Fewer models eligible for energy-saving subsidies
China's government said a reduced 26 car models are eligible for funding for energy-saving vehicles after it raised the subsidy threshold this month.
The BYD F3, Buick Excelle and Volkswagen Golf are among the approved models, the National Development and Reform Commission said in a statement on its Web site.
A total of 49 variations of these models qualify for the 3,000 yuan ($470) subsidy, the agency said.
China tightened its criteria for makers of energy-efficient vehicles this month as it cut subsidies that had been introduced during the global recession.
The government had paid 3 billion yuan ($470 million) to fund the purchase of 341 variations of such cars since the subsidy program began.
Starting Oct. 1, cars weighing 1,205 kilograms to 1,320 kilograms must have average fuel consumption no greater than 6.3 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers to qualify for state subsidies, according to the Ministry of Finance.
The rule replaced the previous fuel criterion of 6.9 liters per 100 kilometers that had been in place since June 1, 2010.
