Introduction

How is intelligent technology empowering industrial upgrades? How does “Artificial Intelligence +” open new spaces for industrial development? In China, a burgeoning innovation hub, a vibrant scene is unfolding where domestic and foreign enterprises accelerate the application of AI across various scenarios, integrating it into the future industrial landscape.

Siemens Technology Conference

At the recent Siemens Technology Conference held in Beijing, the synergy between artificial intelligence and industry was palpable. From industrial AI and digital twins to embodied intelligence, each technology was tangible. Entering the conference’s tech exhibition area, attendees experienced an immersive glimpse into the future of industry: enjoying the fun of a claw machine while using Siemens’ intelligent monitoring assistant, OWL, to understand how AI algorithms identify targets, plan paths, and execute tasks precisely.

AI in Agriculture

In Shouguang, Shandong Province, known as the “vegetable capital,” artificial intelligence is increasingly prevalent in greenhouse management, significantly enhancing labor productivity. With the addition of sensors for temperature, light, water, and nutrients, planting data can be transmitted in real-time. Local grower Yin Jinhua stated that manual control of equipment is no longer necessary; remote control via smartphone is now possible.

From April 20 to May 30, the 27th China (Shouguang) International Vegetable Science Expo took place at the Shouguang High-Tech Vegetable Demonstration Park, showcasing all-weather field environment control equipment.

AI in Seed Development

When AI algorithms meet seed research and development, what sparks will fly? Cheng Lin, director of the R&D center at Shouguang Vegetable Seed Industry Group, leads a team to accelerate the establishment and improvement of AI breeding accelerators, utilizing big data platforms combined with AI for predictive breeding. She noted that with sufficiently rich data, it is possible not only to predict gene functions and market preferences but also to anticipate potential diseases and achieve proactive prevention.

AI in Transportation

AI is also accelerating its application in transportation. In Zhengzhou, Henan Province, a cute, smart, connected electric bus named “Xiao Yu” passed by the reporter. Without a steering wheel or manual operation, “Xiao Yu” can autonomously change lanes, avoid obstacles, park, and charge. Currently, “Xiao Yu” is in mass operation in cities like Zhengzhou, Guangzhou, Chongqing, and Beijing.

Wang Kun, deputy general manager of Yutong’s Deep Blue Power, stated that in addition to “Xiao Yu,” Yutong’s management platform “Anruitong” is also leveraging AI to enhance operational efficiency. This vehicle networking system assists fleets in intelligent operational management, monitoring vehicle routes, energy consumption data, and dangerous driving behaviors, while automatically generating reports daily to support efficient fleet operations.

In the intelligent dispatch center of Zhoukou Port, Henan Port and Shipping Group, every vehicle entry and exit, cargo stacking, and ship docking relies on the center’s “brain” for intelligent judgment. Previously, loading a container required at least 3 to 5 people; now, one operator can control the loading remotely via a screen using two small handles. The reporter also observed a remote-controlled container truck cockpit, where operators can manage the truck from a distance.

Conclusion

These scenes of domestic and foreign enterprises accelerating the integration of AI into reality are supported by China’s vast market space and open innovation ecosystem. From the State Council’s opinions on deeply implementing the “Artificial Intelligence +” initiative to the 14th Five-Year Plan’s emphasis on comprehensively promoting intelligent technology empowerment, AI is becoming a “key variable” and a strong driver for high-quality economic development in China.

By 2025, China’s core AI industry is expected to exceed 1.2 trillion yuan, with over 6,200 companies. China leads the world in the download volume of open-source large models, significantly lowering the barriers to AI usage. By the end of last year, the application rate of AI technology among large-scale manufacturing enterprises in China exceeded 30%, greatly enhancing the quality and efficiency of design, manufacturing, and quality inspection processes.

As Siemens’ Chairman of the Board, Roland Busch, stated, China is not only a key market but also one of the world’s important innovation centers for AI. Siemens chose to hold its first technology conference in China because many innovations first emerge there, making it a prime market for launching new technologies.

An open and innovative China is providing a collaborative and win-win ecosystem for domestic and foreign enterprises to co-create a new landscape for “Artificial Intelligence +,” continuously adding new momentum to its economic development and expanding new space for global economic growth.