"It is truly admirable that the French have devised such a solution to address the issue of recoil in artillery. Their attempt to obscure its capabilities clearly indicates a desire to ensnare the Empire once the war commences," remarked Gustav Krupp.
Qin Tian nodded in agreement. The performance of the French 75mm field gun on the battlefield was indeed astonishing. However, even this remarkable weapon could not salvage the declining fortunes of the French army.
"Krupp, knowing the method the French employed, is it feasible for us to develop a similar artillery piece and apply these principles to enhance the rate of fire of our own cannons?" Qin Tian inquired.
"Your Highness, it should pose no significant problem. Given Krupp's technological prowess, we can certainly achieve this," Gustav Krupp replied with pride.
Although the French solution to the recoil issue was ingeniously crafted, German technology was equally formidable. Upon learning of the French method, they could swiftly replicate and even improve upon it.
"Then that would be excellent. I hope that once the war begins, our artillery will demonstrate our strength to the French and other adversaries," Qin Tian expressed his anticipation for the forthcoming conflict.
"Your Highness, it will certainly be so," Gustav Krupp affirmed resolutely.
Qin Tian's visit to Krupp had proven to be immensely fruitful. Not only did he secure an accelerated development of larger-caliber naval guns, but he also initiated the creation of new infantry artillery. However, the most significant achievement was the partnership formed to establish the Deutsche Waffen- und Munitionsfabrik, marking their entry into the light weaponry sector.
As he bid farewell to the Krupp couple, Qin Tian departed from the company.
"If the standard equipment of the German army could be altered as a result, its combat effectiveness could potentially be further enhanced. This would undoubtedly facilitate our victory over adversaries in future conflicts," Qin Tian mused silently.
In his quest to bolster the combat capabilities of the German military, Qin Tian spared no effort. From the navy to the army, he explored every conceivable strategy. If, despite his diligence, the German army were to lose the war, it would be an utter travesty.
After his meeting with the Krupp couple, Qin Tian did not linger in Berlin for long. A few days later, he received a notification from Paul Daimler, the general manager of Daimler Automobile Company, summoning him to Stuttgart.
Daimler had been experiencing rapid growth, with its motorcycle sales soaring. The demand had not only ignited a sales frenzy in Germany but had also extended to other European nations and even the United States. Many young people sacrificed everything to purchase Daimler motorcycles. In this context, even Qin Tian's donation of motorcycles worth fifty million marks seemed trivial, given that just two models could generate substantial profits for Daimler.
"Your Highness, welcome to Stuttgart!" Paul Daimler greeted with a broad smile. Although Daimler had become a subsidiary of the Deutsche Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Company, thus reducing the Daimler family's profits to five percent, this fraction now yielded far greater returns than before.
"Mr. Daimler, it's evident that you're in high spirits!" Qin Tian replied with a smile.
"Indeed, Your Highness! You cannot imagine the fervor surrounding our products. The factory is operating on three shifts, yet we still cannot meet market demand. A new factory is under construction and is expected to commence production in three months, which should alleviate some of our pressures," Paul Daimler explained.
To meet market demands and further increase its market share, Daimler had embarked on an aggressive expansion of production capacity to secure as much of the market as possible before competitors could introduce similar products.
Qin Tian nodded; expanding production capacity was imperative. This strategy would enable them to capture more of the market and increase profits. However, the development of new products could not be neglected. A company cannot sustain itself solely on one product.
"How is the development of new products progressing?" Qin Tian inquired.
"Your Highness, as per your request, we have commenced research on the second generation of motorcycles. Mr. Maybach is currently leading the development of this new product. The progress is swift, and we expect to complete the second generation by next year," Paul Daimler replied.
Although he held some reservations about the urgency of developing new products, believing that their motorcycles were not at immediate risk from competitors, he dared not voice his objections and simply complied. Although developing new products would require significant funds, the current profits of the company were more than sufficient to support this endeavor.
Qin Tian nodded. "The motorcycles I personally donated to the military should also be expedited in production."
"Of course, Your Highness." Despite the potential strain on production capacity, Paul Daimler had no objections. Qin Tian's status had significantly changed; he was no longer merely a prince who had acquired Daimler but had now become the heir to the Empire. The military, being an important ally, naturally deserved priority in their requests.
Accompanied by Paul Daimler, Qin Tian once again visited Daimler Company. This time, he bypassed the offices and headed straight for the research and development department. His primary purpose for visiting was to inspect the new product, as well as the upgraded version of the "Phoenix" car, which was officially named after Daimler.
"Your Highness, welcome! This is the new generation of automobiles developed at your request. I must admit, it is nothing short of a work of art!" William Maybach exclaimed with excitement. He believed that once this car hit the market, it would create a tremendous sensation, providing a significant boost to the entire automotive industry and establishing Daimler as a powerhouse beyond motorcycles.
Qin Tian nodded, gazing at the vehicle parked in the research department. Although it did not yet match the cars of the future, it already possessed many of their defining characteristics.