Investing.com -- BMW (ETR: BMWG ) Group and Alibaba (NYSE: BABA ) Group have announced a deeper strategic partnership in China, aiming to integrate Alibaba’s large language model, Qwen, into BMW’s next-generation Neue Klasse models. This collaboration signifies a major advancement in AI-driven mobility, merging BMW’s automotive expertise with Alibaba’s AI capabilities to provide a unique in-car intelligence experience in China.

As part of the partnership, a custom AI engine, co-developed by BMW and Alibaba, will be incorporated into the new BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant (IPA). The AI engine will be based on Yan AI, a smart cockpit AI solution powered by Qwen and developed by Banma, Alibaba’s intelligent cockpit solution provider. The AI-enhanced IPA is set to premiere in BMW Neue Klasse models manufactured in China starting from 2026, establishing a new standard for intelligent, intuitive, and engaging human-vehicle interaction.

This partnership aligns with Alibaba’s mission to drive industrial transformation through AI, enabling global leaders like BMW to utilize Qwen’s advanced capabilities. It also highlights BMW’s dedication to incorporating AI into its research and development and product development, following its recent comprehensive AI strategy launch in China.

Sean Green, President and CEO of BMW Group Region China, emphasized the importance of the partnership with Alibaba Group. He stated that BMW aims to work more closely with Chinese tech partners on electric mobility and intelligent technologies. Eddie Wu, CEO of Alibaba Group, noted that the partnership represents a critical step in applying AI-powered large language models to advanced manufacturing.

Since 2015, BMW and Alibaba have cooperated in various domains including cloud computing, smart manufacturing, intelligent networking, intelligent logistics, and voice interaction. The expansion into AI LLM integration marks a new phase in the partnership, with both companies looking to further explore cross-sector opportunities in infrastructure, platform development, and intelligent services.

With Qwen’s AI capability, BMW and Alibaba Group will integrate AI LLM into BMW’s IPA system and bring AI agents to the cabin for the first time. The Neue Klasse models will feature an empathetic AI companion with three core capabilities: human-like interaction, multi-agent coordination, and digital ecosystem integration. These capabilities will enhance both travel and in-car infotainment experience through more accurate intent recognition, complex command processing, nuanced semantic understanding, and improved logical reasoning.

Initially, the Neue Klasse models will introduce two new AI Agents for Chinese car users – the Car Genius, an onboard expert for vehicle functions and real-time assistance, and the Travel Companion, a personalized guide for navigation, entertainment, and lifestyle services. These intelligent interaction agents will facilitate user requests on mobility functions, in-car experience, and digital services.

For instance, when a user makes a complex multi-command request, the IPA system will utilize real-time traffic data, charging station availability, venue ratings, and user preferences to generate tailored recommendations, simplifying travel planning.

Since its launch in April 2023, Alibaba’s Qwen has been adopted by over 290,000 enterprises across various industries, including automotive, manufacturing, finance, gaming, healthcare, and robotics. Accessible via Alibaba Cloud’s generative AI development platform Model Studio, Qwen continues to be a favorite among global businesses and developers for AI innovation.

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