As the global auto industry accelerates its transformation toward intelligent mobility, Chinese parts suppliers are taking the lead in steering innovation and product development.
From supplying key components to co-developing next-generation driving systems, domestic intelligent vehicle tech companies are demonstrating stronger competence through research and development collaborations with international car brands.
Last week, BMW Group announced a partnership with Chinese smart driving startup company Momenta to jointly develop an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) tailored specifically for the Chinese market. According to the two sides, the cooperation is expected to combine the strengths of both companies in artificial intelligence and automotive engineering, while focusing on local driving habits and road conditions to deliver a truly “homegrown” intelligent driving experience for Chinese users.
Earlier this year, German automotive technology giant Bosch announced a partnership with Beijing-based Horizon Robotics to co-develop next-generation multifunction cameras based on the latter’s Journey 6B chips, and upgraded driver-assistance systems powered by Journey 6E/M chips.
“China has become a global innovation hub for automotive intelligence,” said Christoph Hartung, president of Bosch’s intelligent driving and control systems unit, adding that the company looks forward to deepening cooperation with outstanding Chinese partners like Horizon Robotics to advance the global development of driver-assistance technologies.
A month earlier, Wuhan, Hubei province-based Ecarx signed a partnership with Volkswagen Group to supply intelligent cockpit solutions for Volkswagen and Skoda models, with the first wave of products set to launch in Brazil and India.
The high-profile deals serve as a reflection of a new cooperation trend. “China is evolving from being merely a consumer market to becoming a global hub for technological innovation and supply chain leadership,” said Zhang Yongwei, vice-chairman and secretary-general of China EV100, a non-governmental research and policy institute.
In this regard, Zhang believes that multinational automakers need to revisit their strategies in China by boosting local R&D and strengthening partnerships with domestic suppliers in order to leverage the country’s innovation edge on a global scale.
Post time: Jul-24-2025