Baidu, commonly referred to as the Google of China, has formed an alliance with Zhejiang Geely to create Ji Yue, an electric vehicle brand. The first offering from this collaboration, the 01 crossover, was unveiled in August.
Already a significant player in the automotive industry, particularly in the realm of autonomous vehicles, Baidu has been operating a robotaxi service in select regions of China for several years.
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The tech conglomerate is further extending its reach in the automotive space with the introduction of Ji Yue, which has been labeled as a brand focused on “premium intelligent technology.”
The vehicles under the Ji Yue brand will benefit from Baidu’s proprietary technologies in artificial intelligence, connectivity, mapping, and autonomous driving, as well as Geely’s prowess in vehicle manufacturing. Additionally, Ji Yue aims to establish its own charging infrastructure within China.
Though full details regarding Ji Yue and its inaugural model, the 01 crossover, will be disclosed nearer to the brand’s market launch in China later this year, Baidu has verified that the crossover model is built on Geely’s SEA modular EV platform. This platform also serves as the foundation for multiple models in Geely’s range of brands, including but not limited to the Zeekr 001, as well as the forthcoming Volvo EX30 and Polestar 4 crossovers.
In contrast to American technology companies such as Alphabet Inc. and Apple, which have either retreated from or delayed the introduction of their respective automotive ventures, Chinese firms are aggressively entering the market. Notable examples include Alibaba, a competitor to Amazon, which has partnered with SAIC to create the IM brand, and smartphone manufacturer Xiaomi, which is independently developing its own line of cars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Baidu and Zhejiang Geely Electric Vehicle Partnership
What is the main focus of the collaboration between Baidu and Zhejiang Geely?
The primary aim of the partnership is to create Ji Yue, a new electric vehicle brand that leverages both Baidu’s and Geely’s individual strengths. The brand will be positioned around “premium intelligent technology,” incorporating Baidu’s artificial intelligence, connectivity, mapping, and self-driving technologies along with Geely’s expertise in vehicle manufacturing.
What is the significance of Baidu’s involvement in the automotive sector?
Baidu has been a major player in the automotive sector, especially in the area of autonomous driving. The company has successfully run a robotaxi service in select parts of China for the past few years, demonstrating its capabilities in self-driving technologies.
What is known about Ji Yue’s inaugural model, the 01 crossover?
The first model from Ji Yue, the 01 crossover, was unveiled in August. Though detailed specifications will be disclosed closer to its market launch in China later this year, it has been confirmed that the crossover is built on Geely’s SEA modular electric vehicle platform, which also underpins other models across Geely’s portfolio.
What differentiates Chinese tech companies from their U.S. counterparts in the automotive sector?
While American tech companies like Alphabet Inc. and Apple have shown caution, either withdrawing from or delaying their respective automotive projects, Chinese companies like Baidu and Alibaba are aggressively entering the market. They are forming partnerships or working independently to launch new electric vehicle brands.
Will Ji Yue have its own charging infrastructure?
Yes, Ji Yue plans to establish its own charging network within China, adding another layer of convenience and utility for prospective buyers and current owners of Ji Yue electric vehicles.
What other Chinese tech companies are entering the electric vehicle market?
Apart from Baidu, other Chinese tech companies like Alibaba and Xiaomi are making inroads into the electric vehicle market. Alibaba has partnered with SAIC to establish the IM brand, while Xiaomi is independently working on developing its own line of electric vehicles.
More about Baidu and Zhejiang Geely Electric Vehicle Partnership
- Baidu Official Announcement on Ji Yue Collaboration
- Geely Corporate Newsroom
- Overview of Baidu’s Robotaxi Service in China
- SEA Modular Electric Vehicle Platform by Geely
- Market Trends in China’s Electric Vehicle Sector
- U.S. Tech Companies in the Automotive Industry: A Comparative Study
- Alibaba’s Partnership with SAIC: A Closer Look
- Xiaomi’s Independent Electric Vehicle Project: An Overview