"Your Highness, the time has been arranged. Mr. Paul Daimler, Mr. Wilhelm Maybach, his son Karl Maybach, and the principal investor of Daimler, Mr. Emil Jellinek, are all awaiting your arrival in Stuttgart," Karl von Jonalett informed Qin Tian.
"Very well, let us prepare to depart for Stuttgart at once!" Qin Tian nodded in agreement.
"Of course, Your Highness."
As Qin Tian's ventures continued to flourish, and Emperor Wilhelm II's perception of him improved, Karl von Jonalett began to believe that Qin Tian was destined to become the Emperor of the German Empire. While this possibility seemed remote at present, Karl held steadfast to the conviction.
Qin Tian's journey to Stuttgart was primarily aimed at acquiring the Daimler company. Although both Daimler and Benz were significant players in the German automotive industry, they remained relatively small as automobiles were still a luxury for the privileged few. Their circumstances were precarious.
In this era, few, aside from Qin Tian, could have envisioned the brilliant prospects of the automotive sector. After founding the German Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Company, Qin Tian aspired to acquire either Daimler or Benz to rapidly equip his company with the capability to produce various motor vehicles. With his financial backing and keen insights into the future of the automotive industry, he was poised for monumental success.
Qin Tian targeted Daimler for acquisition rather than Benz, primarily because Benz was flourishing while Daimler faced a decline following the death of Mr. Daimler. Although their 'Phoenix' model showcased excellent performance and aesthetics, they lagged in competition against Benz, leading to escalating losses. Under these circumstances, the likelihood of Qin Tian successfully acquiring Daimler was significantly higher.
Moreover, Daimler held patents for motorcycles, which presented a simpler and less costly manufacturing process than automobiles. Qin Tian planned to produce heavy-duty military motorcycles and three-wheelers to secure army contracts, and subsequently develop jeeps and military trucks, ultimately advancing to armored vehicles and tanks. The addition of such military vehicles would further bolster the combat capabilities of the already formidable German army, enhancing their prospects for victory in future global conflicts.
Daimler's headquarters, located in Stuttgart, appeared modest compared to the automotive giant that Benz had become.
On May 12, 1906, Qin Tian and Karl arrived at Daimler in Stuttgart. The shareholders and executives had been alerted and were waiting for Qin Tian at the entrance.
"Is this Daimler? Soon to merge with Benz and become one of the world's foremost automotive manufacturers?" Qin Tian mused, observing the small factory and dilapidated three-story office building.
"Your Highness, welcome to Stuttgart. It is our honor to host you at Daimler," said General Manager Paul Daimler, the late Mr. Daimler's eldest son, who inherited much of the company's shares.
"Mr. Daimler, it is a pleasure. I have always admired Gottlieb Daimler and believe his inventions, including the automobile and other patents, hold groundbreaking significance. Soon, these innovations will shine brightly!" Qin Tian expressed with reverence.
Upon hearing Qin Tian's admiration for his father, Paul Daimler's face broke into a broad smile.
Subsequently, Qin Tian shook hands with the other executives at Daimler. Guided by Paul Daimler, he received a brief tour of the company. It was undeniable that the automotive manufacturing industry was still quite primitive, far from the high level of automation that lay ahead. While the 'Phoenix' model may have seemed appealing to contemporary eyes, Qin Tian found it rather unattractive.
After the tour, Qin Tian joined Paul Daimler and the others in the conference room. They had an inkling of Qin Tian's intentions; despite his youth, he had already become a business legend throughout Germany and Europe, with the German Lottery Company he founded now being the most profitable in the nation.
Given Daimler's precarious situation, they were not opposed to a potential acquisition by Qin Tian.
"Gentlemen, I believe you have deduced the purpose of my visit?" Qin Tian smiled.
"Your Highness, do you wish to invest in Daimler?" Paul Daimler inquired.
"Not quite. I intend to fully acquire Daimler, aiming to obtain at least eighty percent of the shares!" Qin Tian declared.
"A complete acquisition?" The faces of the Daimler executives paled. Daimler was their collective passion and labor. If Qin Tian were to take full ownership, what would remain of Daimler as they knew it?
"Gentlemen, you are all well aware of Daimler's current predicament. Your longtime rival, Benz, is rapidly advancing while Daimler stagnates. The market share is continuously being consumed by Benz. It won't be long before there is no place for Daimler in the automotive market."
Although Qin Tian's words were somewhat exaggerated, it seemed that the situation was indeed unfolding as he described. This was undoubtedly a catastrophe for them.
"Upon my acquisition of Daimler, you will continue as the company's management. Mr. Daimler, you will remain the General Manager; Mr. Maybach, you will continue to lead new product development. Mr. Jellinek, your prior investments will translate into substantial profits."