Hyundai, in collaboration with Naver, is developing a hybrid AI system for its upcoming cars’ infotainment systems and voice assistants. The partnership aims to create a large language model (LLM) that provides comprehensive answers by integrating Naver’s AI chatbot, Mapbox’s MapGPT, and Hyundai’s in-house voice assistant.
The president of Hyundai’s New Transportation-as-a-Service (TaaS) Division, Chang-Hyeon Song, shared details about the collaboration and the goals for future Hyundai models. Song highlighted the limitations of current LLMs, which lack access to vital data such as vehicle information, phone contacts, and driver details. To address these limitations, Hyundai envisions a hybrid system that combines various AI technologies.
Hyundai plans to introduce a new infotainment platform by 2026, allowing drivers to control in-car systems through voice commands. The platform will also integrate popular external apps like OpenTable and TripAdvisor, providing a seamless user experience within one ecosystem and by one voice assistant. The goal is to create a system that resembles CarPlay.
Chang-Hyeon Song’s background as a former employee at Apple and Microsoft, as well as the founder of Naver Labs, sheds light on Hyundai’s choice to collaborate with Naver. Leveraging Naver’s expertise in language models, Hyundai aims to develop an advanced AI system for its cars.
In addition to the AI assistant and infotainment system, Hyundai plans to offer an app marketplace to customers. By opening its application programming interface (API) to third-party developers, Hyundai invites them to enhance existing features using the company’s resources. This move sets Hyundai apart from other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and promotes openness and collaboration.
The initial focus of the app marketplace will be on integrating apps tightly with the vehicle, rather than overwhelming users with an excessive number of features. This approach ensures a smooth user experience and allows for gradual expansion over time.
Hyundai’s efforts to develop a hybrid AI system and launch an app marketplace demonstrate its commitment to providing advanced technology and a seamless user experience to its customers. By collaborating with Naver and leveraging its existing research on language models, Hyundai is aiming to enhance the capabilities of its cars’ infotainment systems and voice assistants.
With the introduction of the new infotainment platform and the app marketplace, Hyundai is set to transform the way drivers interact with their vehicles. The integration of AI technologies and third-party apps will offer users more convenience, control, and personalized experiences on the road. Customers can look forward to a future where their Hyundai cars become intelligent, connected companions that cater to their needs and preferences.
