BMW and Alibaba strengthen AI partnership for future cars in China

28 Mar, 2025

BMW and Alibaba have expanded their AI partnership to develop next-generation intelligent vehicle technology for China. The collaboration will integrate Alibaba’s Qwen large language model (LLM) into BMW’s Neue Klasse models, set to debut in 2026.

The AI-driven system will introduce Car Genius and Travel Companion, providing real-time assistance and lifestyle services tailored to Chinese consumers. Users can request complex services, such as planning a dinner outing, with the AI synthesizing real-time traffic data, venue ratings, and user preferences to generate recommendations.

BMW will integrate Alibaba’s AI engine, developed by Banma, into its Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA). This technology will enhance human-vehicle interaction through human-like communication, multi-agent coordination, and seamless digital ecosystem integration. Features include improved voice recognition, trip planning, and personalized recommendations.

BMW Group Region China CEO Sean Green highlighted the company’s commitment to working with Chinese tech leaders on intelligent technologies and electric mobility. Alibaba CEO Eddie Wu emphasized that integrating Qwen into BMW’s vehicles demonstrates AI’s transformative role in mobility.

The partnership aligns with Alibaba’s broader AI strategy, as the company has committed over $52 billion to AI infrastructure investments. BMW is also embedding AI across its research and development processes to enhance innovation.

Since 2015, BMW and Alibaba have collaborated on cloud computing and smart manufacturing. This latest initiative further cements their shared vision for intelligent mobility solutions.

In a broader AI expansion, Alibaba recently partnered with Apple to introduce AI features in China, while BMW joined forces with Figure AI to enhance robotic automation with the Figure 02 robots. These moves reflect a growing commitment by both companies to revolutionize technology and mobility through AI innovation.

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