Group 1 - BMW Group announced a significant leadership change, appointing Christian Ach as the new President and CEO for Greater China, effective April 1, 2026, replacing Sean Green, who served for over twelve years [1][2] - BMW's global delivery volume showed a slight increase of 0.5% in 2025, with European market sales rising by 7.3%, while sales in China fell to 625,500 units, a decline of 12.5% year-on-year, marking two consecutive years of double-digit declines [1][3] - The luxury car market in China is undergoing a structural crisis, with the 300,000 to 350,000 RMB segment shrinking by 19.2% in 2025, leading to a significant loss of customers to local electric vehicle brands [3][5] Group 2 - BMW's X3 model experienced a dramatic sales drop of 30%, from over 110,000 units in 2024 to 76,900 units in 2025, due to design controversies and aggressive discounting strategies [3][5] - The German luxury car manufacturers, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi, are facing a collective downturn, with Mercedes-Benz sales in China dropping by 19% to 575,000 units and Audi's sales down by 5% to 617,500 units [5][6] - BMW's strategy has been inconsistent, struggling to balance traditional driving pleasure with the new demands for smart technology and user experience in the Chinese market [6][8] Group 3 - The leadership change at BMW is seen as a decisive move to regain control and address the chaotic situation in the Chinese market, with a focus on efficiency and execution [8][12] - Christian Ach's mission includes leveraging his successful experience in the German market to boost electric vehicle sales in China, where the market dynamics are more complex [12][16] - In 2026, BMW plans to launch nearly 20 new models in China, including the iX3, which is crucial for establishing a high-end electric brand image [17][19] Group 4 - Ach faces several challenges, including aligning pricing with perceived value for the new iX3, adapting successful strategies from Germany to the dynamic Chinese market, and effectively communicating BMW's unique competitive advantages in the era of electrification and smart technology [22][23]

China banned concealed door handles on electric vehicles, the first country in the world to outlaw a design popularized by Tesla Inc. that is now facing global regulatory scrutiny due to a spate of deadly incidents.Cars sold in China will be required to have mechanical release both on the inside and outside, according to new safety rules issued by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology on Monday. The ruling will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027, the ministry said. Models that have already been appro ...

Group 1 - BMW Group announced that Christian Ach will succeed Gao Xiang as the President and CEO of BMW Group Greater China starting April 1, 2026, overseeing all market operations in China [3] - Ach has a long history with BMW, having held various management positions since 1998, including leadership roles in the MINI brand and BMW Germany sales [3] - Under Ach's leadership, BMW Germany achieved profitable sales growth and strengthened its market position, with one in five BMW cars sold in Germany being electric [3] Group 2 - The Chinese automotive market has undergone structural changes, with traditional luxury car markets facing pressure and luxury brands experiencing challenges in maintaining high pricing power [4] - In 2025, BMW Group's sales in China are projected to be 626,000 units, a year-on-year decline of 12.5% [5] - BMW is in a critical strategic transformation phase, investing heavily in new generation models, including the launch of the BMW iX3, with over 20 new models planned for China in 2026 and 2027 [5]

1月30日，宝马集团宣布，自2026年4月1日起，柯睿辰（Christian Ach）将接替高翔出任宝马集团大中 华区总裁兼首席执行官，全面统筹并负责宝马在华各类市场业务的推进与管理工作。 柯睿辰于1998年在慕尼黑宝马销售分公司开启职业生涯，此后在宝马集团销售体系内历任多个管理职 务。2010至2018年，他执掌德国MINI品牌业务，2018至2021年担任宝马德国销售负责人；2021年起， 柯睿辰负责涵盖瑞典、挪威、丹麦、芬兰的北欧销售区域，2024年3月1日出任宝马德国首席执行官。 高翔结束在中国市场超过十年的管理任期，于2023年11月1日出任宝马集团大中华区总裁兼执行官，随 后将调任集团内部另一重要管理岗位。 近两年来，中国汽车市场发生结构性变化，宝马所在的传统豪华车市场承压，豪华车企普遍面临转型挑 战。而新能源汽车市场高歌猛进，在存量竞争下，过去豪华品牌的高溢价能力正在减弱。2025年，宝马 集团在华市场销量为62.6万辆，同比下降12.5%。 当前，宝马集团正处于战略转型关键时期。从战略上来看，新世代是宝马集团成立以来最大的一项投 资，包括全新的架构、全新设计语言、第六代电驱技术，并应用和合作伙 ...

