2003: Starting with Foreign Trade

Chapter 845 "Following President Tan Offers a Bright Future"

"Hey boss, stop joking. Besides, this isn't the right time to talk about this."

The person next to you in bed understands you best. Seeing that his wife was clearly stunned, Zhang Li had no choice but to step in and smooth things over.

Others, even his wife, might think the boss was joking, but he knew that this was probably the boss's true thought.

"Haha, I know, but we at Weilai have always been open to all talented people."

Tan Jincheng winked at Zhang Li.

It's not that easy to poach a key figure from a car company. The reason for being so hasty and direct is simply to make a stronger impression on Wang Fengying and Zhang Li.

Zhang Li would definitely understand his thoughts.

Traditional automakers have always faced difficulties in transitioning to new energy vehicles.

Apart from BYD, which bet heavily from the beginning and even almost completely cut off its gasoline vehicle production line later on, other brands, whether BBA or domestic, are facing extremely difficult situations.

Don't say they don't value the new energy sector.

Take multinational giants like BMW and Toyota as examples. They started researching new energy vehicles in the early 2000s. It's no wonder they couldn't see the potential of the new energy vehicle industry under the explosive growth of the Chinese market.

Even giants can't refuse the opportunity to open up another avenue for making money.

"Great Wall's Haval series is very good, but besides pickup trucks, the Haval series is the only growth point for Great Wall. Your response speed for new energy vehicles is too slow."

"Another problem is that your after-sales service is not as good as ours."

Like many domestic cars, the Haval series focuses on cost-effectiveness and overall vehicle quality is generally good, but it is plagued by minor problems. The first generation of the Yuechi A1 also suffered from this.

In February of this year, Haval experienced a significant brand image crisis when a car owner encountered a series of quality problems within three months of purchasing the vehicle, requiring eight major repairs in total.

This clearly indicates a serious quality issue at the time of manufacture. If it were Wei Lai, even if he didn't offer a replacement or refund, he would at least issue a recall for inspection and strive to give the car owner a satisfactory response.

What happened to this car owner was that neither the manufacturer nor the dealer acknowledged any quality issues with the car, and they made various excuses, which led the car owner to sue both parties in court.

Although the court ultimately ruled against the car owner, it cannot mask the problems with the car itself. Car companies with professional legal teams are far beyond the reach of ordinary people.

If the lawsuit is filed in the wrong direction, then losing the case is inevitable.

Besides the H series, these problems are more obvious in the C series, with slower model updates, quality issues, and after-sales problems being more pronounced.

"Mr. Wang should understand smartphones and the apps on them. Smartphones and apps update very quickly, which can give consumers a great experience. In fact, if cars want to give consumers a better experience, they should also learn from the experience of the mobile phone industry."

"It's not terrible when problems arise, what's terrible is our reaction speed. A company must respond to consumers' demands as quickly as possible in order to keep a brand competitive."

"The core reason why our Yuechi series has been able to maintain its competitiveness and achieve explosive growth even in its eighth year on the market is that we have been learning advanced technologies in the mobile phone manufacturing industry, making the company more flexible."

"Only we at Weilai can achieve such a response mechanism because we are young enough to have plenty of opportunities to try and fail, and because I have experience in the internet industry, I can do marketing and internet business thinking that traditional companies do not have."

"If I had to describe what kind of car company Weilai is, I think it would be somewhere between a traditional car company and an emerging force."

Without ideals and without "Liu Lai" for the time being, there are quite a few car brands established in 2015, such as WM Motor, Leapmotor, Enovate, Nezha, and Xiaopeng established last year, which are more familiar to later generations.

These newly established car brands all specialize in new energy vehicles, and internet companies such as Baidu and LeEco have also announced their entry into the automotive industry.

Therefore, these emerging car brands that do not have a gasoline-powered vehicle business but have more or less an internet background are called "new forces".

The period between 2014 and 2018 was a time when many new brands were established, including Great Wall Motors, which was also planning Wey and announced that it would create a luxury SUV brand and make new energy vehicles.

The term "new force" also emerged this year.

The traditional three forces have been decimated by Tan Jincheng, and it's anyone's guess who the so-called new three forces will be in the future.

"So, Mr. Wang, my invitation was sincere. Besides the reason I just mentioned, our stage at Weilai is even bigger than that of Great Wall. On behalf of myself and everyone at Weilai, I sincerely welcome Mr. Wang to join us."

"In addition, we will also give Mr. Wang the respect he deserves in terms of the corresponding incentive mechanisms."

There are two sales queens in the country: Ms. Dong and Wang Fengying. However, their treatment is vastly different. In addition to having enormous influence, Ms. Dong also holds a large number of Gree shares, making her a billionaire herself.

Wang Fengying, on the other hand, earns a considerable annual salary of 550 million yuan at Great Wall.

