The Youngest Son of Sunyang (Reborn Rich)

[197] One foot forward 1

In 2002, when the European Union officially began using the Euro, my first move was to merge the research centers of Ajin Motors and Sunyang Motors into one, called the HW Automotive Research Institute. To see the prototype of the first car reflecting my intentions, I visited the research facility early in the morning with Chairman Song Hyeon-chang, President Cho Dae-ho, and Representative Oh Se-hyeon.

The exhibition hall of the research center was filled with tense expressions from the design center staff, designers, and researchers, waiting for us. Not only people but also a compact car sparkled with a glossy shine, waiting for us.

M21-1 The nameplate with the project name, meaning the first mini car of the 21st century, was attached. The moment I saw the new car, a score of 85 popped into my head. It felt like a fashion magazine spread when the photographs were laid out.

The design center manager and chief researcher, standing closely beside the management, began explaining. "We chose an overall round design. As it's a compact car, it was a choice to provide a sense of stability. However, as you move towards the back, the silhouette and character line adopt an aggressive design. It's tense and dynamic."

"We also pursued the pure joy of driving by selecting a low position, providing a feeling of being closely connected to the road."

"With such a small-sized cute car, unexpectedly thrilling driving is anticipated due to the gap it presents."

While listening to their explanations, I started to inspect the car. With an engine displacement of 796cc, automatic 4-speed transmission, and a 2-seater coupe, it was everything I had asked for. However, the car in front of me wasn't immediately captivating, but it was cute and pretty enough to receive compliments.

When the inspection of the interior was thorough and the explanations from the developers ended, others started to examine the car. "Is a convertible version out of the question?" When asked quietly next to the chief researcher, he turned into a perplexed expression. "To meet European safety standards, we couldn't avoid pressure on manufacturing costs. We had to exclude it from the design phase because it simply didn't make economic sense." I sighed lightly with regret.

After everyone finished inspecting the car, the developers looked even more tense. Now it was time for the company's executives to evaluate. The moment any negative remarks came from their mouths, an incomparable nightmare of the relentless schedule awaited. The timeline was set to release it in the fall. If they say "start over" today, it would truly be a murderous schedule to deal with.

All eyes were on Chairman Song Hyeon-chang. Wasn't he the witness who had brought Ajin Motors up to the second place in the domestic market, no matter what anyone said? He was also the person who devoted himself to innovative car development. He was ahead of his time, even releasing a 2-seater convertible sports car in Korea, despite facing tremendous opposition. Even though it was just assembly.

He slowly spoke up. "You did well. Everyone worked hard." Chairman Song Hyeon-chang comforted the relieved developers by patting their shoulders.

"Everyone, good job. Go home now and spend time with your families. We don't know what hardships tomorrow may bring." President Cho Dae-ho evaluated but also acknowledged their efforts. "Well, let's have a drink and chat."

President Cho led us, including Chairman Song, outside. In the meeting room of the research center, with teacups in front of us, we started talking.

Especially when Chairman Song remained silent and just sipped his tea, President Cho, appearing anxious, spoke first. "Chairman, I'd like to hear your honest opinion..."

"Huh? Wasn't I sincere earlier?" When casually tossed, President Cho couldn't erase his skeptical expression.

"Is that so?"