16 Comments
Feb 8Liked by Kevin Xu

Loved the article. I think the year in “To put the timing in context, Tesla was incorporated in July 2023, a few months after BYD bought Qichuan Motors.” Is incorrect.

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Keep writing about founders in china. Very impressive

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This is so so good. Great research paired with great writing.

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great piece on Wang Chuanfu's origin story, thanks for putting this together!

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Feb 21Liked by Kevin Xu

Thanks for the interesting bio of the man behind the business, naturally it reminds me of Morris Chang and his approach including the errors made. It is worth noting both start with an understanding of the materials and are humbled by their treatment of people. I'm curious to know more about the supply chain they have, which suppliers are they dependant on? Obviously, TSMC cannot do what they do without ASML and I wonder what BYD relies on from others who keep the innovation in technology going?

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Thanks for this article. The best investment made in this story is the one that Wang's older brother made in his sibling! He must be so proud of his 弟弟.

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Outstanding article. Thanks for writing it!

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Excellent article! I will follow Mr Wang Chuanfu closer.

I was born in Brazil but have lived abroad for several years, so I only learned about BYD when I heard about the iconic Ford factory in Brazil getting closed and then "rented" to BYD by the local government. On another occasion, I saw the most popular TV host making an advertisement for BYD on his show, and then I knew this brand was earnest about the Brazilian market.

BYD reached first place in electrical car sales in Brazil in 2023 by far, with 4,512 units (46% of total electric cars sold), surpassing Volvo, which sold only 1,843 (19% of total sales) in the same year. BYD will start selling the Dolphin Mini in a few weeks. It will hit an even bigger market because the cheapest gas engine car in Brazil costs around R$ 71.990,00 (USD 14,400) without any accessories (not even an AC!), and the Dolphin Mini will cost around R$ 99,800 (USD 20,000) for the basic (with an AC).

If they can convince Brazilians to switch to electric, they will have access to a market of around 2 million cars sold yearly.

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Feb 8Liked by Kevin Xu

"King [to] Transmit Fortune"

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Very interesting. Thanks!

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loved this one mate!

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Thanks for this write up. I've provided a link in my post on BYD

https://substack.com/inbox/post/143482629

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A great story by a fuzzy tailed rodent...!! Thks

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This a superb article, Kevin. I am in the process of writing up a new automotive piece and will definitely make sure all of my readers have a chance to read it.

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