The automotive industry is essential for modern mobility, but owning a vehicle involves significant ongoing expenses such as fuel, insurance, maintenance, and depreciation, which vary depending on the country and local regulations. A breakdown of the real cost of car ownership in Qatar can be found here: https://politicser.com/what-it-really-costs-to-own-a-car-in-qatar/.
As the automotive sector evolves, technology is playing a growing role in improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. Artificial intelligence (AI) in the automotive industry refers to the use of technologies such as machine learning (ML), deep learning, and computer vision to transform how vehicles are designed, manufactured, operated, and maintained, helping shape the future of mobility.
How AI is changing the car industry
AI systems in cars are all about taking a ton of real-time data from drivers and sensors and turning it into useful information. This helps create safer, more efficient, and greener vehicles. This tech isn’t just upgrading the cars themselves; it’s also making behind-the-scenes stuff like manufacturing and supply chains run smoother.
Car companies are all-in on AI
The auto industry has always been quick to jump on new tech, and AI is no exception. We’re already seeing it in action with:
- Making electric vehicles (EVs) better.
- Developing self-driving cars.
- Improving driver-assistance features.
- Predicting when a car needs maintenance before it breaks down.
AI is already making money for car brands
A report from IBM found that car companies are already seeing more revenue thanks to their investments in AI. Car execs expect AI to make up 9% of their total revenue in just three years, up from 5% today. They also think AI will make their products seem 22% more valuable and their digital services 37% more valuable.

Why is AI such a big deal for cars?
People today expect their cars to be smart. There’s a big push for lower emissions with EVs, AI-powered pricing for services, and a more personalized experience when you buy a car.
Cars are becoming computers on wheels
To keep up, the industry is shifting to a “software-defined” future. This means companies are rebuilding their operations around digital tech. They’re using AI and automation to stand out from the competition. In fact, 74% of execs surveyed by IBM think that by 2035, cars will be mostly software-defined and powered by AI.
The new focus: ai and software-defined vehicles (SDVs)
Most car companies are now busy developing software-defined vehicles (SDVs) with AI at their core. They see AI as a key ingredient to make their products more valuable and stay ahead of the game. The industry is moving from being about mechanics and engineering to being about software and data.
A brand used to be all about a car’s design and safety rating. Now, with SDVs, it’s about creating a great, data-driven experience for everyone in the car. This has led car execs to nearly triple their R&D budgets for software.
New ways to make money with SDVs
The IBM report mentions that car companies expect to make recurring revenue from SDV features like self-driving capabilities, in-car entertainment, and remote diagnostics. But as the report notes, “the dizzying pace of technology advancements makes it difficult to predict customer expectations 10 years from now.”
What’s next?
The future of AI in the car industry is all about creating amazing digital experiences and helping brands stand out. With smart, AI-driven software, car makers can offer unique experiences that show they really get what their customers want.
