XPENG(US:XPEV) Jing Ji Guan Cha Wang·2025-11-20 07:28Core Insights - Xiaopeng Motors appointed Chen Yudong, former president of Bosch China, as an independent non-executive director, effective January 1, 2026, for a three-year term with an annual salary of $80,000, indicating ongoing transformation in its supply chain [2][4] Group 1: Appointment and Background - Chen Yudong, aged 64, is recognized as a key figure in the automotive supply chain, holding degrees from Chongqing University, the University of Michigan, and Michigan State University [2] - He has extensive experience in the automotive sector, having worked at Delphi Automotive and Bosch, where he served as president for 13 years until his retirement in January 2024 [2][3] - Under Chen's leadership, Bosch China saw sales grow from 37.3 billion RMB in 2010 to 132.1 billion RMB in 2022, with a compound annual growth rate of 11% [2] Group 2: Industry Transformation and Strategy - Chen Yudong has been proactive in adapting to the automotive industry's shift towards software-defined vehicles, restructuring Bosch China to focus on smart driving and cost reduction strategies [3] - Following his retirement, Bosch restructured its automotive business into "Bosch Intelligent Transportation," enhancing decision-making capabilities in China [3] Group 3: Impact on Xiaopeng Motors - Xiaopeng Motors has shown signs of recovery, with a gross margin of 13.1% and a reduced loss of 380 million RMB in its latest quarterly report, aiming for breakeven in Q4 [4] - Chen's appointment is expected to improve Xiaopeng's supply chain management and procurement efficiency, addressing previous issues highlighted by partners like Volkswagen and former executives [4][5] - The board of Xiaopeng Motors now includes experienced figures from the automotive industry, indicating a strategic move to enhance management and operational effectiveness [5]