The head of German auto giant BMW on Tuesday expressed confidence that the company will remain an iconic industry leader, saying it is poised to shape the future of individual mobility.

Oliver Zipse, chairman of the board of management and CEO of BMW AG, made the remarks ahead of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit to China.

Merz arrived in Beijing on Wednesday for a two-day official visit, his first since taking office last May, accompanied by top executives from about 30 German firms, including BMW.

In an exclusive interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN), Zipse outlined a series of key factors that he said would position the company for a stronger future.

He stressed that BMW will remain a leader in individual mobility, citing electrification, digitalization, artificial intelligence, sustainability, growing regulatory scrutiny, and its strong global strategy and partnerships as key drivers of future success.

"Individual mobility remains highly important and a very attractive industry. We see major trends which have a major impact: electrification, digitalization and artificial intelligence, sustainability, and scrutiny from regulators worldwide. We have a strong business model and all the ingredients for future success. A consistent strategy, a pioneering spirit across the entire value chain, a strong global footprint, successful cross-border partnerships, financial stability, and long-standing customer orientation. Therefore, we are confident that we will continue to shape the industry's future and to play a leading role," he said.