
Core Insights - AI has become the core engine driving the transformation of the smart automotive industry, reshaping product definitions and industry ecosystems, and pushing global automotive competition into a new "AI-driven" phase [1][4][8] Industry Transformation - The automotive industry's value structure is undergoing a disruptive reconstruction, with AI technology as the driving force; the cost of mechanical hardware in traditional fuel vehicles has decreased from 70% to below 50%, and is expected to drop below 30% in the coming years, while electronic hardware costs are projected to reach 70% by 2030 [4][5] - The integration of software and AI is redefining automotive products, with "intelligence" now accounting for 54% of consumer purchasing decisions, second only to cost at 60%, indicating the necessity for companies to convert AI capabilities into product competitiveness [4][5] AI Application Progression - AI penetration in the smart automotive sector is advancing in three stages: 1. AI as a tool for optimizing R&D and management processes 2. AI evolving into the core of products, leading to the emergence of "AI cars" with self-learning capabilities 3. Companies transforming into "AI-native enterprises," developing diversified products based on foundational algorithms and data capabilities [5][6] Ecosystem Construction - The nature of AI technology necessitates breaking traditional boundaries in the automotive industry, with a "three verticals and three horizontals" framework highlighting the importance of collaboration between software, chips, data, and the automotive supply chain [6][7] - The "pairing" model is crucial for the implementation of AI technology, where tech companies collaborate closely with automakers to address AI technology gaps and facilitate commercialization [6][7] Globalization and Cross-Industry Opportunities - AI-enabled smart vehicles present new opportunities for global expansion, with China's L2-L3 smart vehicle penetration rates exceeding the global average by nearly 20%, although challenges such as compliance with international data privacy and cybersecurity regulations remain significant [7][8] - The universality of AI technology allows for cross-industry empowerment, with the automotive sector's scale capabilities aiding in cost reduction for emerging industries like robotics and low-altitude aircraft [7][8] Strategic Summary - AI is not only the technological core of smart vehicles but also a "new productive force" driving industry reconstruction; China must strengthen its terminal advantages while addressing core deficiencies in AI chips and operating systems to build ecological barriers and secure a leading position in global smart automotive competition [8]