Alibaba and BMW Partner to Develop AI-Powered Features for Cars in China
Alibaba Group and BMW have launched a new collaboration to jointly develop artificial intelligence features for Chinese-made cars. BMW will integrate AI cockpit technology from Banma, an Alibaba-backed firm, into future models produced exclusively for the Chinese market.
Banma's AI platform comes equipped with Alibaba's Qwen large language model, which has been optimized through the tech giant's internal research and development groups. This integration will drive an intelligent in-car assistant with enhanced voice interaction, smart navigation, and contextual services such as parking guidance and real-time traffic light information.
AI Assistant Set to Launch in 2025 BMW Models
BMW will introduce the enhanced AI assistant in new cars produced in China next year. In addition to better voice recognition, the assistant can suggest nearby restaurants, route-optimizing as well as get in touch with local smart infrastructure for an all-around more interconnected driving experience.
The partnership is a significant move by Alibaba to expand the footprint of its AI ecosystem, namely its Qwen model, which is already used by China's leading EV makers such as Xpeng, Zeekr, and Leapmotor.
Alibaba Doubles Down on AI as Core Strategy
The company has committed over $52 billion to AI infrastructure investment, including data centers, over the next three years. CEO Eddie Wu reaffirmed in February that the company’s top strategic priority is achieving progress toward artificial general intelligence (AGI).
Alibaba has also landed a major win by securing a role in powering AI features for Apple’s upcoming iPhones in China, set to launch in the near future.
Also read: Singapore Airlines Partners with Salesforce to Transform Customer Service with AI
BMW Emphasizes AI Amid China's Fierce Competition
For BMW, the alliance offers an opportunity to deepen its presence in China, the second-largest economy in the world and a significant market for the German carmaker. The Chinese auto market remains highly competitive with local EV makers like BYD dominating the industry.