Core Viewpoint - The traditional luxury car brands BBA (Benz, BMW, Audi) experienced significant sales declines in China in 2025, indicating a structural loss in the face of the rising dominance of domestic electric vehicle brands and changing consumer preferences [6][10][11]. Group 1: Sales Performance - In 2025, Benz, BMW, and Audi's sales in China were 57.5 million, 62.55 million, and 61.7 million units respectively, representing declines of 19%, 12.5%, and 5% year-on-year [10][11]. - The collective decline of BBA is not a short-term fluctuation but a reflection of the structural challenges posed by the rapid growth of the new energy vehicle market, which saw a penetration rate nearing 60% in 2025 [11][12]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The market share of domestic brands rose to 65% in 2025, while retail sales of fuel vehicles plummeted by 30%, impacting BBA's traditional stronghold [11][12]. - The loyalty of BBA customers has significantly decreased, with less than 18% of previous BBA buyers indicating they would repurchase from the same brand [15][16]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - New energy vehicle brands like AITO, Li Auto, Tesla, and Xiaomi are capturing a significant portion of the market, with a high percentage of their new customers coming from BBA [16]. - BBA's attempts to maintain market share through price reductions and new model launches may not be sufficient to reverse the trend, as consumer preferences shift towards new energy and smart vehicle technologies [13][20]. Group 4: Future Strategies - In 2026, Audi plans to launch new models on the PPE electric platform, while Benz aims to introduce 15 new vehicles, focusing on enhancing local technological capabilities [17][20]. - BMW's upcoming iX3 model, set to launch in late 2026, will feature advanced electric drive systems and local AI functionalities, which will be crucial for its competitiveness in the new energy market [19][20].

Core Insights - The article discusses the significant advancements in the automotive industry showcased at CES 2026, focusing on the integration of AI, software-defined vehicles, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) [5][6][7]. Group 1: NVIDIA and AI Developments - NVIDIA launched Alpamayo, an open-source AI model and tools aimed at accelerating the development of safe, inference-based autonomous driving systems. The model features a Vision-Language-Action architecture with 10 billion parameters, enhancing decision-making capabilities to resemble human reasoning [4][5]. - NVIDIA also introduced AlphaSim, an end-to-end open-source simulation framework for validating autonomous driving systems, along with over 1,700 hours of real driving data [5]. Group 2: Collaborations and New Technologies - ZF and Qualcomm announced a partnership to develop a scalable ADAS platform integrating the ZF ProAI supercomputer and Snapdragon Ride platform, enabling up to Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities with 1,500 TOPS of computing power [6][7]. - Aptiv showcased its next-generation AI driving system capable of L2++ level autonomous driving, expanding its technology from automotive to robotics [9][11]. Group 3: Automotive Innovations - BMW introduced the iX3, featuring a new AI-driven personal assistant and the sixth-generation eDrive technology, which supports a range of advanced functionalities including fast charging and a WLTP range of up to 805 kilometers [13]. - Sony Honda Mobility unveiled the Afeela 1 electric vehicle, equipped with a dual-motor system and a 91 kWh battery, featuring AI-driven voice and infotainment capabilities [15][16]. Group 4: Battery Technology and Connectivity - Donut Lab launched the world's first mass-produced solid-state battery, achieving a high energy density of 400 Wh/kg and rapid charging capabilities, set to be used in the 2026 Verge electric motorcycle [30]. - Quectel introduced the 5G-Advanced AR588MA module, enhancing vehicle safety and connectivity with dual SIM support and satellite communication features [32]. Group 5: Mapping and Navigation - HERE Technologies presented AI maps integrated with the Snapdragon Ride platform, enhancing L2 and L2+ level ADAS capabilities and expanding its navigation services in over 100 countries by 2026 [25].

Core Insights - The CES 2026 event showcases BMW's new generation model, the BMW iX3, aligning with the core theme of "AI scenario implementation" [1][3] - BMW has consistently been a focal point at CES since 2016, evolving from concept vehicles to integrating AI technology into real driving scenarios [1][3] Group 1: AI Integration and Innovation - BMW is integrating AI large language models into production vehicles for the first time, creating a "digital partner" that enhances the driving experience [3] - The BMW iX3 features the BMW Horizon panoramic display, merging navigation, entertainment, and vehicle control for an immersive cockpit experience [3] - The new generation iX3 will expand to 40 new or upgraded products starting in 2026, emphasizing personalized and emotional AI capabilities [3] Group 2: Market Recognition and Performance - Since its global debut in September 2025, the new generation BMW iX3 has received accolades such as the "Best Innovation Model" at the German "Golden Steering Wheel" awards and "Best Car of 2026" from Top Gear [4] - The iX3 has exceeded order expectations since its unveiling at the Munich Auto Show, with orders covering the entire year of 2026 [4] Group 3: Localization for Chinese Market - BMW has developed a long-wheelbase version of the iX3 specifically for the Chinese market, integrating local digital and entertainment ecosystems [6] - The Chinese version will feature a localized large language model, enhancing the BMW intelligent personal assistant for more natural interactions [6] - The long-wheelbase version is undergoing rigorous testing in China, with over 300 domestic test vehicles to ensure compatibility with local driving habits [6]

