Mercedes-Benz is turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to develop its future cars faster, with a new system that could cut development time by up to 30%.
The move comes as Chinese carmakers continue to develop new vehicles at an impressive speed. Mercedes now wants to use AI to improve its own development process and compete in a changing global car market.
The company’s new system, called PLM.AI, connects information from different parts of the business. These include vehicle development, purchasing, production, sales and after-sales services.
For Mercedes-Benz fans, this could mean a faster arrival of future models. It could also change how the company designs, tests and prepares its cars for the market.
How will AI change future Mercedes-Benz cars?
Mercedes-Benz Chief Technology Officer Jörg Burzer described the speed of Chinese carmakers as “outstanding” in an interview with Australia’s Drive magazine.
He said “The competition benefits customers. He also expressed confidence in Mercedes’ ability to compete in both China and Europe.
Mercedes sees AI as one way to respond to this competition. PLM.AI will bring information from different departments into one connected system. This will help engineers find problems earlier and compare different technical options”.
The company expects the system to reduce overall vehicle development time by up to 30%. It could also improve efficiency in individual engineering processes by up to 50%.
Mercedes already uses AI tools to support several tasks. These include reducing material costs, managing vehicle approvals, finding faults and developing software.
PLM.AI will connect these separate tools through shared data systems. As a result, teams can access the information they need more quickly.
However, Mercedes says AI will not replace its engineers. Human experts will continue to make the final decisions, especially when quality and safety are involved.
The company also expects digital simulations to reduce the need for physical testing by up to 50% over time.
What new Mercedes-Benz models are coming?
The AI push comes as Mercedes-Benz prepares a large wave of new and updated models. The upcoming line-up includes a new entry-level model and the next-generation CLA.
Mercedes is also working on an electric E-Class, which will bring electric power to one of its best-known model families. Fans of the G-Class also have new models to watch. The company is preparing a smaller version known as the baby G-Class.
Another planned model is the return of the G-Class Convertible. These additions will expand the brand’s range across different vehicle types and price segments.
For Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts, the coming years could bring more choices across its passenger car and SUV line-ups.
Can Mercedes develop cars faster without losing quality?
Mercedes says faster development will not come at the expense of safety or quality. Its engineers will remain responsible for key decisions. AI will support their work by helping them process information, identify problems and test ideas more efficiently.
The company has not suggested that AI will independently design and approve its future vehicles. Instead, Mercedes wants to give its engineering teams better tools and more time to focus on important decisions.
With PLM.AI and its planned model launches, Mercedes-Benz is preparing for a faster development process.
The real test will be how quickly these changes translate into new cars that customers can see, drive and experience.
AI & Technology Motor Industry Wheel
Last modified: November 6, 2026
