Huawei HiCar coming to BMW cars next year

Released in early May 2020, Huawei HiCar (official website in Chinese) is now available for roughly two dozen car manufacturers, and BMW vehicles made in China are also joining the list. This year, BMW Digital Key will launch for BMW users with Huawei smartphones. The functions provided will allow car owners to lock/unlock or start their vehicles via their handsets. However, the full experience will be provided starting next year, when BMW Neue Klasse models made in China will launch, integrating HiCar.

According to Sean Green, President and CEO of BMW Group Region China, quoted by China Daily,

"In China, nearly a quarter of MyBMW App users rely on Huawei devices. By deeply integrating with the HarmonyOS ecosystem, BMW will enhance in-car applications and digital connectivity services for HarmonyOS users, elevating intelligent experiences in high-frequency use scenarios."

The German carmaker is working with Chinese companies on large language models, generative AI, and intelligent voice interaction to provide the best smart car experience to local BMW users. The BMW Neue Klasse platform is entering production soon, according to Car and Driver, which mentioned that the iX3 electric SUV will be the first such vehicle to hit the market. An electric 3-series sedan will follow in 2026, reveals the same source, mentioning i3 as the possible name of this upcoming car.