However, the number of shares was pitifully small. Apart from the few she bought herself, Wang Fengying received no equity incentives whatsoever; good heavens, this was even worse than her husband's treatment in Weilai.

Simply put, Wang Fengying is different from other executives; she's just an employee. Although her annual salary of 550 million is high, she is also quite frugal, which is enough for her to live comfortably.

This was unbelievable to Tan Jincheng. He wondered what method Lao Wei had used to make Wang Fengying and Zhang Li so devoted to working for him for so many years.

Perhaps it was because people in that era had a different way of thinking; they valued making contributions.

"Currently, Great Wall's revenue is higher than Weilai's. In addition, since the Haval series has received guidance from President Tan, we can make improvements in this area and learn from Weilai."

"As for the new energy vehicles that Mr. Tan mentioned, Great Wall did start relatively late, but there's a saying that good things come to those who wait."

"How did Mr. Tan come to the conclusion that Wei Lai has a better future than Changcheng?"

Wang Fengying's words were also sharp. Weilai's current revenue is roughly 60% to 70% of Great Wall's, and its gross profit margin and net profit margin in the whole vehicle business are close to those of Great Wall.

Before it was incorporated into Jinshidai and before the development of electric vehicles, Weilai was once known as "Little Great Wall".

The two sides have a high degree of similarity in their business.

"Of course I have this confidence. I bet that Woolai's revenue will definitely surpass Great Wall's within two years. If we're talking about the complete vehicle business specifically, I don't think it will take more than three years. This is the source of our confidence as the current leader in new energy vehicles."

Even in 2023, Great Wall's main sales and revenue still came from the Haval series and pickup truck series, as well as the Tank series, although that thing is now called Weilai.

Their combined annual sales of new energy vehicles don't even equal Dizi's monthly sales, and the sales of the major new energy vehicle brands are almost negligible in the overall picture.

They created a whole bunch of abstract coffee brands, and after a series of executive departures, their marketing methods became even more abstract.

For products primarily targeting men, the fact that Haval hired a feminist spokesperson has likely caused its national brand image to plummet.

To put it bluntly, they've been living off the success of the Haval series for over a decade.

"Your vehicle business revenue will surpass Great Wall Motors' in three years? Mr. Tan, are you that confident?"

On the way back to Tan Jincheng's office after the visit, Wang Fengying had already realized that Tan Jincheng's invitation was not a joke, which could be seen from her husband's attitude.

Despite the simultaneous surge in both sectors amidst full-scale competition, problems have also arisen.

The prices are similar for both brands. Although Weilai is better than Great Wall in terms of service and quality, not all consumers understand quality. Their first impression is that the two are about the same.

Most importantly, Great Wall has been established for a long time and has a solid brand foundation, which is something that Weilai, which has been established for less than ten years, cannot match.

The reason why marketing is not as good as Wei Lai's can be attributed to Tan Jincheng. After all, this founder, who does not understand technology, has marketing skills that can rival those in the internet industry.

What troubles Great Wall the most is that the delivery time of the Yuechi series is something Great Wall can't match.

Except for September and early October this year, when sales exploded and their delivery time encountered some issues, they can guarantee delivery within six weeks of order placement for the rest of the time.

Just like making jianbing guozi (Chinese crepes), two equally popular stalls, yours only produces 20 sets of jianbing guozi per hour, while the stall next door not only produces 30 sets per hour but also maintains quality. You can imagine the pressure.

Weilai has its own unique internal management system, which is supported by big data from internet companies. This is something that everyone in the automotive industry knows and envies.

But who could blame her when the woman who gave birth was her husband, who was dug out from the Great Wall?

If you can't win, you can only find a scapegoat; that's been the case since ancient times.

In 2015, Wang Fengying felt unprecedented pressure.

Even so, she never had the idea of ​​leaving the Great Wall. Even when she came to Ningbo to attend the banquet, it was only for business cooperation and to find out the situation.

Tan Jincheng smiled and said, "While Weilai is growing, Great Wall is also developing. President Wang's doubts are not without reason. You can also take it as me bragging."

"How about this, let's make a three-year agreement. If Weilai's revenue from complete vehicle business surpasses that of Great Wall after three years, we welcome Mr. Wang to join us."

"In addition, as soon as you take office, we will give you 330 million shares of equity incentive."

Only Zhang Li and his wife, along with Tan Jincheng, were in the office. Tan Jincheng's words instantly made the atmosphere a little awkward, and Wang Fengying's expression turned somewhat unpleasant.

Zhang Li, who had been listening in the conversation, smiled wryly upon hearing this: "Boss, can you please stop being so sarcastic? Why did you bring this up at all?"

In August of this year, Great Wall proposed a draft equity incentive plan, which showed that Wang Fengying could receive 330 million restricted shares. However, no one expected that the draft plan would be rejected by the shareholders' meeting.

