German automaker Volkswagen has announced its plans to integrate an AI chatbot into its vehicles, transforming the driving experience. The AI-powered chatbot, developed in collaboration with software company Cerence and based on OpenAI’s large language model, will be released in Europe in the second quarter of 2024.
The integration of the AI chatbot into Volkswagen vehicles featuring the IDA voice assistant will allow drivers to have researched content read aloud while driving. In addition to answering general questions, the IDA voice assistant also manages the car’s infotainment, navigation, and air conditioning systems.
The AI chatbot, ChatGPT, offers more than just basic capabilities. It enriches conversations, answers driver queries, and provides hands-free vehicle-specific information. Initially, the new feature will be integrated into Volkswagen’s electric vehicle models such as ID.7, ID.4, ID.5, and ID.3, as well as the Tiguan, Passat, and Golf vehicles. However, the feature will not be available in Volkswagen models in the United States initially.
Volkswagen envisions future advancements where the AI chatbot will provide additional information, interact in intuitive language, and contribute to more enriched conversations. With the integration of the AI chatbot, Volkswagen aims to be the first volume manufacturer to standardize this feature in its compact cars.
The implementation of the AI chatbot does not require Volkswagen drivers to create a new account or install any additional software. The IDA voice assistant can be activated through user initiation by saying Hello IDA or using a button on the steering wheel.
It is important to note that the AI chatbot does not access any vehicle data, and questions and answers are promptly deleted to ensure data protection. Cerence Chat Pro, with the help of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, provides accurate and relevant responses to users’ queries.
The integration of AI-powered voice assistants in cars is gaining momentum as automotive technology advances. According to a report by Capgemini, it is projected that nearly 95% of consumers will utilize voice assistants in their cars within the next three years.
Mercedes-Benz has also introduced a new virtual assistant that can offer context-based suggestions and engage in dialogues with users. The assistant can communicate in different tones and conduct plausibility checks for its responses to ensure reliability.
In conclusion, Volkswagen’s integration of an AI chatbot into its vehicles marks another step in enhancing the driving experience. By providing drivers with hands-free access to researched content and vehicle-specific information, Volkswagen aims to revolutionize the way we interact with our cars.
