Entertainment mogul: Starting his business with the internet

Chapter 488 Coconut
The afternoon sun was shining brightly, and a spring breeze swept through the ancient city.

Song Ci stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling window, overlooking the bustling traffic below.

There was a gentle knock on the office door, and Secretary Jian Ning's voice came at just the right moment: "Chairman Song, President Wen has arrived."

"Come in," Song Ci replied, turning around to sit behind her desk.

Several months later, Wang Fengying sat across from her boss in this office again.

It has been almost half a year since the last somber meeting due to the difficulties in the photovoltaic business. Now, the composure in his eyes has replaced the gloom of the past.

"Chairman Song, let me first report to you on the construction progress of the Devon headquarters science and technology building." Wang Fengying opened the project report, her voice clear.

"The foundation and underground structure have been completed, and the main steel structure is currently being hoisted. According to the current progress, the building is expected to be fully completed and delivered by next spring, or at the latest by May."

Upon hearing this, Song Ci smiled, her gaze seemingly piercing through the French windows to the bustling construction site several kilometers away.

Two headquarters buildings, distinct in style yet equally imbued with power, seemed to appear before my eyes:

The stately and magnificent Tengda Technology Building and the futuristic Dewen Science and Technology Building stand side by side on the capital's skyline, complementing each other.

That was not only a symbol of the strength of the two companies, but also a significant achievement in his business empire, enough to become a legendary tale.

"Very good!" Song Ci nodded and instructed, "Maintain the progress, but never slack off on quality and safety."

"Don't worry, the project team is monitoring the whole process," Wang Fengying assured, then changed the subject with an excited tone, "Chairman Song, several months have passed, and the company's photovoltaic energy storage business has finally made significant progress."

Song Ci perked up: "Oh? Tell me more about it."

The predicament of "internal and external troubles" from six months ago is still fresh in my mind, and I am very curious about how Wang Fengying broke the deadlock.

"The first step is to establish an overseas presence to counter the anti-dumping and countervailing duties imposed by Europe and the United States," Wang Fengying reported in a clear and organized manner.

"We investigated many places in Southeast Asia and finally chose Penang, Malaysia to establish our first overseas photovoltaic module factory. The policies there are stable, the labor costs are advantageous, and the infrastructure is relatively complete."

The first phase of the factory construction is nearing completion, and the production lines are undergoing debugging. Mass production is expected to begin by mid-year. Exporting products from here to the European and American markets will avoid high tariff barriers.

After a brief pause, meeting the boss's approving gaze, he continued, "In addition, following your suggestion, we acquired 'Solatech GmbH,' a long-established mid-sized photovoltaic integrator in Germany."

A preliminary distribution and service network has been established within the EU. Although the initial investment was substantial, it laid the foundation for directly reaching end customers and enhancing brand power.

"What about the technical aspects?" Song Ci pressed, for this was the foundation for a long-term foothold.

"A cold hydrogenation technology research team has been established, led by several experts recruited from top domestic research institutes, to simultaneously advance the design to circumvent Siemens' patents, but this will take time."

Wang Fengying frankly stated, then raised her voice, "However, we have made a breakthrough in the localization of equipment! We have acquired a controlling stake in 'Jingchuang Technology,' a leading domestic photovoltaic equipment company."

Their new generation of string welding machines and PECVD equipment prototypes have rolled off the production line, with testing parameters comparable to international best practices, while reducing costs by more than 30%. Once implemented, this will significantly reduce reliance on overseas equipment.

Song Ci nodded in satisfaction; Wang Fengying's execution had indeed not disappointed him.

In just six months, not only was a solution found, but also multiple areas of progress were achieved, and the photovoltaic sector, which had been a weak point, finally showed signs of catching up and even surpassing.

"Well done, Mr. Wang. Your thinking is clear and your execution is excellent," Song Ci praised generously.

Wang Fengying felt reassured and greatly encouraged. She pressed her advantage, saying, "Chairman Song, let's talk about the electric vehicle business again. Our first high-end model has completed all design and development."

As he spoke, he pulled up a set of exquisitely rendered 3D images from his portable tablet and turned to Song Dynasty poetry.

In the image, a streamlined sports coupe is poised to go, combining power and elegance.

Song Ci's gaze was immediately drawn to it.

With its low-slung and wide stance, the front of the car, though closed off, exudes a strong sense of sportiness and futurism through its sharp lines and deep air intakes.

The long, slender LED headlights are integrated with the sloping roofline and frameless doors. The waistline rises sharply from the front wheel arch and blends seamlessly with the slightly upturned ducktail spoiler, making it highly recognizable.

"The design is outstanding! It combines luxury, sportiness, and a sense of technology, which is in line with its high-end positioning."

Once she received approval, Wang Fengying explained in detail: "The design team's goal was to create a 'flowing sculpture'."

