HiPhi founder Ding Lei made his first public appearance at the company’s Shanghai headquarters after the announcement of a six-month production shutdown, a move that triggered widespread concern among stakeholders.
In an internal meeting with employees, Ding apologized for the situation, acknowledging shortcomings in his approach compared to counterparts from internet companies. He expressed determination to turn the company around within a three-month window, emphasizing the need for a shift in strategy.
See also: Human Horizons’ HiPhi Brand Halts Production Amid Operational Challenges
Ding revealed that several companies have expressed interest in HiPhi, signaling potential acquisitions and investments. Despite the challenges ahead, he urged employees to unite and “fight one more time.”
“These last few months have been a low point in life for me,” Ding admitted, highlighting the personal toll of the company’s struggles. He acknowledged the social impact of the production halt and expressed optimism that weathering the current challenges would be a turning point for HiPhi.
See also: Li Auto CEO Calls for M&A Mechanism Amid HiPhi Production Halt
The production halt, first reported by local media outlet Jiemian on February 18, has raised concerns among car owners about the continuity of promised services. A recent image circulating online showed a new HiPhi Y model being sold at a significantly discounted price, reflecting the brand’s uncertain future.
In response, HiPhi announced a major restructuring of its day-to-day operations, prioritizing user services and vehicle after-sales support. While certain services such as charging stations and free charging services will be temporarily suspended, efforts are underway to ensure the continuity of essential features.
