Chongqing - On September 28, automotive industry leaders gathered in Chongqing to discuss the future of China's car sector, with a clear consensus: artificial intelligence (AI) will be central to the transformation. 

Key figures, including Zhu Huarong of Changan Automobile, Li Shufu of Geely, Zhang Xinghai of Seres, and Yin Qi of Afari Technology, outlined how AI is reshaping the industry.

An interview with Zhu Huarong of Changan Automobile, Li Shufu of Geely, Zhang Xinghai of Seres, and Yin Qi of Afari Technology. (Photo/Afari Technology)

Zhu Huarong, chairman of Changan Automobile, recalled Changan's early recognition of AI's potential, starting its digital transformation in 2017. "We realized that digital cars would be the future, evolving from vehicles to smart 'robots,'" he said. 

This focus on AI was echoed by Zhang Xinghai, chairman of Seres, who described the car as transforming from a transportation tool to a "mobile intelligent entity" powered by AI. For Zhang, AI is no longer optional but essential to the future of the industry.

Li Shufu, chairman of Geely, highlighted AI's growing influence, noting that once it accumulates enough data, it will revolutionize the entire automotive supply chain. "AI will become a super brain, far surpassing the capabilities of an experienced driver," Li said. 

Yin Qi, chairman of Afari Technology, added that AI has transitioned from solving specific problems to tackling broader challenges, with intelligent driving as a prime example.

Looking ahead, the leaders envisioned cars playing multiple roles. Zhu predicted that future vehicles will serve as life assistants, work companions, income generators, and emotional partners. Changan's reverse charging technology, which allows cars to generate income by charging during off-peak hours, is an example of this new functionality.

Li shared a broader vision, where AI and autonomous vehicles integrate with low-altitude flying cars and water-based transport to create a seamless multi-modal transportation network. "This will not only ease congestion but revolutionize transportation," he said. Zhang further described cars as becoming "super spaces" and "all-around companions" for future generations.

Despite these exciting possibilities, safety remains a key concern. Li emphasized that AI should enhance vehicle safety, not compromise it. Zhang agreed, stressing the importance of combining software-driven vehicles with robust physical structures to ensure security.

As AI reshapes the automotive landscape, the debate continues on whether companies should build independent ecosystems or foster cross-industry collaborations. Li argued that both are necessary. "For shared issues, collaboration is key. For unique needs, companies must retain control of their technology," he explained.

Zhang cited Seres' partnership with Huawei as a successful example of this collaboration. "Huawei brings software expertise, and Seres excels in manufacturing. Together, we create a stronger product," Zhang said. Yin concluded that AI is not just a tool for automakers but an enabler for the entire industry, urging deeper cooperation between AI companies and carmakers to unlock AI's full potential.