Over 150 thousand new cars register every year as well, leaving the number of new parking spaces far behind. (xkb.com.cn)

In order to support a car, a family in Guangzhou has to spend at least 2000 yuan (292 USD) every month, which nearly equates to a local employee's total monthly income, according to the "Report on the Development of Guangzhou's Auto Industry" issued by the Guangzhou Academy of Social Sciences on Sunday.

The report also indicated that in America a family only has to spend 4000 USD on their car annually, which is the average monthly income of the local people.

Experts say a major disproportion of income to expenses is evident, and that money spent on vehicles is much higher here in Guangzhou.

A shortage of parking areas and the soaring prices of petroleum are two main causes of higher automobile expenses.

Monthly expenses for an automobile include the cost of petrol, the maintaining of roads and bridges (which seems to be never-ending) and parking fees.

Guangzhou is now short some 400 thousand parking spots. 50 thousand spots are added in the city every year. However, over 150 thousand new cars register every year as well, leaving the number of new parking spaces far behind.

The report also said that the market for car repair is often unreliable, creating another reason for the rise of expenses.