Recently, I have been dealing with the matter of studying abroad and applying for a visa. I only need one document to submit the application, but the efficiency of overseas processes is really slow. Waiting is painful, but during this painful period, I have started to reflect on my current work and industry, and I want to record my thoughts. The following are just my personal opinions, limited to my perspective in the field of work, and I hope to discuss them with relevant experts.
Evergreen Industry#
I have always believed that entrepreneurs or business managers should not limit their vision to the current tasks at hand. Just like in the early development of the automotive industry, the classic case of Ford. I can understand the challenges that various brands face in improving the speed of cars, but in that era, making cars more accessible seemed to be the key to the industry's development. In the eyes of Ford (or the result of my overinterpretation), this was not just an automotive industry, but a "manufacturing industry". Standard and efficient manufacturing processes reduced the average cost of a product and accelerated its market penetration.
So I can't help but wonder, in this day and age, should the automotive industry only focus on performance and design?
✅Cars➡️Transportation#
Ultimately, from the perspective of end users, cars as a product solve the fundamental need of transportation from point A to point B. In this regard, the speed and difficulty of transportation are probably the first-level issues that need to be optimized.
Difficulty can be filled by product pricing, charging infrastructure, and autonomous driving; speed can be improved through factors such as range, acceleration, and reliability. So are other features important? Or should they be the main focus for major manufacturers? How much do interior comfort, infotainment features, and in-car entertainment contribute to the industry's progress? There is an analogy that may not be appropriate, is it like the relationship between Windows XP and a tomato garden theme pack 20 years ago. The tomato garden theme pack may have a positive impact on users' enjoyment and emotional orientation, but what happens when Win7/Win10 appears? Where is its value then?
❌Cars➡️Supply Chain#
In fact, I have always been afraid that OEMs see themselves as supply chain integrators.
Domestic new energy vehicle brands are theoretically competitive, but there are few performances that drive industry progress. I attribute this problem to the focus of everyone's attention. Most car manufacturers' creativity comes from suppliers, which leads to the awkward situation where the whole vehicle OEM is trapped in supply chain management. The reason why I say it's awkward is because there is a vicious positive feedback loop. That is, intense market competition ➡️ wanting to quickly stand out ➡️ not enough time for long-term technological accumulation ➡️ creating non-essential product highlights ➡️ increasing supply chain complexity ➡️ involving more procurement and management experiences ➡️ while also bringing a more competitive market. In simple terms, not focusing on solving core problems, getting caught up in a loop, and the operating costs of the company keep increasing.
Are there any OEMs focusing on "transportation"?#
That's all for now, I'll look for more and continue later.