Business

Research Expenditures of Chinese EV Firms are Higher Than Those of Tesla

Published

9 months ago

July 25, 2024

The first-quarter profits of the four automakers show that Chinese electric car businesses with listings in the United States are investing more in research relative to sales than Tesla.

It’s a survival tactic in the very competitive global auto market in China. Both battery- and hybrid-powered vehicles are considered new energy vehicles, and their share of sales has increased significantly to over 40%.

According to Paul Gong, an auto analyst at UBS, many Chinese automakers already spend as much as or more on research and development as a percentage of revenue, which is a considerable rise from many years ago.“In certain cases, even in terms of absolute dollars, it has bypassed.”

Nio, the top-ranked Chinese electric car company with a U.S. listing, allocated over 29% of its income to research and development during the first three months of the year. Compared to Tesla, which had a ratio of 4.2% in the second quarter and 5.4% in the first, that is far greater. The business owned by Elon Musk is renowned for having a low ratio.

Less is known about whether the increased spending will result in sustained competitiveness.

For years, Nio has operated at a loss, and only in the last few months has it begun to receive delivery of its high-end vehicles. The firm has hosted events to showcase its battery services and other innovations in addition to car premieres in previous years. One such event was on automobile “quality” in late June.

At the ceremony, Feng Shen, the head of Nio’s quality management committee, said in Mandarin, “Everyone is talking about involution right now.” He was using a Chinese expression that’s often used to characterize intense competition, particularly in the electric vehicle sector.

Shen stated, “What companies should [compete] on is quality,” and that “there’s nothing you can say if you can’t do a good job on quality.” He outlined Nio’s comprehensive strategy for improving product quality, which focuses mostly on supply chain innovation and new technology.

Shen, an executive vice president of Nio, was previously the president of Polestar, a high-end electric vehicle company in China. Shen has also held quality management positions at Ford Motor in both China and the United States.

In September 2022, Nio inaugurated its second factory in Hefei City, which serves as a production base for other automakers. The plant employs about 2,000 people total, including 756 robots that help automate much of the production process.

Regarding worldwide production, Li stated that Nio would follow the same manufacturing standard but did not provide specific plans for other countries.

proximity of the supply chain The provincial capital of Anhui, located west of Shanghai, is Hefei. China claims the area, known as the Yangtze River Delta, is home to so many factories that a maker of new energy vehicles can locate all the parts they need in a four-hour journey.

In a statement, China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said that it has collaborated with automakers and suppliers to develop hundreds of industry best-practice examples and application benchmarks for smart manufacturing.

With an emphasis on Chinese vehicles, Jing Yang, a director in Fitch Ratings’ Asia-Pacific corporate ratings office, stated that “A key competitive advantage for Chinese companies in China is actually the highly effective or efficient supply chain,”

She pointed out that this can assist Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers in reacting to consumer and market demands faster than conventional automakers.

The U.S.-listed electric vehicle company Zeekr and the Hong Kong-listed automotive behemoth Geely are based in Zhejiang province, another portion of the region.

According to Zeekr’s first-quarter earnings, R&D accounted for 13% of sales. Parent Geely has increased its research spending dramatically over the last four years, allocating at least 4% of revenue to the endeavor. However, the company did not disclose this amount in its first-quarter report.

While the business is working to develop both hardware and software for cars, Geely’s vice president of auto R&D, Ren Xiangfei, stated late last month that the latter can offer more differentiation.

Security, entertainment, and driver-assistance software are all included in cars.

Ren pointed out that because new energy cars have larger batteries than conventional fuel-powered cars, they can accommodate more of these services.

“This will introduce a new concept, the software-defined car,” he declared.

The “Aegis Short Blade Battery,” which Geely introduced last month, passed tests beyond industry standards without blowing up.

It is a competitor to BYD’s “blade battery,” which is credited with propelling the business into the lead position in EVs. The China Passenger Car Association reports that in terms of new energy vehicle sales in the first half of the year, Geely came in second and Tesla third.