In terms of performance, it is equipped with a self-developed high-performance permanent magnet synchronous motor, featuring front and rear dual-motor four-wheel drive, a combined power output exceeding 550 kilowatts, a peak torque of 1000 Nm, and an estimated 0-100 km/h acceleration time of under 3.5 seconds.

Switching to the screen to display performance parameters: "In terms of battery, it uses high-nickel ternary lithium with the highest energy density currently available, with a capacity of 120 kWh. The CLTC operating range is expected to exceed 450 kilometers."

"Not bad." Song Ci nodded repeatedly. "How was the price set?"

"We're going exactly as you planned, focusing on the ultra-high-end market." Wang Fengying said excitedly.

"Considering both cost and brand positioning, the final price of this car will be no less than 60 yuan, directly competing with or even surpassing some traditional luxury brand flagships."

Song Ci tapped the image on the tablet: "Pricing must match quality, cost control and quality control must keep up, and consumers must feel that they are getting more than their money's worth."

"Understood." Wang Fengying solemnly replied, then paused for a moment before asking, "Chairman Song, this is the first tram manufactured by Dewen, which is of great significance."

As is customary, we need a catchy brand name that reflects our positioning and aspirations. We'd like to ask you to name it.

Upon hearing this, Song Ci placed his hands clasped in front of his abdomen and fell into deep thought. The office fell silent for a moment, with only the faint sounds of the city outside the window.

A few minutes later, his eyes suddenly lit up, and his tone was firm and full of interest: "How about calling it 'Quantum E1'?"

Wang Fengying tilted her head slightly, revealing an expression of listening and contemplation.

“'Quantum' is a cutting-edge scientific concept that represents breakthroughs and leaps, and it carries a sense of technology and mystery, which perfectly reflects the high technology and disruptive innovation of this car.”

Song Ci enthusiastically explained: "'E' stands for Electric, highlighting the electric attribute, which is concise and direct."

The number '1' signifies the first model, a pioneering work, and a milestone. Taken together, 'Quantum E1' symbolizes our ambition to usher in a new era of electric mobility, like a quantum leap.

Wang Fengying quickly calculated in her mind: To be honest, "quantum" is a bit abstract and high-end for automotive products, and market acceptance may need to be cultivated.

However, the interpretation of Song Dynasty poetry does indeed imbue the name with profound meaning and technological foresight, perfectly aligning with his long-standing admiration for technology and the brand image of Devon Manufacturing.

Suppressing his personal preferences, he smiled in agreement: "Quantum E1, what a fantastic name!"
With its scientific rigor and clear focus on electrification, this vehicle showcases its advanced technology and unique positioning, sure to attract market attention.

Song Cizhi smiled smugly, quite satisfied with the naming: "I do have some experience in naming."

With the naming decision made, Wang Fengying shifted the topic to a deeper level of technological planning: "Chairman Song, for the sake of long-term competitiveness, the company has established a battery research institute in Donghai."

Over the past six months, we have poached many senior engineers from Panasonic and several leading South Korean battery companies, and are now focusing our efforts on tackling solid-state battery technology.

"However, the technological barriers of solid-state batteries are too high, with many difficulties in everything from material systems to production processes. According to the latest assessment from the research institute, the earliest we can produce a mature product that can be commercially mass-produced is the end of 2015, or even 2016."

Song Ci nodded in understanding. Scientific and technological research and development has its own inherent laws; it cannot be rushed.

“I understand. Technological research and development cannot be forced; laying a solid foundation is the most important thing. You are in full charge of this matter. If you need people, money, or resources, just bring them directly. I only want results. Go ahead and do it.”

This unwavering trust warmed Wang Fengying's heart, and she nodded solemnly: "Thank you for your trust, Chairman Song. We will definitely do our best."

As the report drew to a close, Wang Fengying offered her final idea: "Chairman Song, there's one more thing."

Tesla has already introduced the first generation of Autopilot assistance features in its vehicles. Although it's still relatively basic, this is clearly a core area of ​​future competition, and Devon Autos cannot afford to fall behind.

With a piercing gaze, she suggested, "Tengda Technology is among the world's top in artificial intelligence, deep learning, and big data processing."

I'm wondering if we could collaborate with Tenda to build an intelligent driving laboratory?

Leveraging Tenda's AI algorithms and supercomputing advantages, we aim to rival or even surpass Tesla, developing our own autonomous driving platform.

Song Ci did not hesitate at all, knowing that autonomous driving is the decisive battleground for future intelligent electric vehicles, and Tenda's AI technology is indeed a unique advantage.

The collaboration between the two major groups is exactly the effect he hoped to see when he was developing a diversified industrial portfolio.

"Approved!" Song Ci decisively agreed. "This is a great idea, internal collaboration, and complementary strengths. I will personally speak with Zhang Yong to arrange this."

Have the strategic investment department or Yang Bowen's team prepare a detailed draft cooperation plan and expedite the process.

