Core Insights - The article highlights the evolution of the electric logistics vehicle industry over the past decade, focusing on the journey of the company "地上铁" (Di Shang Tie) and its founder Zhang Haiying, who recognized the potential of electric vehicles in reducing costs for logistics companies, particularly in urban distribution scenarios [1][3][8] Company Development - Founded in 2015, Di Shang Tie aimed to promote the electrification of urban logistics vehicles, despite the initial lack of market interest and infrastructure [1][3] - The company has developed a comprehensive asset operation solution that includes vehicle leasing, charging, maintenance, and recycling, transforming the logistics vehicle sector into a standardized and efficient operation [1][4] - By 2025, Di Shang Tie operates in over 200 cities with a fleet exceeding 180,000 vehicles, marking significant growth from its early days [2][4] Financing and Valuation - Di Shang Tie has completed nearly 10 rounds of financing, with notable investments from prominent firms such as Ningde Times, leading to a valuation exceeding $2 billion, positioning it as a unicorn [2][4] Market Trends - The penetration rate of new energy logistics vehicles has rapidly increased, with a reported 37.55% year-on-year growth in sales, reaching a penetration rate of 29.19% in the first eight months of the year [8] - The logistics sector is expected to experience a high growth cycle until at least 2030, driven by market demand and technological advancements [8][9] Business Model - Di Shang Tie's business model focuses on providing usage rights and service guarantees rather than vehicle ownership, differentiating it from traditional rental models [5][6] - The company emphasizes a data-driven approach to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve vehicle longevity, with a reported 20% reduction in total cost of use (TCU) through its leasing model [6][7] Industry Challenges and Opportunities - The logistics industry is characterized by fragmentation, with a significant number of small logistics providers, creating opportunities for companies like Di Shang Tie to consolidate and optimize operations [4][5] - The shift towards electric logistics vehicles is supported by evolving retail demands and the need for efficient supply chain solutions, necessitating collaboration across the entire logistics ecosystem [9]