Jiyue Auto, the Baidu and Geely-backed EV maker, has dismissed several departments, delayed December salaries, and suspended social security payments amid financial struggles. CEO Xia Yiping acknowledged the need for immediate adjustments, including focusing on core technologies, boosting sales and services, merging divisions, and shutting down unprofitable projects. Despite earlier denials of mass layoffs and business closures, insider reports suggest halted investments and an end to the finished vehicle business. Founded in 2021, Jiyue has raised nearly $400 million but sold only 14,055 cars over the past year, lagging far behind competitors like Li Auto and Xpeng.