The fines are the largest given out yet by the country's anti-monopoly regulator, the National Development Reform Commission (NDRC), as part of a crackdown.

Parts makers Sumitomo Electric and Mitsubishi Electric were listed amongst those receiving the heaviest fines.

In a statement, the NDRC said the agreements were in violation of law and ‘improperly affected the pricing for auto parts, entire vehicles and bearings’.

Last Sunday, the Xinhua news agency reported that Mercedes-Benz has been found guilty of manipulating aftersales parts.

Other companies said to be guilty of monopoly practices include BMW, Audi and Chrysler.