BMW, Momenta to develop China-specific smart driving solution

BMW is stepping up its localization strategy in China's fast-evolving intelligent driving market by partnering with local autonomous driving startup Momenta.

The German carmaker announced on Tuesday that it would co-develop a new generation of advanced driver-assistance systems with Momenta, tailored for Chinese road conditions and user preferences.

The system will debut on BMW's next-generation China-produced models, offering point-to-point assistance across highway and urban road scenarios, from parking departure to destination arrival.

The jointly developed solution integrates AI large-model architecture and is based on the electrical/electronic architecture of BMW's new-generation vehicles.

According to BMW, the system will feature an end-to-end software stack covering perception, planning, and control, enabling more intelligent and adaptive driving capabilities.

BMW's collaboration with Momenta is the latest move in its broader effort to align product innovation with local demands.

BMW's product philosophy and approach to intelligent driving are merging with China's cutting-edge digital technologies, said Sean Green, president and CEO of BMW Group Region China.

Intelligent driving functions are becoming key differentiators in China's competitive auto market, especially as local EV startups lead in urban assisted driving features.

By working with Momenta—a company with strong local algorithm and data capabilities—BMW aims to enhance its response to local driving conditions and shorten time-to-market for new functions.

Founded in 2016, Momenta is known for its self-learning, data-driven autonomous driving technology.

The company has previously received investment from General Motors and Toyota, among others.

It has won orders from a number of local and overseas carmakers, including Toyota and Audi.

Momenta's partnership with BMW reflects a broader trend of global automakers collaborating with Chinese tech firms to accelerate intelligent mobility solutions.

"It's a great honor to partner with BMW, a brand known for both its technical excellence and global prestige," said Cao Xudong, CEO of Momenta.

"We will fully leverage our expertise in AI large models and autonomous driving algorithms to co-develop innovative driver-assistance products that combine German engineering with Chinese smart technology."

The co-developed ADAS will be rolled out across multiple segments and models.

The system is expected to significantly improve convenience and safety in complex and high-frequency driving scenarios, but BMW said it will replace the driver, as safety remains a key priority in the company's approach to automation.

This is not BMW's first collaboration with Chinese tech companies. In recent years, it has worked with Huawei, Alibaba, and others on voice interaction, digital ecosystems, and in-car connectivity.