BMW Group and Alibaba Group have announced an expanded strategic partnership in China, aimed at enhancing the integration of Alibaba’s Qwen large language model (LLM) into BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse intelligent vehicles. This collaboration represents a major advancement in AI-driven mobility, merging BMW’s automotive expertise with Alibaba’s AI capabilities to create an exceptional in-car intelligence experience in China.
As part of this partnership, the new BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) will feature a custom AI engine developed jointly by BMW and Alibaba. This engine will utilize Yan AI, a smart cockpit AI solution powered by Qwen, created by Banma, Alibaba’s intelligent cockpit provider.
The AI-enhanced IPA is set to launch in BMW Neue Klasse models manufactured in China starting in 2026, establishing a new standard for intelligent, intuitive, and engaging interactions between humans and vehicles. For Alibaba, this partnership highlights its goal of driving industrial transformation through AI, equipping global leaders like BMW with the advanced capabilities of Qwen. Additionally, this initiative reinforces BMW’s dedication to integrating AI throughout its research and development and product innovation, following the recent rollout of its comprehensive AI strategy in China.
“Our long-term partnership with Alibaba Group is exemplary of common growth achieved with co-creation. BMW will work closer with Chinese tech partners on electric mobility and intelligent technologies to write our renewed win-win story,” said Sean Green, President and CEO of BMW Group Region China.
“Our partnership with BMW Group marks a pivotal leap in deploying AI-powered large language models at the forefront of advanced manufacturing, and Qwen’s integration into BMW’s in-car systems showcases how AI can revolutionize mobility.” said Eddie Wu, CEO of Alibaba Group. “AI is a driving force to advance productivity across industries. We look forward to working closely with BMW to pioneer AI applications in the mobility sector that drive innovation and truly elevate user experience.”
Utilizing Qwen’s AI technology, BMW and Alibaba Group will integrate AI LLM into BMW’s IPA system for the first time, incorporating AI agents into the vehicle’s cabin. This development means that the Neue Klasse models will feature an empathetic AI companion equipped with three primary functions: human-like communication, coordination among multiple agents, and integration within a digital ecosystem, all aimed at enhancing the travel and in-car entertainment experience. These features will improve intent recognition, enable complex command processing, provide nuanced semantic understanding, and enhance logical reasoning.
Initially, the Neue Klasse models will introduce two new AI Agents tailored for Chinese drivers: the Car Genius, which serves as an onboard expert for vehicle operations and offers real-time assistance, and the Travel Companion, a personalized guide for navigation, entertainment, and lifestyle services. With their intelligent interaction capabilities, these agents will assist users with mobility functions, in-car experiences, and digital services.
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