Core Viewpoint - BMW Group has announced a significant leadership change, with Milan Nedeljkovic set to succeed Oliver Zipse as CEO on May 14, 2026, marking a strategic move as the company navigates its electric transformation [2][3] Group 1: Leadership Transition - The announcement of the leadership change comes nearly two years in advance, providing clarity for both the market and internal stakeholders during a critical phase of electric transformation [2] - Oliver Zipse's tenure (2019-2026) has been marked by significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and semiconductor shortages, yet he maintained financial resilience and operational stability [3] - Zipse's most notable achievement was the establishment of the "Neue Klasse" project, which represents a comprehensive innovation across vehicle architecture, electric drive systems, battery technology, and sustainability, with an investment of several billion euros [3][4] Group 2: Strategic Focus - The new CEO, Milan Nedeljkovic, is tasked with ensuring the successful industrialization of the "Neue Klasse" strategy, particularly in the Chinese market, which is crucial for BMW's future [2][4] - Nedeljkovic has a strong background in production and has successfully led the implementation of the "iFactory" production strategy, focusing on flexibility, sustainability, and digitalization [5] - The transition reflects a shift in BMW's strategic focus from "technology innovation leadership" to "scale and efficiency victory" in response to the evolving automotive landscape [3][6] Group 3: Market Challenges - BMW faces significant challenges in financial performance, with a reported revenue of €99.999 billion for the first three quarters of 2025, a 5.6% decline year-on-year, primarily due to the contraction of traditional fuel vehicle sales and intensified market competition [7][8] - The company has seen a slight increase in global sales, with a total of 1.796 million vehicles sold, but electric vehicle sales only reached 323,000 units, indicating a penetration rate of approximately 18% [7] - In China, BMW's largest single market, deliveries fell by 11.2% year-on-year, highlighting the competitive pressure from local high-end electric vehicle brands [8][9] Group 4: Future Outlook - Nedeljkovic's leadership will be tested as he must ensure the successful launch of the first "Neue Klasse" model, the BMW iX3, in March 2026, while maintaining production quality and cost efficiency [9][10] - The upcoming "Neue Klasse" models will include designs tailored for the Chinese market, necessitating a deep understanding of local consumer preferences [9] - External pressures include stricter European emissions regulations and increasing competition from technology companies in areas like autonomous driving and smart cockpit features [10]

Core Viewpoint - BMW Group is undergoing a significant leadership change with Milan Nedeljković set to become the new Chairman of the Management Board starting May 14, 2026, succeeding Oliver Zipse, who has been in the role since August 2019 and will retire after a 35-year career with the company [3][4]. Group 1: Leadership Transition - Milan Nedeljković has been a member of the BMW Group Management Board since 2019, overseeing the production department and has extensive international operational experience since joining the company in 1993 [4]. - Oliver Zipse's tenure as Chairman has been marked by the execution of the largest strategic project in BMW's history, focusing on the launch of new generation models [3][4]. Group 2: Strategic Transformation - The new generation initiative represents BMW's largest investment since its inception, featuring a new architecture, design language, and sixth-generation electric drive technology [4]. - BMW plans to launch over 40 new models globally by 2027, including more than 20 new models in China during 2026 and 2027, which will include new generation vehicles [4]. Group 3: Financial Performance - BMW Group reported a revenue of €99.999 billion for the first three quarters of 2023, a decrease of 5.6% year-on-year, with a pre-tax profit (EBT) of €8.056 billion, down 9.1% [5]. - Global sales for the first three quarters reached 1.796 million units, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 2.4%, while pure electric vehicle sales rose to 323,000 units, up 10% [5]. - In the Chinese market, sales for the first three quarters were 465,000 units, representing an 11.2% decline year-on-year [5].

Group 1 - Oliver Zipse will retire as the Chairman of BMW Group's Management Board on May 13, 2026, after a career spanning 35 years with the company [2] - Milan Nedeljković will succeed Zipse as the new Chairman, effective from May 14, 2026, and has been a member of the Management Board since 2019 [2] - Nedeljković has extensive international operational experience, having joined BMW in 1993 and held various significant positions within the company [2] Group 2 - The transition in leadership occurs during a critical strategic transformation for BMW Group, with the "New Generation" project being the largest investment in the company's history [3] - The first production model of the New Generation, the BMW iX3, was globally launched on September 5, 2023, with a domestic version set to be released next year [3] - BMW plans to introduce over 40 new models globally by 2027, including more than 20 new vehicles in China during 2026 and 2027 [3] Group 3 - BMW Group reported a revenue of €99.999 billion for the first three quarters of 2023, a decrease of 5.6% year-on-year [3] - The group's earnings before tax (EBT) for the same period totaled €8.056 billion, down 9.1% compared to the previous year [3] - Global sales for the first three quarters reached 1.796 million units, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 2.4%, while pure electric vehicle sales rose by 10% to 323,000 units [3] - In the Chinese market, sales for the first three quarters were 465,000 units, representing a decline of 11.2% year-on-year [3]