Volkswagen made a big splash at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas by showcasing its all-new Golf GTI equipped with an on-board voice assistant backed by ChatGPT, a generative AI application. ChatGPT will be integrated into several VW electric and internal-combustion-engine vehicles, allowing drivers to interact with their cars in a more natural and conversational way.
While voice interaction with cars has been around for a while, VW aims to take it to the next level. Besides basic commands like adjusting cabin temperature or finding addresses, drivers can now have their VW vehicles read stories to their kids, find nearby pharmacies, or even recite recipes. This new AI-powered technology aims to make our cars as smart as our other devices like watches, phones, and TVs.
But Volkswagen wasn’t the only company showcasing the future of cars at CES. Tech giants Sony and LG also made their presence known. Sony unveiled a production-ready vehicle built in partnership with Honda under the Afeela brand. The sleek mid-size EV sedan boasts AI-augmented driver aids, air suspension, and the ability to charge at up to 150 kW. It even offers integration with PlayStation video games.
On the other hand, LG presented a concept car named the LG Alphable. This fully autonomous vehicle features swiveling seats, no steering wheel, and massive HD displays that replace the windshield. It also includes a video game system and a wine bar integrated into the back seats.
Kia took a different approach by showcasing the connected home capabilities of its all-new EV9 EV SUV. With the EV9 and the Wallbox Quasar 2 EV charging box, owners can connect their cars to their homes and use the vehicle as a power source in case of a power outage. Kia also introduced the Kia Connect app, allowing users to control charging settings and monitor their driving habits.
Overall, CES 2022 demonstrated that cars are becoming more than just transportation. They are transforming into communicators, entertainers, and even power sources. With voice assistants, AI technology, and smart features, our cars are evolving to keep up with our connected lifestyles. The future of automotive technology looks promising, and we can expect to see more innovations and advancements in the years to come.
