On March 20th, Elon Musk participated in the “Economic Summit of China Development Forum 2021” remotely through video conferencing. He had a dialogue with Professor XUE Qikun, academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and President of Southern University of Science and Technology, on the topic of “The Next Disruptive Innovation”.

The following information has been sorted out based on Musk’s speech via the interpreter.

Technology

Artificial intelligence is an indispensable part of technological development, just like digital medicine used in COVID-19 vaccine development. The self-driving cars, which are forthcoming soon, will reshape transportation. At the same time, 3D tunnels can also help ease traffic congestion. With the development of technology, life can expand beyond Earth to ensure the continuation of human consciousness.

Higher Education System# Physics is of Vital Importance

Physics is an essential field of study that outlines the mechanics of the world around us. However, traditional classroom methods may not be fully engaging. It is imperative to communicate to students the significance and relevance of studying physics, rather than merely instructing them to earn a degree to find employment. Remote education has the advantage of replayable content, allowing for the best possible dissemination of information. The in-class duration should be reserved for interaction and discussion, fostering an open debate rather than one-sided indoctrination.

Tesla University

Tesla University once contemplated providing instruction in the field of robot programming in response to a shortage of skilled workers in modern factories. This idea is practical and forward-thinking.

Artificial Intelligence### Dealing with AI

Dealing with AI is one of the most important challenges that humanity faces, and it could potentially be the most important. The regulation and symbiosis of AI are crucial. AI needs to be regulated, especially when it comes to human security.

Current Sino-US Relationship

The two sides should establish greater mutual trust. The issue of corporate espionage has raised some concerns, such as the US government’s plan to shut down TikTok. However, such concerns are unnecessary, and lessons should be learned from them. In general, even if there is corporate espionage, it does not matter if the information is not that important.# Whether it is a Chinese company or a US company, if a commercial company did engage in spying, the negative effects to that company would be extremely bad.

If Tesla used cars to spy in China, it will be shut down.

There’s a very strong incentive for us to be very confidential with any information. Commercial companies attach great importance to confidentiality.

I hope we can have a future in which we trust each other.

This article is a translation by ChatGPT of a Chinese report from 42HOW. If you have any questions about it, please email bd@42how.com.