According to Ren, the new battery will initially be installed in Geely cars. This will result in an approximate $1,000 rise in production costs above those of competing vehicles.

He stated that because the chemical formula for producing batteries is more developed, it is now more crucial to guarantee consistency in production. “That requires the support of a smart factory.”

Additionally, Geely unveiled the SEA electric car architecture, which it claims enables faster manufacture of various vehicle sizes.

“Vehicle platform is probably the most important thing to look at, and then consistency with their approach,” said Snow Bull Capital CEO Taylor Ogan, who is headquartered in Shenzhen.

It’s critical, he said, to observe that a business is delivering on its promises pretty quickly and that distinct teams are already at work on upcoming product releases. He stated, “I think that’s the clear differentiator.”

Automakers versus IT businesses Research expenditure to sales, or R&D intensity, is a proxy for IT innovation, but UBS’s Gong issued a warning about it.

“If they can sell more cars with better profitability, that basically means their innovative ways are probably right. Some of it may not have cool features,” Gong stated. It might involve systemic cost-cutting.” “Less fancy, but really powerful.”

Xpeng’s first-quarter R&D intensity was 20%. Li Auto’s share was just 11%, but its range-extending automobiles have outsold fully battery-electric cars by a wide margin.

In terms of total U.S. dollars, Hong Kong-listed BYD invested $1.47 billion, or 8.5% of its revenue, in research during the first quarter. That exceeds the $1.15 billion that Tesla invested in R&D during that same period.

Electric car manufacturers are trying to differentiate themselves in the future from CATL and Huawei in the software and battery markets, respectively, according to Jing Liu, a professor of accounting and finance and the director of the investment research center at the Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business.

According to Liu, it is improbable for a company to outperform both suppliers in terms of quality, which implies that automakers would ultimately find it challenging to differentiate themselves in a market where consumers may quickly move between brands.

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AI Startup Anthropic Nears $3.5 Billion Funding Round

Published

2 months ago

February 25, 2025

Archana Suryawanshi

AI Startup Anthropic Nears $3.5 Billion Funding Round

Anthropic, a leading AI startup, is on the verge of securing $3.5 billion in a fresh funding round that could push its valuation to $61.5 billion, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The company, known for developing the Claude chatbot, is reportedly attracting investments from major venture capital firms, including Lightspeed Venture Partners, General Catalyst, and Bessemer Venture Partners.

This funding round surpasses the $2 billion target Anthropic was previously reported to be seeking last month. The surge in investor interest highlights the growing appeal of AI-driven enterprises, with nearly half of all U.S. venture funding in 2023 flowing into artificial intelligence startups.

The strong financial backing also emphasizes the dominance of U.S. AI firms, even as Chinese alternatives like DeepSeek emerge with cost-efficient models that have caught the attention of some investors.

Meanwhile, OpenAI—the company behind ChatGPT—is also in discussions for a substantial funding round that could elevate its valuation to as much as $300 billion, as reported by Reuters.

Anthropic, co-founded by former OpenAI executives Dario and Daniela Amodei, had previously achieved a valuation of around $18 billion following a funding round led by Menlo Ventures last year.

In addition to its fundraising efforts, the company recently introduced Claude 3.7 Sonnet, an advanced AI model designed to enhance response speed and improve step-by-step reasoning. This move aims to strengthen Anthropic’s position in the competitive generative AI landscape.

The funding round was first reported by the Wall Street Journal, while Anthropic has yet to comment on the ongoing investment discussions.

Business

Level Up Your Digital Game with DigiRoads – Training, Strategy, and Success

Published

2 months ago

February 24, 2025

Brand Buzz

Jaipur, India – February 24, 2025 – In the ever-evolving digital world, staying ahead requires more than just theoretical knowledge—it demands hands-on expertise, strategic execution, and real-world application. Recognizing this need, DigiRoads has emerged as a leading force in digital marketing education, offering cutting-edge training programs designed to equip learners with industry-driven skills. Whether you are an aspiring marketer, a business professional, or an entrepreneur, DigiRoads empowers individuals to master digital marketing strategies that drive tangible success.

