Spisak believes Chinese vehicles will eventually enter the U.S., he also argues that current regulatory and security concerns make it difficult today. Much of the consumer interest comes down to price, as Spisak pointed to the dramatic change in vehicle affordability since 2019, when the average new vehicle sold for about $39,000 and manufacturers offered incentives worth nearly 11% of the transaction price. With a down payment and favorable financing, consumers could get into a new vehicle for roughly $350 a month. Today, Spisak said payments have climbed to about $808, with roughly 20% of consumers paying more than $1,000 a month. Simultaneously, the market has lost its supply of truly affordable new vehicles. In 2019, consumers could choose from 13 models priced below $20,000. Today, he said, there are none, creating what Spisak described as massive pent-up demand for affordable new vehicles, rather than broad pent-up demand for new vehicles overall. CBT News is Dealers' #1 Resource for Auto Industry News, Content, Coaching & Analysis. CBT News is a multimedia broadcast platform serving automotive professionals. With interviews featuring the biggest names in the industry, daily newscasts following top stories, up-to-date market data, 13 shows with industry experts, and exclusive articles covering the latest industry trends, CBT is the leading voice of the retail automotive industry. Subscribe to CBT News on YouTube:    / @carbiztoday   Visit CBT News Website: https://www.cbtnews.com/ Follow Us On Social Media! INSTAGRAM |   / carbiztoday   FACEBOOK |   / carbiztoday   LINKEDIN |   / cbt-news   TIKTOK |   / carbiztoday   X | https://x.com/CarBizToday