May 12 witnessed Sichuan auto market

At 14:28, on May 12, 2008, a powerful earthquake struck Western China's province Sichuan, killing 69,227 people and toppling hundreds of thousands of homes, factories, offices and schools. It is the country's worst natural disaster in three decades.

In the aftermath of Sichuan earthquake, the local auto market was shrouded with depression and desperation. However, less than one month after the quake, Sichuan auto market recovered 80% of its auto sales and maintenance. More than 80 domestic automakers heartfully donated money and goods. Chinese independent automakers like Geely, BYD, Great Wall and Chery acted outstandingly in the big disaster.

A year passed, the Sichuan auto market posted unbelievable hot-selling performance, with some brand even running out of sales. As reconstruction work is going on, the local auto market clearly is recovering under the efforts of automakers and consumers.