BMW claims that even the Chinese can't match its development speeds
The German carmaker promises to launch 40 new models in two years thanks to AI and the Neue Klasse platform.
Here's What We Know
In recent years, Chinese carmakers have set new standards not only in terms of vehicle interior technology and advanced powertrains, but also in the speed at which they bring new models to market. However, according to BMW's development director Joachim Post, the German auto giant has now reached a point where it can develop and launch new models even faster than Chinese rivals.
The brand's transformation under the Neue Klasse programme is well underway. The new era brings not only a radically different design philosophy, but also a new electric vehicle platform, improved motors and better batteries. As part of the refresh, BMW promises to release 40 new models and updates over the next two years.
"Who can do it? - Post asked in an interview with Handelsblatt. - Our colleagues in China can't do it either. One car can always be developed quite quickly. But that wasn't the approach with the iX3 and Neue Klasse. We have invested a lot of time and energy to ensure a powerful technological leap for the entire model range. Because we will only succeed when we integrate the technologies we have developed across the entire model range."
Post added that BMW can now bring cars to market as fast as they bake brezels in Bavaria.
According to Post, one of the reasons why BMW will be able to launch more models faster than ever before is artificial intelligence. He said the technology helps a lot, especially in programming and software development. Tasks that used to take a day can now be completed in minutes with the help of AI.
In the future, development times could be reduced even further. Post noted that previously when someone, such as an engineer, left the company, they took their knowledge with them. Now BMW can train an AI model to retain that knowledge and, more importantly, not let competitors get it.
Source: Handelsblatt