267

Before 2000, only wealthy families could afford private cars. After 2000, ordinary families began to buy private cars. People usually call 2000 "the 1st year of private cars in China."

In automobile market, private cars are divided into 6 categories: Japanese (e.g. Toyota), Korean (Hyundai), German (Jetta), French (Citroën), American (Ford) and Chinese (Chery).

German cars have the best reputation and, of course, the highest price. Japanese cars have the lowest fuel consumption among 6 categories, so they have the largest user group.

Cheyouhui (车友会, drivers' club) websites began to appear on the internet, such as Toyota Club, Jetta Club, etc. Some cheyouhui websites (forum or BBS) still exist today.