2003: Starting with Foreign Trade

Chapter 719 The Three Giants of Weilai Automobile

The capital city is truly huge.

Tan Jincheng always had this feeling whenever he came to the capital: the distance from Yingu Building to BAIC Building was not too far, less than 40 kilometers.

However, the two districts, from the bustling CBD to the factory area, seem like two different worlds.

Including traffic jams, it took nearly two hours to get to the BAIC Building. The driver was still Lu Ruifeng's relative, Old Lu, while Li Yaohui sat upright in the passenger seat.

Old Lu was still as talkative as ever: "President Tan hasn't been to the company for a long time."

"Haha, it's true that I haven't had time to come over for a long time, but I did come to the capital last month. How has Uncle Lü been lately?"

"Hehe, I know him. I've seen President Tan on TV. As for the old man's health, thanks to President Tan, he's doing very well."

In 2009, the average annual salary of employees in Beijing was 48444 yuan, which averaged to about 4000 yuan per month. Lao Lü's monthly salary was 6000 yuan, and with other benefits, he could earn about 80,000 yuan per year.

He doesn't actually drive for more than a week each month; he basically just stays at the company and relaxes. This kind of retirement-style job is incredibly comfortable.

It would be reasonable to say that it was thanks to Tan Jincheng that they were able to succeed.

Old Lu is very satisfied with this job. Although he doesn't have much to do usually, he spends most of his time at the company, just in case Tan Jincheng comes and needs his car. He is quite conscientious.

"Haha, no, no, it's all determined by your own abilities, Uncle Lü."

Tan Jincheng was always very polite to the driver. Although he had only met Lü Ruifeng's relative a few times, each meeting was quite interesting. While he respected Tan Jincheng, he did not try to curry favor with him.

It's more like the way an elder treats a younger person; he has a cheerful personality, and chatting with him is quite interesting.

"Mr. Tan, would you like some more Daoxiangcun pastries this time? If so, I can go and buy some for you later."

Old Lu still remembered this; during their few meetings, he helped Tan Jincheng buy things twice.

"Haha, no need. My wife is pregnant, and my sister is in school. We don't have much food at home. But if Uncle Lü has time, you can buy me some so I can take it back as a gift."

"No problem, I'll have Minister Li come with me later."

"Uncle Lü, you can just call me Xiao Li."

Old Lu's address of "Minister Li" stunned Li Yaohui, who was quietly watching the show. Normally, people would just call him that, but now that the boss was calling him "Uncle Lu," he didn't dare to respond.

It was the same place where Zhang Yong and I met last time.

Zhang Yong and Hu Zhengnan were already waiting here.

Today is Saturday, April 4.

Hu Zhengnan arrived on April 1st and stayed in the capital for two days, mainly waiting for Zhang Yong to arrive.

The appointment of Yu Liguo was met with a full-fledged response, with the two most important figures at Weilai Auto and key personnel from the Future Research Institute all present.

"I wonder if the leaders of BAIC and the relevant authorities will beat me up if they see me."

Upon entering the private room, seeing Zhang Yong chatting happily with Hu Zhengnan, Tan Jincheng couldn't help but tease him.

Zhang Yong and Hu Zhengnan were stunned for a moment, then burst into laughter.

Since its establishment, Weilai Auto has poached a number of management and technical talents from BAIC, starting with Zhang Yong. They really try to squeeze every last drop of profit from one company.

Yu Liguo, who poached BAIC's talent this time, can be considered the future of BAIC. It remains to be seen whether Jihu will be able to emerge as smoothly as it did in the previous life after he was poached.

The group had only been chatting for a few minutes when Yu Liguo arrived.

It was the weekend, and Yu Liguo, dressed casually, was taken aback when he entered the private tea room. He had thought that Tan Jincheng would be the only one there, since Zhang Yong had helped Tan Jincheng make the appointment earlier.

"Mr. Yu, it's been a long time."

Zhang Yong, acting as the middleman, quickly welcomed Yu Liguo in.

