The rise of internet entrepreneurship has cast a shadow over the automotive industry. Over the past two years, He Xiaopeng has been striving to get the entire sector to move beyond the "PPT car" phase. On October 12, Xiaopeng Motors' production line officially went offline, marking the first electric vehicle from the Chinese internet car-making force to receive approval from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology for production and sales. This milestone signifies that the internet-driven car builders are no longer just pitching ideas on paper but have finally stepped out of the PPT era and into reality.
This is a significant breakthrough for the new internet forces in China’s automotive scene. While mass production may seem like a small step for traditional automakers, it represents a giant leap for internet-based startups. Previously, many internet companies only stayed at the conceptual stage, creating "PPT cars." Now, with Xiaopeng's first real car rolling off the assembly line, the internet's influence on the automotive world has taken a tangible form.
To understand the significance of this moment, consider the iPhone’s launch a decade ago. At the time, many doubted its potential, believing it was just another smartphone. Yet, the iPhone revolutionized not just mobile technology but also the way people interact with digital services. Similarly, the first electric car from an internet startup today marks the beginning of a new era—one where hardware, software, and user experience converge to create entirely new possibilities.
A friend once asked me if I would buy the car. My answer was uncertain. The first generation might be imperfect, but it's the start of something bigger. Just as the iPhone transformed the mobile landscape over the years, we can't yet predict what the future of internet cars will bring. But one thing is clear: the journey has begun.
He Xiaopeng emphasizes that building a car is no easy task. Tesla, for example, took over a decade to establish itself, facing constant challenges with production and scalability. For internet companies, the path to manufacturing a car is even more complex. Xiaopeng Motors had to overcome three major hurdles: passing rigorous tests, establishing a scalable supply chain, and ensuring smooth delivery to customers.
So why did Xiaopeng succeed when others struggled? According to He Xiaopeng, four factors contributed to their success. First, China’s well-developed auto industry made integration easier. Second, pioneers like Tesla paved the way, providing valuable insights. Third, his team was highly committed and capable of executing every plan. Finally, he credits his good fortune—knowing the pitfalls ahead allowed them to avoid common mistakes.
While Xiaopeng is the first to reach this milestone, other internet car startups are close behind. However, most still lack the official “production permit†from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Despite this, the industry remains in its early stages, with many challenges ahead.
Xiaopeng’s first-generation cars are aimed at tech enthusiasts and early adopters who are willing to tolerate imperfections in exchange for innovation. These users will help refine the product through continuous iteration. A second-generation model is expected next year, targeting a broader audience.
He Xiaopeng believes the future of the automotive industry lies in redefining the balance between Internet, electric, and car technologies. Currently, the industry views internet electric cars as 60% car, 30% electric, and 10% internet. But in the future, this ratio will flip: 60% internet, 30% electric, and 10% car.
The journey from 0 to 1 is just the beginning. Like the first iPhone, the initial version may seem basic, but it lays the foundation for future innovations. As the Internet, electric systems, and car technology continue to evolve, new application scenarios will emerge. The car of tomorrow could become a mobile living space, integrating smart services and seamless connectivity.
Although the road ahead is long, the momentum is growing. With each step forward, the internet’s influence on the automotive industry becomes more evident. In the coming years, we may witness a transformation that reshapes how we think about mobility and transportation.
In conclusion, He Xiaopeng’s journey reflects the broader shift in the automotive landscape. From the decision to leave Alibaba to leading Xiaopeng Motors, his vision has driven the company forward. Today, as the first production car rolls off the line, the future of internet cars looks promising. The challenge now is to maintain quality and build a strong corporate culture that supports sustainable growth. After all, as He Xiaopeng puts it, “If we don’t do it right, we shouldn’t mix it.â€
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