Within the automotive world, there are those who are pushing it forward by doing something different. Without them, we could still be driving cars with a right-sided clutch pedal – thank you, Mr Ford.
Today, these innovations take a different shape, mainly in how we can utilise alternative powertrains, use more eco-friendly materials and building methods, and make electric power not as boring as it maybe sounds.
There are also those disruptors who’d like to completely reinvent the car industry, usually by trying to make car ownership obsolete, such as Uber, Cruise and Pony.ai.
We celebrate all those within the Power List 100, sponsored by Keyloop.
Power List 100 - Disruptors
Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO, Uber
When Dara Khosrowshahi took the top job at Uber in 2017, his priorities were transforming the firm’s less than salubrious public image, making it profitable and expanding into new areas. An intimidating to-do list, but one he has tackled – and continues to add to – with aplomb, even as shared mobility gets set for all-out reinvention. Again.
Kyle Vogt, CEO, Cruise
Kyle Vogt has left an indelible mark on the fields of robotics and self-driving cars. Co-founder of Cruise, he spearheaded the development of cutting-edge autonomous vehicle technology, revolutionising urban mobility. With a background in engineering, Vogt’s work continues to shape the future of transportation and AI.
Peng Jun, co-founder, CEO, Pony.Ai
Pony.AI hit headlines recently when it partnered Toyota to produce a fleet of robotaxis using Pony’s level-four autonomous technology and ride-hailing infrastructure. Pony.ai already operates self-driving taxis in various Chinese cities and says its global fleet has collectively driven more than 13 million miles without a hand on the steering wheel.
Cheng Wei, CEO, Didi Chuxing Technology
As co-founder and CEO of shared mobility service Didi Chuxing, Wei revolutionised ride-hailing by creating a user-centric platform that connects millions. His leadership has propelled Didi to become a tech giant, offering ride-hailing, autonomous driving and other mobility solutions. The service has over 550 million users worldwide.
He Xiaopeng, chairman, Xpeng
“Elon Musk is now better than me but I might be better in future,” said He Xiaopeng in 2018. Today, his EV brand Xpeng is well established in its native China, has begun selling in Europe and is a leader in autonomous driving technology and affordable, long-range battery hardware – not dissimilar to the reputation of a certain US outfit.
Xiang Li, CEO, chairman, Li Auto
In 2019, newly founded Li Auto sold just 1000 cars. Four years on, the Chinese firm is confident it can surpass 40,000 sales per month by the end of 2023. Founder and boss Xiang Li said recently: “Our outstanding cash-generation capability and ample cash reserve will support our unwavering commitment to invest in R&D, business expansion and building long-term competitive barriers.”
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