Baidu-Geely EV venture names Mobike co-founder as chief

By: Reuters
Updated on: 22 Feb 2021, 13:41 PM

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The new Baidu-Geely EV venture chief, Xia Yiping, is experienced in the field of smart cars and mobility services.

General Motors CEO Mary Barra does not think that electric vehicles will become obvious choice for all customers any time before 2040.

China's Baidu Inc and automaker Geely hired Mobike co-founder and former chief technology officer Xia Yiping as chief executive of their new electric vehicle venture, the search engine giant said on Monday.

Baidu last month had announced it would set up a company with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group to leverage its intelligent driving capabilities and Geely's car manufacturing expertise.

Also Read : China's Geely sets out to become a force in electric cars

"Xia has extensive management experience in the field of smart cars and mobility services," Baidu said in a statement. "We welcome Xia Yiping to join Baidu's auto company and look forward to his contribution to Baidu and the automobile industry."

Reuters reported Xia's appointment last week, citing people familiar with the matter.

Xia served as Mobike's chief technology officer until the company was acquired by food delivery giant Meituan in 2018. Prior to Mobike, he worked at Ford Motor and Fiat Chrysler.

First Published Date: 22 Feb 2021, 13:41 PM IST

TAGS: Baidu Geely electric vehicles