The BMW Group and Alibaba Group have today revealed an enhanced strategic collaboration in China, fast-tracking the incorporation of Alibaba’s Qwen large language model (LLM) into BMW’s upcoming intelligent vehicles known as the Neue Klasse models.

This partnership represents a notable advancement in AI-enhanced mobility, merging BMW’s automotive expertise with Alibaba’s AI capabilities to provide an unmatched in-car intelligence experience in China.

Through this collaboration, the newly developed BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA) will feature an AI engine specifically created by BMW and Alibaba. This AI engine will utilize Yan AI, a smart cockpit solution powered by Qwen, which has been developed by Banma, Alibaba's provider for intelligent cockpit solutions.

The AI-enhanced IPA is set to launch in BMW Neue Klasse models manufactured in China, beginning in 2026, establishing a new standard for smart, intuitive, and interactive human-vehicle communication.

For Alibaba, the collaboration represents its goal of facilitating industrial change through AI, enabling global companies such as BMW to utilize Qwen’s sophisticated technology. This effort also highlights BMW’s dedication to integrating AI throughout its research and development as well as its product creation, in line with its recent introduction of a broad 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,” says Sean Green, President and CEO of BMW Group Region China.

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Eddie Wu, CEO of Alibaba Group says, “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. 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.”