Core Viewpoint - The controversy surrounding GAC Aion's employee stock ownership plan has been exaggerated by some media outlets, leading to misinformation and damaging the brand's reputation, while highlighting the chaotic information dissemination in the current media landscape [1][15]. Group 1: Employee Stock Ownership Plan - The core issue of the employee stock ownership plan controversy lies in the malicious misinterpretation by some media outlets [2]. - GAC Aion's stock incentive plan has precedents, with a previous implementation in March 2023 covering 14% of employees and recognized as a benchmark case for state-owned enterprise reform [2]. - The company has clarified that the employee stock ownership plan is designed based on its development and capital market environment, and it is actively exploring various capital operation plans [2][4]. Group 2: Company Operations and Legal Actions - GAC Aion has stated that its operations are normal and that it has initiated legal actions against those spreading false rumors [4]. - The company has reported significant R&D investments, exceeding 7.9 billion yuan in 2024, with over 3,200 new patent applications [4]. - GAC Aion's solid-state battery research has entered the engineering prototype testing phase, achieving an energy density of over 400 Wh/kg, with plans for vehicle integration by 2026 [5]. Group 3: Market Position and Future Plans - GAC Aion is transitioning towards the consumer market, launching models like AION LX Plus and AION V Plus, while also planning to release new models in 2024 to enhance driving experience [6][7]. - The company has installed over 15,000 fast-charging stations across 202 cities in China, leading in charging network deployment [6]. - GAC Group aims to achieve a sales target of 2 million units for its self-owned brands by 2027, with GAC Aion playing a crucial role in this strategy [10]. Group 4: Financial Performance and Industry Challenges - GAC Group's total revenue for 2024 is projected to be approximately 106.79 billion yuan, reflecting a year-on-year decline of 17.05%, with a significant drop in net profit [13]. - The company faces dual pressures from declining sales in traditional joint venture brands and the competitive landscape of the new energy vehicle market [13]. - The ongoing challenges in the Chinese new energy vehicle market are exacerbated by external factors such as Tesla's upcoming Model 2 and new tariffs from the EU [13]. Group 5: Reform and Market Adaptation - GAC Aion's reform path represents a deep exploration of state-owned enterprises adapting to market competition, with various transformations since 2021 [14]. - The company has successfully attracted over 100 strategic investors during its A-round financing, indicating market confidence in its reform efforts [14]. - The narrative surrounding the controversy emphasizes the need for rational observation of reforms, as the company aims to enhance its value through stock incentives and strategic investments [14][16].