He was transferred to Futian later, and his first internship was also at BAIC. However, Yu Liguo had not yet joined BAIC at that time, and the two were not familiar with each other.

It was Zhang Yong's former boss who acted as matchmaker, and after several private meetings, the two gradually became acquainted.

Yu Liguo smiled and nodded, then looked at Tan Jincheng.

Whether in the internet or physical world, it's hard for anyone not to be curious about Tan Jincheng. It's only been six years since he started in 2004, or at most five years.

In just five years, he went from having nothing to owning an internet company and a comprehensive conglomerate worth tens of billions of dollars, a feat that has amazed everyone.

Yu Liguo was equally curious about Tan Jincheng. As someone in the automotive industry, he was surprised by the stunning debut of the Yuechi A1, which sold nearly 20,000 units in just over two months after its launch. Its ability to compete head-on with joint venture brands such as Honda and Toyota was beyond everyone's expectations.

Yu Liguo used to work for Z and is now a high-ranking executive in a state-owned enterprise in the capital. He knows much more information than many people, and he knows more about the details of the meeting between the two top leaders and Tan Jincheng, according to rumors circulating outside.

Don't underestimate those two skills. As long as Tan Jincheng doesn't do anything reckless, he won't have any major problems. Moreover, he's making his business bigger and bigger, so his life is basically secure.

Damn, this guy is really good. Both his exes and current partners have a good impression of him. He's going to have a good life for at least another ten years.

It was precisely for this reason that Zhang Yong finally became interested in Weilai Auto after several attempts. With no worries about the future and the company thriving, joining at this time would make him the dean of Weilai Auto's most important automotive research institute.

Yu Liguo's transition from Z to business is undeniably rich in experience, and the intricacies of his life are best left unsaid. However, he still possesses a strong drive within him.

"Mr. Yu, please have a seat. This is Hu Zhengnan."

Tan Jincheng was also sizing up Yu Liguo. Yu Liguo, who had long held a high position, exuded an imposing aura. He was dressed casually, but the jacket he was wearing was quite something.

For a period of time, many internet celebrities on Douyin (TikTok) made videos of themselves wearing jackets and carrying glasses to impersonate school leaders.

"That's great. Having a leader who is proficient in business makes it much easier for the research institute to handle many official relationships."

Tan Jincheng nodded secretly. When looking for senior executives, it's not just about their management skills, but also their network of contacts. Hu Zhengnan can't be the dean now, not because he lacks ability, but because he doesn't have enough contacts.

In addition, Hu Zhengnan was still a bit inexperienced in handling foreign affairs at this time. Yu Liguo should train him for a few years before making any decisions.

"Hmm? Director Hu from Longchuang?"

Yu Liguo asked with some doubt, he had just thought that Hu Zhengnan was Tan Jincheng's responsibility.

Hu Zhengnan smiled and extended his hand, saying, "Yes, that's right. President Yu has also heard of Longchuang. It's our honor."

"Haha, Longchuang is quite famous in the industry now; what, Director Hu, are you planning to seek a better job elsewhere?"

Hu Zhengnan's appearance at this event couldn't possibly be for business purposes; he's likely been poached by Tan Jincheng.

"Hehe, I'll be working as Mr. Yu's assistant from now on. I hope Mr. Yu will give me lots of guidance."

Hu Zhengnan chuckled somewhat sheepishly. After meeting Yu Liguo, he felt that Yu Liguo's aura made him the most suitable person to be the dean of the Weilai Automotive Research Institute.

“The three of you are now in charge of Weilai Motors. I hope that one day you will be described in the news as the three giants of Weilai Motors.”

Zhang Yong, Yu Liguo, and Hu Zhengnan were all prominent figures in the field of new energy vehicles in their previous lives.

Looking at the three people sitting around the tea table, Tan Jincheng couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. He had built the framework for Weilai Auto's new energy vehicles.

Unlike Lei Jun, the reason why Xiaomi, founded by this guy, can attract so many well-known figures is because he is already a very influential figure in the internet industry and has his own personal charisma.

Starting a business online is fast and easy, and it's also easy to make a fortune.

