Core Viewpoint - The automotive industry is undergoing significant transformation with a focus on electrification, intelligence, and connectivity, leading to increased competition and innovation pressures, particularly in the Chinese market [3][4]. Group 1: Industry Trends - The Chinese automotive industry is experiencing a reshuffling phase after explosive growth, with intensified competition across the supply chain [3]. - The rapid pace of technological innovation and product iteration in China is creating both challenges and opportunities for component manufacturers [3][4]. - The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is prompting companies to address challenges related to range, safety, and cost [4][8]. Group 2: Company Strategies - The company is focusing on technological innovation rather than price competition, aiming to enhance performance while managing costs [3][4]. - The introduction of specialized products, such as the first mass-produced oil for oil-cooled electric drives, demonstrates the company's commitment to improving efficiency and extending vehicle range [4][9]. - The establishment of a new energy technology center in China and the expansion of battery laboratories indicate the company's investment in local R&D capabilities [4][7]. Group 3: Partnerships and Collaborations - The company is transitioning from a traditional supplier role to a collaborative partner, working closely with customers to co-create solutions and address challenges in the electrification transition [5][6]. - Collaborations with OEMs in areas like electric drive transmission oils and thermal management fluids are designed to accelerate product development and market entry [5][6]. - The company is leveraging its global presence and local market insights to support Chinese automotive manufacturers in their international expansion efforts [7]. Group 4: Commercial Vehicle Electrification - The company recognizes the necessity of electrifying commercial vehicles as part of its long-term strategy, building on its success in the passenger vehicle segment [8][9]. - The development of high-performance lubricants and coolants specifically for electric commercial vehicles aims to enhance system performance and reduce operational costs [9]. - The company's new strategy emphasizes the importance of new energy vehicles (NEVs) across various sectors, including passenger and commercial vehicles, as well as energy storage and fast charging solutions [9].

Core Viewpoint - The commercial vehicle industry is facing intense competition, leading manufacturers to focus on cost reduction and efficiency improvement, which poses significant challenges to their supply chain systems. Castrol, a leader in oil technology with 126 years of history, aims to navigate this efficiency revolution in the industry [1]. Group 1: Market Dynamics and Strategy - The Chinese market operates at a distinctly faster pace compared to other regions, necessitating that Castrol be closer to customers and respond more quickly to market changes [4]. - Castrol established a technology center in China in 2010, which has become crucial for understanding local needs and driving global innovation [4][6]. - The company has positioned itself as a leader in the electric vehicle oil market through a deep integration into the local ecosystem, which is essential for addressing the complexities and rapid iterations of the Chinese market [6]. Group 2: Product Development and Innovation - Under the "Forward" strategy, Castrol has launched a series of lubricants specifically designed for electric vehicles, showcasing its early and deep investment in this area [8]. - By collaborating closely with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) during the hardware development phase, Castrol has significantly shortened product development cycles, allowing for rapid market response [8][10]. - Castrol's innovative products, such as the first mass-produced oil-cooling electric drive fluid launched in 2021, enhance cooling efficiency and transmission efficiency, addressing core user pain points [8][10]. Group 3: Competitive Positioning and Value Proposition - In a competitive landscape focused on cost reduction, Castrol recognizes that sustainable success lies in enhancing customer value rather than merely competing on price [12]. - The company aims to provide comprehensive solutions that optimize costs while showcasing unique advantages, aligning with the broader industry goal of value enhancement [13]. - Castrol's strong brand power and marketing capabilities, along with its global network, support its unique value proposition and facilitate partnerships with Chinese manufacturers as they expand internationally [15][16]. Group 4: Future Outlook and Commitment - Castrol's strategy is clear: leveraging its global technical expertise and local investments to drive innovation, replace price competition with value recognition, and empower Chinese partners in their global endeavors [17]. - The company is committed to playing a key role in the ongoing transformation of the commercial vehicle industry, particularly in the electric vehicle segment, by focusing on technological innovation and comprehensive value solutions [17].