Release of Alpha 01

As the brisk winds of January 2002 swept through Japan, the landscape of the semiconductor industry was marked by both opportunity and challenge. The focus was on Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography (EUV) technology, a field critical to the next generation of semiconductor manufacturing, yet one that had not seen a standalone company emerge in Japan due to the enormous collaborative efforts and investments required.

Shin recognized the strategic importance of EUV technology for future advancements in the semiconductor arena. Aware of Japan's unique approach—wherein major technological strides were being made through consortia rather than individual companies—Shin saw an opportunity not just for acquisition but for strategic collaboration.

Amid the cold yet clear days of the new year, Shin convened with KiShin's top brass to map out a strategy. The focus was clear: to navigate the intricate landscape of Japan's EUV technology initiatives and identify potential partnerships or investments that aligned with KiShin's long-term goals.

Understanding the complexity and collaborative nature of EUV research in Japan, Shin and his team dedicated a significant portion of their budget to this venture. They earmarked $200 million, a substantial sum that underscored their commitment yet was allocated with KiShin's characteristic financial prudence. This budget was intended not for outright acquisition but for investing in, or partnering with, the key players in Japan's EUV scene, particularly those involved in consortia like the Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography System Development Association (EUVA) or Selete's EUV program.

The strategy was multifaceted. KiShin aimed to leverage these investments to gain access to cutting-edge research, secure intellectual property rights, and foster synergies with existing research teams. Shin was particularly focused on ensuring that any financial commitment was balanced with clear, strategic gains—be it technological advancement, market positioning, or talent acquisition.

Negotiations were approached with a blend of respect for the existing EUV research framework and a clear articulation of KiShin's value proposition. Shin personally led the discussions, emphasizing KiShin's desire to contribute to and accelerate Japan's EUV technological advancements while respecting the collaborative ethos that had defined the field.

The ensuing talks were of diplomacy and strategy, as KiShin navigated the complexities of negotiating with consortia rather than individual entities. Shin's approach was grounded in building long-term relationships, offering KiShin's resources as a catalyst for mutual growth rather than attempting to absorb or dominate the existing structures.

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As KiShin carved out its niche in the semiconductor and aerospace sectors, the unveiling of its first car, "Alpha 01," marked its bold entry into the automotive industry, following its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show months earlier.

Despite KiShin being a newcomer to the automotive scene, the buzz was undeniable. Thousands in Japan, having glimpsed the car in popular KiShin racing video games like "Need for Speed" and "Gran Turismo," were eager to see it in real life.

The design of "Alpha 01" stood out with its aerodynamic build, aimed at enhancing fuel efficiency and speed—a stark contrast to the typical car designs of 2001. Shin, leveraging his insights into future trends, had crafted a vehicle that resembled a sports car more than a traditional sedan.

Yet, when KiShin revealed the price tag of 2.7 million yen (around $24,000), the reaction among potential customers in Tokyo was one of disbelief and skepticism, bordering on criticism:

Some customer expressed: "2.7 million yen? They must be joking. It's just a car designed after a video game, after all."

Others also have unfavorable opinions: "KiShin thinks they can just step into the market and command these prices? It's pure arrogance."

This sentiment reflected a growing perception that KiShin was out of touch with the average consumer's financial reality. Despite this, KiShin had broader strategic plans. The "Alpha 01" was but the first step in a long-term vision to diversify the automotive market. Shin understood the initial backlash but remained undeterred, viewing "Alpha 01" as a premium model that would pave the way for more accessible versions in the future.

Shin and his team were already plotting the next phase: a line of models designed to cater to a broader customer base with more affordable price points. This future range was intended to democratize the innovative features and design elements introduced by "Alpha 01," ensuring that KiShin cars could be a viable option for a wider segment of the population.

The lack of immediate profits from the KiShin car didn't faze Shin in the slightest. His dive into the automotive industry was fueled by a personal passion rather than a straightforward business calculation. Shin's love for sports cars wasn't new—it was a carryover from his past, a lifelong dream that he was now in a position to fulfill.

Owning a car business was more than just a venture for Shin; it was a personal quest. He envisioned KiShin evolving beyond its current industries to become a recognized name in the automotive world. But it wasn't about just any cars—it was about creating vehicles that resonated with his own style and preferences.

For Shin, KiShin was the perfect platform to bring his automotive dreams to life, crafting cars not just for the market, but as expressions of his own design ethos and passion for sports cars. This was his chance to blend personal aspiration with professional ambition, turning KiShin into a brand synonymous with innovation, style, and the spirit of freedom.