"Hehe, this isn't just being sarcastic, it's my way of showing my sincerity in inviting President Wang. Our 330 million shares from Weilai are worth more than Great Wall's."

Currently, Great Wall's market value is around 1100 billion yuan, and 330 million shares are only worth about 4000 million yuan. Such a small amount was rejected, which would have been impossible in the past.

When Tan Jincheng heard the news, he found it unbelievable. Could this thing really be rejected by the shareholders' meeting?
It's just a mere 4000 million yuan worth of restricted stock, not direct cash. Take Weilai this year for example, the Yuechi series has seen booming sales, and Zhang Li, the manufacturing manager, deserves much of the credit. Tan Jincheng has already planned to increase the base of his equity incentive in the annual report.

It just so happens that we repurchased a lot of shares during the previous stock market crash.

Good performance should be rewarded. Weilai is one of the few car companies where all senior executives hold shares. Some, like Zhang Yong and Yu Liguo, hold tens of millions of shares, while others hold tens of thousands.

Zhang Li currently holds 50 shares of Weilai, which translates to a market value of just over 600 million yuan.

Although everyone here is well-off, you still need to feed the horse if you want it to run.

On the other hand, full employee stock ownership by senior executives is also a form of publicity for the company's image. If senior executives who control the core data of each department are not willing to hold company stock, how can the company gain the trust of shareholders?

"Don't be angry. Mr. Tan is a bit eccentric in private, but he's still a young man."

Wang Fengying shook her head helplessly. She was indeed a little unhappy, but it wasn't directed at Tan Jincheng. This matter had indeed left a thorn in her heart, making her feel somewhat uncomfortable.

The Yuechi series, which ranks first in SUV sales, is impressive, but that doesn't mean the second-place brand isn't excellent. Haval has also had a breakout year, and its achievements are undeniable.

Tan Jincheng shook his head and said seriously, "I'm serious. You will receive corresponding treatment for making contributions in Weilai. President Wang's achievements are enough to deserve such treatment. President Zhang, don't think I'm deliberately trying to provoke you."

"In addition, I can also give you a sneak peek: the achievements of our Yuechi series this year are enough to upgrade your equity incentive to another level."

Zhang Li looked up at Tan Jincheng, then at his wife, opened his mouth but ultimately remained silent.

“I am absolutely serious about Mr. Wang’s invitation. I don’t expect Mr. Wang to give me an answer right now. You can go back and think about it, considering factors such as family and future career prospects.”

"I'll say it again: the three-year agreement. If my revenue doesn't surpass Great Wall's after three years, then all my words today were for nothing."

Three years later, in 2018, it marked the tenth anniversary of Weilai's founding, and also a year of tremendous change in the industry.

Now that Wei Lai has been in the workforce for ten years, he can barely be considered middle-aged. By then, the common problems of large enterprises will definitely be more serious.

Tan Jincheng needs a new and capable executive like Zhang Fengying to handle some of the company's problems.

Zhao Xinyi might not be able to handle this role.

As for Wei Lai now, he certainly has some minor flaws, but they are tolerable. No company can be that clean, not even a small company with a few dozen people.

Tan Jincheng wouldn't be so fussy; as long as it doesn't affect his normal movements, it's fine.

Wang Fengying remained silent for a moment. Now that things had come to this point, she had to give an answer, whether she was willing to accept it or not.

"Thank you for your high regard, Mr. Tan. I have no intention of leaving my current position. As for your three-year agreement, I cannot give you any answer now. Let's talk about it again in three years."

Tan Jincheng smiled and said, "Of course, and I hope President Wang can forgive my impudence today."

The lack of a formal rejection is the best response. Boss Ying waited for several years to poach Xia Bing, and Lei Jun waited for President Lu until Gionee went bankrupt and he even supported Lu's entrepreneurial venture before Lu finally came along.

Tan Jincheng is willing to wait three years; if he really doesn't come, then Zhao Xinyi will take his place.

Back in the days of Flashpoint's purchasing department, Zhao Xinyi also had an iron-fisted approach.

After seeing Wang Fengying off, Tan Jincheng, somewhat disregarding his image, put his arm around Zhang Li's shoulder and laughed, "President Wei will regret sending President Wang to Ningbo this time."

Zhang Li didn't know what to say, but he was actually quite happy inside. His wife hadn't rejected the boss on the spot, which meant she was leaving room for maneuver. Who would want to live apart if they could?

It's only three years; he can wait that long.

He couldn't persuade his wife too much, because saying too much would involve company secrets. He still had that much professional ethics. But Zhang Li agreed with his boss's statement that Wei Lai surpassed Great Wall.

