Volkswagen, the German automaker, has recently announced the introduction of an AI chatbot called ChatGPT in its cars. This chatbot will be integrated into Volkswagen’s IDA voice assistant, enhancing the overall control and information capabilities of the system.
The IDA voice assistant, powered by Cerence Chat Pro, can be activated by saying Hello IDA or by pressing the button on the steering wheel. It prioritizes various commands such as executing vehicle functions, searching for destinations, or adjusting the temperature inside the car.
In cases where the Volkswagen system is unable to answer a specific request, the query is anonymously forwarded to the AI, and the familiar Volkswagen voice responds accordingly. It is important to note that ChatGPT does not gain access to any vehicle data, and all questions and answers are immediately deleted to ensure the highest level of data protection.
Volkswagen plans to offer ChatGPT as a standard feature in many of its production vehicles starting from the second quarter of 2024. This makes Volkswagen the first volume manufacturer to provide such a feature. The new chatbot will be available in models like ID.7, ID.4, ID.5, ID.3, the all-new Tiguan, the all-new Passat, and the new Golf.
Kai Grunitz, Member of the Board of Management Volkswagen Brand for technical Development, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with Cerence, stating, Thanks to the seamless integration of ChatGPT and strong collaboration with our partner, Cerence, we are offering our drivers added value and direct access to the AI-based research tool.
With the integration of ChatGPT, the IDA voice assistant can be used to control various functions like the infotainment system, navigation, air conditioning, and even answer general knowledge questions. Furthermore, Volkswagen aims to continuously expand AI capabilities in order to provide more information in response to a wider range of questions.
Stefan Ortmanns, CEO of Cerence, emphasized the advantages of their partnership with Volkswagen, stating, With Cerence Chat Pro, VW is empowered with an automotive-grade ChatGPT integration that offers unmatched flexibility, customization, and ease of deployment, while prioritizing security and usability for drivers.
This introduction of the AI chatbot ChatGPT by Volkswagen signifies the brand’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies into their vehicles, enhancing the overall driving experience for their customers. The seamless integration of ChatGPT with the IDA voice assistant ensures a smoother and more personalized interaction between drivers and their Volkswagen cars.
In conclusion, Volkswagen’s integration of ChatGPT into its cars’ IDA voice assistant represents a significant advancement in the automotive industry. The utilization of AI technologies like ChatGPT enhances control, provides valuable information, and offers a unique driving experience for Volkswagen customers. With its upcoming availability in multiple models, Volkswagen continues to lead the way in adopting innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of drivers.
