DDs - The End of the Beginning, Right?

Tu & Lei begin the pod with a discussion about the unveiling of the RT6 - an Baidu Apollo branded, Level 4 capable robotaxi that will be hitting the streets sometime next year at the cost of ¥250K (~$37K) and the greater implications of Baidu's mobility strategy. Tu speculates that we could see announcements from Baidu about pilots launching outside of China next year.

Tu moves the discussion over to battery cell manufacturers and how they're likely being approached by the legacy automakers with the opportunity to globally supply cells in the US + China + the EU(where applicable). Lei talks about Ford's bold announcement about a partnership with CATL.

The topic of discussion then moves to Didi, its massive fine and what's next for them. 

The podcast closes with Tu & Lei briefly discussing the current foreign / local JV situation, Li Auto's 'spring-gate' and Tu's quick takes of the week.