German automaker BMW announced plans to integrate artificial intelligence technology from Chinese firm DeepSeek into its new vehicle models in China later this year, further cementing its strategic focus on localized innovation.
Speaking at the Shanghai Auto Show on Wednesday, BMW CEO Oliver Zipse highlighted China’s rapid advancements in AI. “Key technologies for artificial intelligence are making significant progress in China, and we are strengthening our cooperation with Chinese technology companies to integrate these technologies into our cars,” Zipse stated.
As part of this initiative, BMW will embed DeepSeek’s advanced “deep thinking” module into its latest vehicle lineup for the Chinese market. The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, the company’s in-car voice-controlled AI system, will receive a major upgrade powered by DeepSeek. This enhancement aims to extend the assistant’s capabilities beyond vehicle functions, offering more dynamic, context-aware information to drivers and passengers.
The move comes on the heels of BMW’s recent collaboration with Alibaba, announced last month, to co-develop the next generation of intelligent driving technologies. The partnership will leverage Alibaba Cloud’s infrastructure and AI development expertise to improve vehicle system responsiveness and autonomous driving safety.
Together, these developments reflect BMW’s growing investment in smart mobility solutions tailored specifically for the Chinese market—a key region in the global race for automotive innovation.
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