The real economy is different. It's not so easy for big names in the real economy to be brought under your name. Many big names in the real economy, especially in the technology field, may stay with one company for their entire lives.

Although Weilai Auto is currently enjoying great popularity, its overall strength is still only average. It is not easy for it to recruit well-known big names in the automotive industry. Strictly speaking, Zhang Yong and Hu Zhengnan cannot be considered big names in the automotive industry at this time.

Yu Liguo was the first well-known figure recruited by Weilai Auto. The celebrity effect was very useful in increasing the company's brand awareness.

Zhang Yong, Yu Liguo, and Hu Zhengnan exchanged glances, their eyes filled with excitement.

Although the three of them are not wealthy, as high-end talents, money is not their pursuit. If they were not trying to make a name for themselves and build a career, who would come to Weilai Automobile?
The thriving Weilai Motors is still in its early stages, making it the best platform for their business development.

Tan Jincheng's description of the three automotive giants was exactly to their liking.

"Haha, as long as President Tan isn't afraid that a few of us will ruin the company, that's fine."

Yu Liguo didn't stand on ceremony. Since he had already agreed to take up the post of lieutenant, there was no need to put on airs.

"Haha, Mr. Yu is joking. In this life, isn't it all about making a splash? If Wei really messes things up, then the four of us can just start over."

If I hadn't been reborn, these things would never have belonged to me, so what if they were lost?

"Wow, Mr. Tan is so generous. I won't say anything more then. When will you start? Mine might be a little later."

Yu Liguo slapped his thigh and said.

"There's no rush. The land is still in the public notice phase. Beicang District will help with some of the preliminary preparations. Just like Mr. Hu, you can start working after May Day."

The land is about 1000 acres. Even though it is located near Jiufeng Mountain and there are not many factories, there are quite a few residents. The demolition work will take some time.

Yu Liguo thought about it and figured that there wouldn't be any problem after May Day. If he acted quickly, he could get a few days of rest before May Day and take the kids out for a trip.

"No problem, it will definitely be fine after May Day." The handover work had actually been underway for a long time after the decision was made. The rest were just organizational personnel matters, which wouldn't be a big problem even if they couldn't be dealt with in a short period of time.

Yu Liguo's decision to go to Weilai Automobile this time was a huge one; he gave up all his identities and started anew.

To outsiders, Yu Liguo is a highly controversial figure. Putting aside his recent job at the Weilai Automotive Engineering Institute, his previous two work experiences are difficult for people to understand.

A top official in a prefecture-level city was transferred to a state-owned enterprise during the prime of his life, without any promotion in rank; in fact, he was demoted, even though he was transferred from a remote city to the administrative center.

But regardless, this change is tantamount to cutting off his career path, and he will have to start all over again if he wants to advance in the future.

Although both are within the system, state-owned enterprise cadres and government officials are two different concepts. Outsiders do not know the reasons behind Yu Liguo's actions. Now that he has been recruited as a lieutenant from BAIC, it will likely cause a new round of controversy.

Tan Jincheng wanted this effect. He wanted to keep a low profile this year, but Weilai Auto didn't allow it, or rather, high-cost companies like car manufacturers don't allow a low profile.

The higher the buzz surrounding a brand, the more attention it can generate.

"I visited Xiaomi a couple of days ago. I don't know if the three of you have heard of it. It's the company that Lei Jun, the former CEO of Kingsoft, recently founded. It's located in Yingu Building."

All three were taken aback, not quite understanding why Tan Jincheng brought this up at this time.

Zhang Yong picked up the conversation, saying, "I've heard of Lei Jun from Kingsoft, but I don't know much about Xiaomi. Is this Lei Jun starting a second business?"

"Yes, Mr. Lei's newly established company has an interesting partnership system."

Without me even having to ask, Yu Liguo readily agreed, so it was time to show some sincerity.

The other party has made such a great sacrifice, so we should at least provide some security for his future life. Lai Yiu-fai is right, things like house options can be provided.

The housing issue was easily resolved. When the Flash Residence was being built, an area was designated for townhouses. These townhouses were not officially sold, but were intended to provide a more comfortable living environment for the senior executives who would join the company later.