DigiRoads: Where Learning Meets Real-World Implementation

With the rapid expansion of the digital economy, the demand for skilled digital marketers has skyrocketed. Companies are constantly looking for professionals who can optimize campaigns, analyze data, and execute marketing strategies effectively. DigiRoads was founded with a mission to bridge the gap between conventional education and real-world application, ensuring students not only understand marketing concepts but also implement them through practical training and live projects.

From Humble Beginnings to a Digital Powerhouse

Laying the Foundation: Building Expertise & Delivering Results

DigiRoads was founded in 2015 by two visionary BITS Pilani alumni, who sought to revolutionize digital marketing education. The early years were focused on helping businesses enhance their digital presence through SEO, PPC, and social media marketing.

During this period, DigiRoads achieved:

SEO Excellence: Ranked over 200+ websites on the first page of Google, boosting organic traffic for businesses across industries.
PPC Mastery: Created high-performing ad campaigns that tripled ROI for startups and established enterprises.
Social Media Growth: Launched viral marketing campaigns that increased audience engagement by 150%.

These achievements positioned DigiRoads as a trusted digital marketing partner for businesses seeking data-driven strategies and measurable growth.

The Rise of DigiRoads Classes

As the demand for skilled digital marketers surged, DigiRoads took a significant step in 2023 by launching DigiRoads Classes, a career-focused training institute designed to provide hands-on learning experiences. Unlike traditional training programs that focus only on theory, DigiRoads Classes ensures students actively implement strategies on live projects, preparing them for real-world marketing challenges. The institute offers specialized courses, including SEO Course, PPC Course, Social Media Marketing Course, Performance Marketing, Content Marketing, and Web Analytics. Each program is tailored to industry standards, equipping students with the most in-demand skills.

Since its inception, DigiRoads Classes has successfully trained over 500+ students, many of whom have secured high-paying jobs, internships, or started their own digital marketing agencies. The impact of the courses extends beyond professional growth—students experience enhanced critical thinking, analytical skills, and creative problem-solving abilities. The positive side effects include improved confidence, strategic mindset development, and the ability to adapt to fast-changing digital trends. With expert mentorship, industry-recognized certifications, and job placement assistance, DigiRoads Classes continues to be the top choice for digital marketing aspirants looking to excel in this competitive field.

Shaping Careers with Industry-Driven Projects

DigiRoads has transformed businesses while providing students with the best digital marketing course in Jaipur for real-world marketing exposure. Some of its most impactful projects include:

1. E-Commerce Brand Success

Boosted website traffic by 400% within six months using SEO and targeted PPC campaigns.
Increased online sales fivefold through performance-driven marketing strategies.

2. Real Estate Digital Expansion

Designed a lead-generation strategy for a real estate firm, resulting in a 200% increase in customer inquiries.
Leveraged Facebook & Google Ads to drive high-intent leads and improve retention rates.

3. Healthcare Digital Growth

Developed an SEO-driven content strategy that ranked a healthcare startup in the top three search results for competitive keywords.
Achieved a 60% increase in patient bookings through advanced digital advertising.

Key Achievements

80%+ job placement rate for DigiRoads Classes students.
Trained 500+ professionals, equipping them with real-world marketing expertise.
Helped businesses generate 2+ million organic visitors through advanced SEO.
Executed social media ad campaigns that reached millions of users, significantly boosting brand engagement.

Why Choose DigiRoads?

Unlike traditional training programs, DigiRoads focuses on real-world execution. Students don’t just study digital marketing—they apply it through live projects, hands-on mentorship, and performance-driven learning.

What Sets Us Apart?