Upon hearing this, Wang Fengying's face immediately broke into a bright smile, and all the pressure of reporting transformed into full confidence and motivation.

"Thank you for your support, Chairman Song! Please rest assured that with these plans and support, our team is confident that by this time next year, 'Quantum E1' will be perfectly launched, and we will definitely make a great start for Devon Manufacturing!"

At the same time, Chu Jingzhao pushed open the dormitory door, only to find the room empty.

During graduation season at Peking University's Guanghua School of Management, a mix of sadness at parting and anxious anticipation for the future prevails, with most roommates attending job fairs or interviews.

At this moment, the immense joy of receiving the Tengda offer slowly faded. Sitting at his desk, Chu Jingzhao calmed down, and details he had overlooked during the interview surfaced in his mind.

The interviewers, especially Mr. Chen, seemed uninterested in asking questions, and it was more like they were going through a routine process.

When the results were announced, President Zhou's smile was very professional, but deep in his eyes was a complex emotion that was hard to describe.

He wasn't stupid; after a little thought, he vaguely guessed the reason.

The prestigious name of "Peking University Guanghua School of Management" might also be associated with the richest man's words of "Good luck" in the lobby...

Chu Jingzhao gave a wry smile. The luck and background that got him the offer from Toutiao Video probably outweighed his own less-than-satisfactory performance today.

"So, getting in is just the beginning!" he murmured to himself, his eyes gradually hardening.

"Once you're in, the real test is how to establish yourself and prove that you deserve this position and the name 'Guanghua'."

After calming myself down, I began to seriously plan for the future.

His job is in platform content operations, which focuses on execution, data analysis, and daily maintenance. This is his area of ​​expertise and his only asset for future livelihood.

In a place teeming with talent and perhaps still prejudiced against those with connections, one must produce impeccable results.

He studied major video websites in China, including Youku, iQiyi, and LeTV. Although Toutiao Video was the industry leader, it still faced considerable pressure.

Nowadays, all major platforms are pushing for differentiated competition and urgently need high-quality content to improve user stickiness.

“This is my window of opportunity.” A sharp glint flashed in Chu Jingzhao’s eyes.

The key is to quickly clarify the thought process: In the initial stage, you must calm down and do your best to complete every tedious data analysis task and operational report assigned to you.

Furthermore, actionable optimization suggestions should be made regarding "what risks should be avoided when purchasing or producing content in the future."

Only in this way can we fight for a voice.

The ultimate goal is to refine the long-developed differentiated content strategy into a solid operational proposal that superiors cannot easily refuse, combining it with the practical experience and data accumulated in the early stages!

Thinking of this, a long-lost fighting spirit surged into Chu Jingzhao's heart. He suddenly opened his laptop, the screen lit up, reflecting his focused face.

On the desktop, the document "Graduation Thesis - First Draft" stands out prominently. This is not only the key to graduation, but also the "qualification" for future promotion at Toutiao Video.

Document Title: Data-Driven Vertical Content Strategy and Its Effectiveness Evaluation: An Empirical Study Based on the Creation of the "Radiance" and "Base Point" Dual Theaters on Toutiao Video.

Chu Jingzhao pondered for a moment, then placed his hands on the keyboard and wrote down some new ideas in his mind, intending to ask his mentor for advice the next day.

The Radiance Theater focuses on youth, inspiration, and growth themes, highlighting "high-IQ youth" and "hardcore growth," distinguishing itself from the melodramatic and painful youth dramas that flood the market.

Key Point Theatre focuses on short dramas about social realities, human choices, and the fate of ordinary people, emphasizing the strong dramatic tension and realistic concern of "one choice, changing a life".

My fingertips tapped incessantly on the keyboard, sometimes flowing with inspiration, sometimes pausing to furrow my brow in deep thought.

Before he knew it, the sky outside the window had completely darkened. Chu Jingzhao was completely immersed in his own world, with only the light from the screen illuminating his serious and young face.

Just then, the phone screen on the table suddenly lit up and vibrated. Chu Jingzhao was startled and snapped out of his deep thought.

He looked up and rubbed his sore eyes. When he saw the WeChat notification, he couldn't help but smile gently. It was a message from the little girl next door who had grown up following him around since childhood.

Coconut: Brother Zhao, did your interview go well today?

Chu Jingzhao tapped his finger: "Successfully. I got the offer from Tengda."

He paused, then added, "Are you out of school?"

The message was replied to almost instantly.

Coconut: Brother Zhao is awesome! No wonder he's a top student at Guanghua University!

Looking at the text and cute emojis jumping on the screen, Chu Jingzhao could almost see the little girl jumping for joy on the other end of the phone.

He smiled and shook his head, then started chatting with her casually.

The tension of the daytime interview and the fatigue from thinking seemed to gradually dissipate in this relaxed chat.

(End of this chapter)