The residential communities that Jinpeng Industrial plans to develop will also be built according to this design plan, and these stockpiled villas can be considered as a kind of asset of the company.

"They are an internet company, and our company's organizational structure is somewhat different from theirs. But in any case, to show our welcome to the two of you, we can also offer stock options."

Currently, Zhang Yong owns 5% of the stock options in Weilai Auto. These options will automatically convert into 3% of the shares when Weilai Auto goes public in the future.

Before going public, companies can distribute dividends if necessary, based on their profitability.

All of this was clearly stated in the contract. Otherwise, Zhang Yong wouldn't have worked so hard.

"I'm not very educated and I'm rather unsophisticated. It's understandable that I've made a name for myself, but I also need to make money, so I'll just say what I really want to say. I hope you two won't mind."

Yu Liguo couldn't help but smile wryly. This was really direct. Shouldn't the distribution of shares and stock options be discussed separately? This was the first time he had encountered four people sitting together like this.

Zhang Yong didn't react much; he was already used to his boss's way of doing things.

The boss doesn't mince words when it comes to things that can be put on the table.

"Mr. Zhang's stock options in Weilai Auto are currently 5%, which will be converted into 3% of the listed company's shares after Weilai Auto goes public. I can offer you both the same standard as Mr. Zhang. I wonder if you are satisfied with that."

For a car company to grow big, it definitely needs its own financing platform, and it was inevitable that Weilai Auto would go public.

Currently, Weilai Auto has four major shareholders. Before the listing, Tan Jincheng does not plan to introduce any new shareholders, nor does he intend to allow the other three major shareholders to increase their shareholding ratios.

Tan Jincheng plans to allocate 15% of the shares for employee stock ownership to attract more outstanding talents to join the company.

For most outstanding talents, equity is often a very attractive thing, and this approach works well across all industries.

"How could I have any objections? Thank you for your generosity, Mr. Tan."

Zhang Yong had informed Yu Liguo beforehand, and Yu Liguo knew that Tan Jincheng would give him some stock options. He was somewhat prepared, but he didn't expect Tan Jincheng to be so generous.

No wonder Zhang Yong worked so hard.

If Weilai Auto achieves its sales target for this year, it will easily reach a sales volume of 10 billion yuan. While this is not comparable to large companies like BAIC, it will still place it among the mid-sized automakers in the industry.

The problem is that even if BAIC sells 1000 billion yuan worth of products in a year, it has nothing to do with him.

Tan Jincheng directly transferred stock options and future shares of a car company with starting sales of tens of billions of yuan to them, and it was a very generous 5%, which greatly exceeded his expectations.

In Yu Liguo's imagination, a 2% or 3% would already be quite good.

Hu Zhengnan was stunned for a long time before he realized what was going on. Damn, there's such a good thing.

Before coming to the capital, he thought that Tan Jincheng buying his 2% stake was already the full amount of extra compensation. With that ten million, he didn't even mention the specific treatment, assuming it wouldn't be bad.

Who would have thought that such good things would happen after arriving in the capital?

"I've already taken advantage of Mr. Yu, so what objection could I possibly have? Thank you, boss, thank you, Mr. Yu."

Hu Zhengnan's aura has not yet fully developed; he is still quite immature and finds it difficult to conceal his emotions. Both stock options and equity are a huge shock to him.

You could clearly tell from his tone that his breathing was a little rapid.

This is a huge fortune, enough to feed several generations.

"Haha, why are you thanking me? Just thank the boss."

Yu Liguo laughed too. Hu Zhengnan, who was in his thirties and had been focusing on technology all his life, seemed rather endearing in front of this seasoned veteran.

Zhang Yong, who also comes from a technical background, is not much younger than Hu Zhengnan, but his extensive front desk experience makes him appear much more composed.

The boss treated the two new employees equally, and he had no objections.

He is a professional manager. His own interests are important, but the company's interests are even more important. Only when the company develops better and better can his value be reflected.

