Americans Can't Buy Chinese EVs. Waymo Is Importing Thousands

Waymo has imported more than 3,200 electric vans built by China's Zeekr brand since 2024, according to Bills of Lading data compiled by research firm ImportGenius. The vehicles, which Waymo calls the Ojai, are entering the United States despite tariffs of 127.5% on Chinese-built electric vehicles. Waymo began deploying the periwinkle-colored minivans in Los Angeles and San Francisco in late May. The company previously said it had more than 100 on the road. ImportGenius director William George said the 3,200 figure is an "at least" count based on U.S. Customs documents identifying Zeekr or the vehicle model. MoffettNathanson analyst Michael Morton said the market assumed Waymo's future with the Ojai was a dead-end due to tariffs. His firm estimates Waymo imports an average of 300 Zeekrs per month. Waymo spokesman Chris Bonelli said the company is serving early access riders across San Francisco, Los Angeles and Phoenix with over 300 Ojais and that the model will be a big part of scaling efforts. Waymo declined to confirm the import tally or vehicle cost. The vans arrive without sensors or computing systems to comply with U.S. security laws, and Waymo installs its autonomous technology at its Mesa, Arizona factory. The fleet totaled about 3,900 units last month, mainly Jaguar I-Pace SUVs that have been discontinued.