Live Digital Marketing Projects – Gain direct experience running SEO, PPC, and social media campaigns.
Industry-Curated Curriculum – Learn from seasoned marketing experts who bring the latest industry insights.
Expert Mentorship & Personalized Training – One-on-one guidance from professionals with years of practical experience.
Internship & Placement Support – Strong industry connections that help students secure internships and job placements.
Industry-Recognized Certifications – Boost career credibility with certifications that employers value.

DigiRoads is committed to producing skilled digital marketers who can excel in the competitive job market. Our structured digital marketing course in Jaipur ensures learners develop a strong foundation in SEO, PPC, content marketing, web analytics, and more.

Start Your Digital Marketing Journey Today!

Whether you are looking to start a career in digital marketing, upgrade your skills, or enhance your business’s online presence, DigiRoads offers the best digital marketing course in Jaipur tailored to industry demands.

At DigiRoads, we don’t just teach marketing—we help you implement strategies that drive real results. Join us and take the next step towards becoming a digital marketing expert.

Visit www.digiroadsclasses.in or email us at info@digiroadsclasses.in for inquiries. Call us at +91-8971129995.

Business

Flipkart Offers Huge ₹26,000 Discount on Google Pixel 9—Grab the Deal Now!

Published

2 months ago

February 20, 2025

Archana Suryawanshi

Flipkart Offers Huge ₹26,000 Discount on Google Pixel 9—Grab the Deal Now!

Tech enthusiasts looking for a high-end smartphone upgrade can now grab the Google Pixel 9 at an unbelievable discount on Flipkart. The e-commerce giant is offering a massive price cut on the flagship Pixel 9, making it a great opportunity for buyers to own this premium device at a much lower price.

Google Pixel 9 Discount Details on Flipkart

The Google Pixel 9 was originally priced at ₹79,999, but Flipkart is now offering the device for ₹74,999, giving an instant discount of ₹5,000. However, additional offers can further lower the price by a significant margin.

Additional Bank Offers

Flipkart is providing additional discounts through select bank offers:

HDFC Bank Credit Card EMI Transactions: Customers using HDFC Bank credit cards for EMI purchases can avail an extra ₹4,000 discount, bringing the effective price down to ₹70,999.

Exchange Offers: Get Up to ₹38,150 Off

One of the biggest attractions of this deal is Flipkart’s exchange offer, allowing users to trade in their old smartphones for an additional discount. Depending on the model and condition of the exchanged device, buyers can get a discount of up to ₹38,150. If the maximum exchange value is applied, the effective price of the Google Pixel 9 can drop to as low as ₹32,849.

Google Pixel 9 Specifications

For those considering the Pixel 9, here’s a quick look at its top features:

Display: 6.3-inch OLED with high refresh rate
Processor: Google Tensor G4 for enhanced performance
RAM & Storage: 12GB RAM, 256GB internal storage
Rear Camera: 50MP (main) + 48MP (ultrawide) dual-camera setup
Front Camera: 10.5MP for high-quality selfies
Battery: 4700mAh with fast charging support
Software: Runs on the latest Android 15 with guaranteed updates for 7 years

The Pixel 9 is available in multiple color variants, including porcelain, obsidian, Peony, and wintergreen, giving users stylish options to choose from.

How to Avail This Offer on Flipkart?

To grab this deal, follow these steps:

Visit Flipkart: Go to Flipkart’s official website or app.
Select the Google Pixel 9—choose your preferred color and variant.
Check for Bank Offers: Ensure you apply the HDFC Bank discount if eligible.
Opt for Exchange (if applicable): If you have an old smartphone, select the exchange option and check the discount available for your device.
Proceed to Payment: Complete the transaction and enjoy your new Google Pixel 9 at a heavily discounted price.

Is This the Right Time to Buy?

With a massive discount of up to ₹26,000, this Flipkart deal makes the Google Pixel 9 an irresistible buy for those wanting a premium smartphone with flagship-level performance, AI-powered cameras, and Google’s software experience. If you have been considering an upgrade, now is the perfect time to grab the Pixel 9 at its lowest price yet.