Establishing a research institute and offering substantial returns to attract new technical talent is a necessary step in the development of Weilai Automobile. As professional managers, we should not be dissatisfied just because our power has been divided.

A love triangle is the most stable relationship.

FlashTech is managed by three managers who cooperate while maintaining competition. Tan Jincheng replicated this organizational structure at Weilai Auto.

Next, Tan Jincheng discussed with the three of them the responsibilities of Yu Liguo and Hu Zhengnan, as well as the plans for the research institute.

"Mr. Yu is still in charge of new energy vehicles and making future plans. Here I would like to emphasize again that we are very serious about new energy vehicles and are not doing this haphazardly for the sake of subsidies."

"This is the trend that Weilai Auto has followed since 2015."

Of course, in addition to the new energy vehicle project, Yu Liguo also needs to be responsible for the management of the research institute and the establishment of its organizational structure.

The planned Weilai Automotive Engineering Institute is built according to the BYD Automotive Engineering Research Institute model, comprising a total of 10 departments including vehicle design, system integration, powertrain, chassis, etc.

Everything, including land use and recruitment, is designed according to the highest and most advanced current standards.

In addition, regarding new energy vehicles, the research institute also needs to cooperate with Weilai Intelligent Driving, whose basic framework has already been established.

When it comes to intelligent driving, the three major traditional automakers, Geely, Chery, and BYD, are not doing very well. BYD's intelligent driving seems so-so, and Geely was even worse before acquiring Meizu.

The fundamental reason is that traditional car companies still have significant differences in their internet thinking. Tan Jincheng did not incorporate the intelligent driving system into the research institute for this reason, to avoid them being unable to adapt to the local conditions.

"Mr. Hu is currently responsible for following up on the development of new models in the Yuechi series, as well as coordinating with Yangzi Motors. We have also made many plans for pickup trucks."

Zhang Yong chimed in, "Yes, our plan this year is to transfer all the current important designs to the research institute. We hope you two will put in the effort for this."

Zhang Yong is in charge of the most important aspects of Weilai Auto's business, including dealership establishment, sales, and marketing. Yu Liguo is responsible for the establishment of the research institute and future planning. Hu Zhengnan continues his work on gasoline vehicle design.

Each of them reported directly to Tan Jincheng in their respective areas of expertise.

"There's one more thing I need to tell Mr. Yu in advance."

The four of them chatted for several hours, even ordering takeout to eat at the teahouse. When they had finished discussing the specific plans, Tan Jincheng said to Yu Liguo with a slight apology.

Today marks the first high-level meeting of the research institute. Yu Li and Hu Zhengnan learned that the Weilai Automotive Research Institute benchmarks everything against BYD, and even has higher standards, having started researching intelligent driving as early as 2010.

I felt both shocked and excited.

It must be said that although this new boss knows nothing about technology, he is really forward-thinking in terms of strategic planning.

In addition, he also knows how to leverage his strengths and avoid his weaknesses, entrust professional matters to professionals, delegate authority fully, plan with great foresight, and know how to be steady and not aggressive. Is this the reason for his success?

Tan Jincheng's expression made Yu Liguo sense something was amiss: "What aspect is Mr. Tan referring to?"

"Hey, that's how it is. The establishment of the research institute is an opportunity for Weilai Auto to promote itself. We'll probably have to use President Yu's reputation to help with the publicity."

"If any of the press releases do not meet Mr. Yu's expectations, please point them out in a timely manner."

With his legendary career path—starting in Z, then working for a state-owned enterprise, and finally returning to business (private enterprise)—it's no wonder he encountered Tan Jincheng, a boss who loves to create hype.

The controversy surrounding Dizi's withdrawal from the internet has just started to generate buzz. Before it escalates further, let's capitalize on its popularity and capitalize on the momentum created by Toyota's recall.

Yu Liguo was speechless for a moment, then laughed and said, "That's really Mr. Tan's style. I'm happy to serve you."

Zhang Yong couldn't help but chuckle. He had experienced this scene before; back then, Flash's online trolls had deliberately smeared him.

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(End of this chapter)