In a strategic collaboration between Chinese technology company Baidu and leading automaker Geely, a new milestone has been reached as they introduce the Ji Yue brand, poised to debut their first electric model by year-end. The forthcoming Ji Yue 01, a remarkable electric SUV, was formerly recognized as Jidu Auto’s Robo-01, marking a significant stride in the Baidu-Geely partnership.
Both Baidu and Geely have officially introduced the Ji Yue brand, with plans to initiate production and commence deliveries of the Ji Yue 01 in the final quarter of 2023. Produced under the umbrella of Geely, the Ji Yue 01 will be underpinned by Geely’s innovative SEA platform. A noteworthy aspect of the new brand’s vision is the development of an indigenous charging infrastructure across China.
Recent reports from Chinese CN EV News affirm that the Ji Yue 01 has been included in China’s registration catalog. Observers will note the strong resemblance of the Ji Yue 01 to Jidu Auto’s previous electric SUV, the Robo-01. Although the shift away from the Jidu Auto name is not accompanied by an official statement, industry analysts speculate that the venture’s inactivity over the past six months, including its absence from the Shanghai auto show, may have prompted this change.
The fundamental approach to the vehicle’s design remains consistent, with the flagship Ji Yue 01 anticipated to pioneer advancements in intelligent automotive technologies. The Geely SEA hardware platform forms the foundation for the electric drive, with Baidu’s expertise contributing significantly to the autonomous driving capabilities and connectivity software. Notably, the latest updates from the erstwhile joint venture, Jidu Auto, date back to February, when it was reported that the Robo-01 had undergone rigorous winter testing in northern China’s four cities since December 2022.
The emergence of the Jidu brand was officially announced in March 2021, and within a year, Baidu and Geely unveiled their substantial investment plans of approximately $400 million into their electric car joint venture. In October 2022, Jidu Auto introduced a limited edition variant of the Robo-01, known as the Lunar Edition, with prices starting at 399,800 yuan (approximately $54,888). As the year came to a close, the brand unveiled its second model, the Robo-02, at the Guangzhou Auto Show in December 2022.
Curiously, information from CN EV News reveals that Jidu Auto was initially owned 55 percent by Baidu and 45 percent by Geely. However, with the introduction of the Ji Yue brand, Geely takes on a majority ownership role. Specifically, the Ji Yue brand’s operational entity, Hangzhou Jiyuyue Automotive Technology Co Ltd, is reportedly owned 65 percent by Geely and 35 percent by a subsidiary of Baidu.
