At the heart of Volkswagen Group’s presentation in Beijing ahead of Auto China 2026, artificial intelligence is no longer a supporting feature – it is being integrated into driver-assistance and digital systems as part of its broader “In China, for China” strategy.
The latest presentation by the Group under the theme “Auto China 2026” indicates that the use of AI technology is focused on enabling intelligent, connected vehicle functions, supporting its goal of more intuitive and integrated mobility.
In a statement, the Group said it will launch over 20 new electrified vehicles (NEVs—including pure electric models, plug-in hybrids, and range-extender variants) in 2026, alongside the rollout of AI-powered driver-assistance and intelligent in-car systems.
In contrast to previous approaches that mainly centered on the development of hardware and performance capabilities, Volkswagen has been making efforts to create cars that are able to adapt to user preferences through software and connected systems.
AI technologies have been designed to enable features such as personalized cockpit interaction and driver-assistance functions. This marks a transition from traditional engineering to experience-driven and software-defined vehicle development, where software intelligence plays an increasing role alongside mechanical precision.
A major pillar of this transformation is advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). China-based CARIZON, the joint venture between Volkswagen’s software subsidiary CARIAD and Horizon Robotics in China, is heavily integrated with artificial intelligence.
Volkswagen said its Level 2 system, AI-powered ADAS system for the next generation of intelligent electric vehicles, enable Navigation on Autopilot (NOA) in both urban and highway environments, along with automated parking functions.
The company added that CARIZON is also working on its own system-on-chip (SoC) development to support more advanced levels of automated driving in the future.
The automaker pointed out that AI would play a crucial role in developing assistance programs. For example, such solutions as highway and urban guidance and parking are expected to alleviate pressure on drivers while providing higher road safety and driving convenience in specific use cases.
Moreover, the Volkswagen Group will deploy AI within the cars’ cabin. For instance, smart cockpits powered by AI will be able to respond to voice commands, allowing integrated control of settings such as navigation, music and climate.
The stiff competition within the domestic electric vehicle manufacturers to strengthen their AI and software capabilities. Overall, Volkswagen is not concentrating only on electric cars but also on integrating AI-enabled systems, particularly in ADAS and cockpit functions, into its broader China strategy.