Having achieved its sales target of 50 vehicles two months ahead of schedule, Weilai's final sales for this year should be around 60 vehicles. With the explosive growth of the new energy vehicle industry, a million-vehicle sales target is not an unattainable goal.

Great Wall's sales target for this year is over 80 vehicles. Based on this figure, the gap between the two is much smaller than last year.

The extra portion represents sales of new energy vehicles.

In addition, in terms of the nature of the business, Weilai, located in a developed coastal city, obviously has more advantages than the inland areas. Moreover, the boss has many other businesses and his network of connections is extensive.

Zhang Li couldn't help but recall the time when his wife asked him if he had anything to say as he saw her off at the airport.

"Following President Tan will be more promising, not only for ourselves, but also for the future generations."

Sitting in the cabin, gazing at the increasingly smaller city of Ningbo below, Wang Fengying was unable to calm down for a long time, her husband's last words echoing in her mind.

Her trip to Ningbo and her close encounter with Mr. and Mrs. Tan Jincheng left a deep impression on her.

It was just a one-month celebration, yet countless business leaders attended in person. Two prominent figures from the automotive industry, who had been making waves this year, also came, along with two well-known figures from the investment circle.

She was also somewhat surprised by Tan Jincheng's invitation, but upon reflection, she felt that this 30-year-old billionaire's grasp of timing and unconventional approach had left a deep impression on her.

Yes, he's still so young. Most importantly, this young man is loyal and treats his subordinates very well.

He could hand over the management of Flash Group to his childhood friend, or lend money to Flash Group's management team facing margin calls during the stock market crash to increase their pledges. Similarly, he could provide a retirement position for those elderly people who are struggling to keep up with the company's transformation.

The company's employee compensation is among the best in the industry, a level of commitment that many entrepreneurs simply cannot match.

"Would you like to come with me to Guangzhou for a stroll?"

After the full moon celebration, Gu Qingqing officially finished her postpartum confinement. Although the baby was still young, Gu Qingqing had to return to work.

The first King of Glory Professional League is already in preparation and will be officially held in Shanghai next summer.

Gu Qingqing, who is returning to work after giving birth, needs a chance to make a formal appearance, and Tan Jincheng thinks that Guangzhou and the Guangzhou Auto Show are a good opportunity.

"Is it appropriate for the child to be so young?"

"Going out for a day or two shouldn't be a problem. Just show up with me and come right back."

The Guangzhou Auto Show will be held from the 21st to the 29th of this month. During this year's auto show, Lotus will be the main focus of promotion, and a grand launch event called "Lotus Night" will be held.

Compared to the lavishly funded Lotus Night, the full moon celebration is nothing.

After thinking about it, Gu Qingqing agreed.

"The sales of the Yuechi A1 should continue to break records this month, right?"

"About right, it will most likely exceed 40,000 vehicles per month."

The Yuechi series has seen explosive sales for two consecutive months, especially the A1, which has been unexpectedly strong thanks to policy support and discounts.

With November just past the halfway mark, the Yuechi A1 has already sold 2.3 units. At this rate, it's highly likely that it will reach a monthly sales record of 4 units.

Wow, SUVs have outsold sedans, shocking the entire automotive industry. The key point is that besides the Yuechi A1 selling well, the Haval H6 is also selling like hotcakes.

The car market in 2015 was truly baffling.

"Speaking of which, domestic brands have developed really well this year, especially in the second half of the year when their market share increased rapidly. The good days for joint venture brands are coming to an end soon."

"It's too early to say that. Japanese brands have rebounded this year, haven't they?"

"It's just a temporary resurgence; the consumption pattern has already changed."

Japanese brands are very competitive worldwide, but when did their sales decline in China begin? Tan Jincheng couldn't quite remember, but it seemed to be around 2020, which isn't many years ago.

Just like Nokia was quickly abandoned by the market after gradually adapting to smartphones, it wasn't that their products weren't good enough, but that consumers no longer needed them.

Gasoline-powered vehicles will not be eliminated from the market, but their market share will definitely decline.

Saturday, October 11.

"Boss, boss's wife, it's been a long time!"

Li Xiang, who had been in Daiying for almost half a year, arrived in Guangzhou a day earlier than Tan Jincheng, and he came to pick him up at the airport today.

Tan Jincheng looked him up and down: "You look a bit thinner, you must be tired."

"Haha, it's not that hard, it's just that I'm not used to the climate and food. But speaking of which, it's been a long time since you and your wife attended an event together. It's an honor for Lotus this time."

That's right. Gu Qingqing, who has stepped back from the limelight, has focused her main energy on her family and hasn't attended any public events for a long time.

"That's right, it's the Night of Lotus, so we have to put on a show."

A Lotus Night event, with a budget of 5000 million yuan, took 400 staff members nearly 120 hours to complete just the on-site setup.

(End of this chapter)