On February 25, Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW Group, joined German Chancellor Merz on a visit to China. During this visit, Zipse signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on cooperation with CATL on behalf of BMW Group. The collaboration between the two entities centers on joint efforts to reduce carbon emissions within the power battery supply chain. Their goal is to systematically lower the carbon footprint of electric vehicles and further sustainable development initiatives. Zipse underscored the significance of cooperation and open innovation, highlighting China's pivotal role in BMW's global strategy. BMW has poured over 120 billion yuan into its Shenyang production hub, setting up four R&D and innovation centers, as well as three software companies. Moreover, BMW's inaugural locally-produced next-generation model, the long-wheelbase version of the new BMW iX3, is set to make its global premiere at the Beijing Auto Show in April.