Aug. 28, 2025
Facing the early advantage of Chinese brands in smart technology, joint venture automakers are no longer staying silent. Recently, according to the New Energy Vehicle Industry Development Promotion Center of the China Association for Equipment Manufacturing, FAW Toyota has internally initiated the development of its next-generation intelligent cockpit, which is expected to be released in 2026 and installed in a new electric vehicle model. This move is seen as a “second wave of counterattack” by joint venture brands in the Chinese market.
Compared to the current bZ5’s “Toyota Space Smart Cabin,” the new-generation cockpit will feature deep integration with AI large models, support more precise emotional interaction, and achieve first-time linkage with intelligent driving. It will even sense the state of passengers and dynamically adjust cabin temperature and volume, with significant improvements in human-like and intelligent features.
FAW Toyota has set its benchmarking targets on NIO, Li Auto, and Huawei’s HarmonyOS cockpit, highlighting its determination for localization.
The current bZ5 cockpit is based on the Qualcomm 8155 chip, supports over 200 mainstream apps, and is equipped with JBL audio and a biometric monitoring system, offering a solid foundation of features. The next-generation system will focus on AI and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) integration. According to insiders, the main focus areas include “mainstream 3D HMI, VPA (Voice Personal Assistant) technology evolution, and innovative applications of AI in user interaction experience.”
FAW Toyota has made it clear when seeking partner companies that suppliers must possess innovative HMI interaction capabilities and be able to provide breakthrough solutions in AI and HMI integration, as well as in optimizing functional experiences.
Its open attitude is also noteworthy: “We are not only focusing on innovations under the AI background but also welcome other types of conceptual innovation explorations.” This shows Toyota’s pragmatic yet forward-looking strategy in its smart transformation.
A group of potential partner companies has already emerged, covering fields such as AI interaction platforms, knowledge base construction, simulation design, automated testing, and visual design, including Fubon Information, AiLabi Intelligence, and Xiangyu Intelligence.
The counterattack of joint venture automakers can be divided into two stages:
Stage One: Quickly bridging the technological gap by leveraging China’s supply chain to meet basic market needs for smart features.
Stage Two: Independent R&D combined with deep localization to build differentiated competitiveness.
FAW Toyota’s development of an AI cockpit marks the entry of joint venture brands into the second stage, where they no longer aim for mere usability but strive for differentiated competitiveness—possibly surpassing new energy startups.
In Toyota’s view, the smart cockpit will be an important weapon to achieve differentiation.
An FAW Toyota insider said, “Assisted intelligent driving does not need to be too radical, because safety must be ensured; therefore, Toyota hopes to demonstrate its competitive edge through the smart cockpit.”
This indicates that AI-driven, emotional, and personalized experiences will become the core selling points of its future products.
As FAW Toyota and other joint venture companies increase their investment in independent R&D for smart cockpits and autonomous driving, the competitive landscape of China’s automotive market is being reshaped. Chinese brands must accelerate technological iteration and experiential innovation, as competition shifts from “single-point battles” to “comprehensive system-level confrontations.”
By the time FAW Toyota’s AI cockpit goes into mass production in 2026, it may mark the beginning of the “Smart Car Competition Era,” ultimately benefiting consumers.
In 2026, the China International New Energy Vehicle Technology, Components, and Services Exhibition will gather global technology displays and interactive activities to provide a professional, international cooperation platform for supply chain enterprises. This exhibition is a reflection of our commitment to building a mature and complete supply chain ecosystem for China’s automotive industry.
（Domestic and international experts, industry leaders, automakers, and supply chain representatives from the previous session）
Event Highlights:
Global industry collaboration: Multinational trade negotiations focused on the new energy vehicle industry chain.
Full industry chain display: Hundreds of OEMs and Tier 1 & Tier 2 suppliers showcasing flagship products.
New product launches shaping future manufacturing: Cutting-edge technologies and products influencing 2025 automotive trends.
Over 500 high-quality exhibitors: Covering smart cockpits, autonomous driving, high-tech, and specialized innovation enterprises.
Multiple concurrent events: Rich agendas and diverse formats combining exhibition, business negotiations, resource matching, and social networking.
Participation Guide:
Time: March 13–16, 2026
Location: Beijing, New China International Exhibition Center Phase II (Hall A1)
For inquiries or reservations:
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