The BMW Group is taking its digitalization efforts in Purchasing and Supplier Network to new heights with the introduction of generative AI. The company has developed an intelligent multi-agent system called AIconic Agent, designed to streamline information procurement and optimize decision-making processes.
Digitalization is a top strategic priority for the BMW Group’s Purchasing and Supplier Network. The organization is focusing on generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) to enhance efficiency and long-term viability. This is being achieved through innovative applications and strategic cooperation with the BMW Group’s IT hub in Romania.
“At the BMW Group, we view AI as more than just a technological innovation – it’s a key element of our digital transformation,” said Hendrik Lang, Senior Vice President Strategy, Digitalization and Sustainability, Purchasing and Supplier Network at BMW Group. “Empowering our people to use AI technologies is our top priority,” he added.
A company-wide AI platform supports customized applications to optimize processes, increase efficiency, and create innovative solutions. AI is used as a tool to complete tasks faster or automate subtasks, giving employees more freedom for creative thinking.
The BMW Group is building strategic AI expertise at its IT hub in Romania, where a team of experts will work on cutting-edge GenAI applications for internal processes worldwide by the end of the year. BMW TechWorks Romania, a joint venture between the BMW Group and NTT DATA Romania, is tasked with expanding the BMW Group’s Europe-based software expertise.
BMW Group Purchasing has been actively developing and implementing internal AI applications. Initial GenAI tools, including Knowledge Navigator, Offer Analyst, and Tender Assistant, were introduced in 2024. These applications serve as central knowledge databases that assist in analyzing and comparing supplier offers, as well as tender creation and management.
In late 2024, the BMW Group introduced the AIconic agent system, a central AI access point for the Purchasing and Supplier Network. This innovative AI solution combines natural language processing with intelligent algorithms to transform how teams search for and utilize information. The multi-agent system ensures fast, precise data searches and customized processing results for individual users.
The AIconic system has been well-received, with over 1,800 active users performing 10,000 searches. “Our multi-agent system AIconic significantly increases employee efficiency and productivity while setting new standards for AI usage,” emphasized Markus Kronen, Head of GenAI in Purchasing and Supplier Network at the BMW Group.
The AIconic system is continuously being updated, with a focus on becoming a proactive tool rather than just a passive search function. The system currently includes ten agents covering topics such as quality, purchasing, and supplier data. Future updates will enable AIconic to perform tasks without human supervision, such as monitoring supply chain data and identifying optimization potential.
To maximize the benefits of AI solutions, the BMW Group provides digital training and special AI innovation spaces for employees at all levels. Clear governance provides a framework for training and implementing AI solutions, ensuring their effective integration into the organization.
