The Biden administration’s decision to impose tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) imported from China is set to impact Alphabet’s autonomous-driving technology company, Waymo, which collaborates with Geely-owned Zeekr on robotaxis. The vehicle, dubbed the M-Vision and designed for ride-sharing, is built on Geely’s SEA-M platform, an adapted version of the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) used in several Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, and Smart models.
With President Biden’s announcement of a 102.5% tariff on Chinese-made EVs, the Waymo robotaxi, sourced from Zeekr, faces the prospect of these tariffs affecting its importation.
A Waymo spokesperson informed Auto News that the company is closely monitoring the China tariff situation.
Waymo has begun receiving a limited number of Zeekr robotaxis in the U.S. and is conducting tests in San Francisco. The extent of Waymo’s procurement of Zeekr robotaxis remains undisclosed, but the new tariffs are expected to impact Waymo’s financials significantly. This development raises questions about whether the tariffs will prompt a reassessment of the Zeekr deal by either party, or if Zeekr will consider manufacturing the robotaxis in a country with more favorable trade conditions, such as Mexico, before importing them into the U.S.
While specific technical details about the robotaxi are scarce, it is believed to feature an 800-volt electrical architecture and may utilize electric motors from the 007 sedan. The M-Vision concept displayed by Zeekr featured sliding front and rear doors akin to a minivan, enhancing passenger access. Additionally, the interior boasted spaciousness and a flat floor, making it ideal for taxi services.
