The BMW Group and the tech giant Alibaba Group have unveiled a deliberate partnership in China, with Alibaba’s Banma signing an agreement to develop a customized AI engine for BMW.
The partnership emphasizes the integration of Alibaba’s Qwen large language model (LLM) into BMW’s Neue Klasse intelligent vehicles. The collaboration represents a significant leap in AI mobility, combining BMW’s automotive expertise with Alibaba’s AI technology to revolutionize the in-car intelligence experience for the Chinese market.
Under the partnership, BMW’s new Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) will feature a custom AI engine. The AI engine, built on Yan AI—a Qwen-powered smart cockpit solution by Banma, Alibaba’s intelligent cockpit provider—will launch in 2026. It will debut in BMW Neue Klasse models manufactured in China.
The updated BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant will enhance human-vehicle interaction with advanced features like natural communication, multi-agent coordination, and seamless integration into the digital ecosystem. It also optimizes features like voice recognition, trip planning, and tailored services, including parking suggestions and traffic updates.
The Neue Klasse models will showcase two AI Agents: the Car Genius, offering expertise in vehicle functions and real-time support, and the Travel Companion, providing personalized assistance with navigation, entertainment, and lifestyle services. Equipped with advanced interaction capabilities, the agents can efficiently handle user requests.
The initiative supports Alibaba’s $52 billion investment in AI infrastructure over three years and highlights BMW’s dedication to integrating AI into R&D, aligning with Alibaba’s vision for industrial transformation.
On March 25, BMW Group launched its 360-degree full-chain AI strategy for its China business. The initiative focuses on digitalized production and operations, elevating intelligent user experiences across all scenarios and fostering open innovation in research and development. The strategy seeks to accelerate BMW’s AI integration in China, shaping long-term competitiveness in the AI era.
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