I think this is a myth - Chinese factories don't seem to be automated to a higher degree than European ones, and in any case are still full of Kuka, Fanuc and ABB robots.

I think there's a domestic brand or two that's gaining marketshare, but they're not there yet.

There's a myth of Chinese high-tech (esp in cars), that is not to say their stuff isn't technologically advanced, but the characterization that Chinese tech has left Europeans' behind just does not pass muster when one looks at mechanic videos of Chinese EVs.

Their cars look fancy and are full of futuristic screens and sensors, but the suspension setup and lot of engineering behind them is not exactly cutting edge.

That's why a lot of car reviewers say that a lot of their EVs don't drive particularly well

In a sense BMW has factories in China too (through Brilliance). I once heard the story that they built a 1:1 clone of the Dingolfing plant there.

The owner family did the right thing at the right time. If the Europe and US business tanks they will be fine. BMW as a brand not necessarily.