

Elon Musk, TSMC, Open Source, Endless Frontier and Zhang Yiming
May 11, 2021
Kevin Xu, author of the Interconnected newsletter and a former member of the Obama White House, shares insightful perspectives on US-China tech dynamics. He discusses Elon Musk's influence in China's EV market and the complexities of operating there. The conversation shifts to the importance of open source technology for American industry and highlights the Endless Frontier Act as a crucial initiative. Kevin also reflects on Zhang Yiming's mindful leadership style and the evolving landscape of technology innovation, emphasizing the future of semiconductors.
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Elon Musk's China Focus
- Elon Musk's Shanghai Gigafactory saved Tesla during COVID-19.
- He focuses on building a local Chinese engineering team and original IP there.
Musk's Impact on China
- Elon Musk's influence has impacted industrial policy and technological development in China.
- He inspired Xiaomi to enter the EV space and a new generation of Chinese aerospace engineers.
Tesla's Potential Downfall
- Tesla's success in China could be threatened by sensitivities around Musk's other ventures.
- Chinese competitors and government ministries may want to limit Tesla's market share.