I believe BYD is two, three generations ahead in terms of technology.

Aashutosh Gautam
Senior Manager, Cimex Inc

Aashutosh Gautam is the Head of Sales of Cimex Inc, the authorised distributor of BYD Auto Industry Co in Nepal. BYD Auto Co is the automotive subsidiary of BYD Company, a publicly listed Chinese multinational manufacturing company. It manufactures passenger battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), collectively known as new energy vehicles (NEVs) in China. It also produces electric buses and trucks.. BYD has established over 30 industrial parks across six continents in over 20 years. A company listed on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges, its turnover and total market value both exceed RMB 200 billion.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and an MBA, Gautam describes himself as someone always keen to learn. In his work, Gautam strives to supplement the vision of his young CEO, Sahil Shrestha, to spearhead a green revolution in Nepal’s automobile sector and bring formative improvements to people’s lives. 

In this edition of Business 360, we spoke to Gautam about his choice of brands and why brands matter. Excerpts.

Does branding matter?
It does. The major reason is because brands do not get established in a day. The reason something is a brand is because it has a strong core. If a brand’s identity is strong, it will definitely lure people.

When does branding matter?
For me personally, I would focus on the use of the product. For something like a TV, I would like a good, recognised brand. If it is something like a toilet cleaner, then I would not focus on finding a brand for it. It really depends on the utility of the product.

iPhone or Android
I am using an iPhone 15 at the moment. I used to use a Samsung but after the Note series was discontinued, I have switched to Apple.

Most used apps
As a search engine, I always look to Google. I also use Instagram a lot. The third is a digital wallet like eSewa. For news, especially automobile news, I have been using LinkedIn.

Electric or Fuel Car
Obviously electric. It is imperative to shift to alternative energy, and right now there is no other alternative that is better than electric.

What do you drive currently
I drive the BYD Dolphin

Dream car
We have the BYD Seal but in the future, I would love to drive BYD’s Yangwang U8.

Notable startups in Nepal
Hamro Bazaar at one point of time was all the rage. I don’t know why or how, but Facebook Marketplace seems to have replaced it. That is unfortunate but I was following it judiciously at one point in time. 

Bucket list destinations
I have mostly covered the Terai belt. Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to travel to the hilly and mountainous regions as much. I don’t really trek a lot but I would love to. I love Mustang, Sauraha and Ilam.

Preferred airline
Buddha Air, but I would rather travel by road than by air. 

Global company that inspires you
BYD. With its history of 25 years, I believe it is the future. BYD’s core strength is its technology. I believe BYD is two, three generations ahead in terms of technology. 

Most used gadget
PlayStation. I love to play FIFA on the PlayStation.

Sports you follow
I watch football and am a huge fan of Cristiano Ronaldo. I really admire his work ethic. I also watch cricket occasionally and am a fan of Virat Kohli.

Favourite clothing brand
I prefer wearing formals and specifically tailor made for me. I shop for my casual wear at Roots.

Online shopping
I am an offline, in-person shopper.

Perfume
Cristiano Ronaldo’s fragrances 

Wristwatch
Series 9 Apple watch

Go-to eating spot
I love to explore food. I don’t have a specific go-to eating spot but recently I have been really enjoying Chinese food. Other than that, it is difficult to beat Nepali dishes like sekuwa.

Mentor
My first boss from my first job, a man named Alok Joshi, is someone I would consider my mentor. To this day, I seek guidance from him.

Best work advice
Try to earn people, money will follow.

Favourite media personality
Bhusan Dahal

Favourite way to unwind
Quality time with my wife

A show you are currently watching
House of Cards 

Is expensive necessarily better?
If there is a justifiable reason for something being expensive, then it makes sense. But if something is expensive solely for effect, it makes no sense.

How do you balance luxury and affordability?
If something has a legacy worth mentioning, then the luxury is justified.

What are the most important qualities in a brand?
Its core strengths, the benefit it provides, the advantages it offers. Whatever makes it worthwhile for a customer.