Volkswagen has announced its partnership with voice recognition company Cerence to enhance the infotainment systems in their cars. The collaboration will introduce ChatGPT, an advanced conversational AI and natural language processing technology, to the VW ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, ID.7, Tiguan, Passat, and Golf models from mid-2024.
By saying Hello IDA, VW drivers will be able to control various features of their cars, including infotainment, navigation, and climate control, through voice commands. The system will also offer a general-knowledge search function. Notably, VW has assured that ChatGPT will not have access to any vehicle data, and search queries and answers will be deleted immediately.
Thomas Ullrich, a member of VW’s management board responsible for new mobility, expressed the importance of deploying innovative AI-powered technology quickly. He stated that by leveraging Cerence ChatGPT, VW aims to provide added value and an engaging user experience to customers without significant integration effort or long development timelines.
The CEO of Cerence, Stefan Ortmanns, shared his pride in continuing the partnership with Volkswagen and delivering new innovation to customers. He emphasized the speed and agility of both companies to bring this project to life within a few short weeks, highlighting their commitment to enhancing the in-car user experience using AI advancements.
VW is not the only automaker considering ChatGPT for their vehicles. General Motors has also been experimenting with the technology, and Mercedes-Benz previously conducted a beta program to improve its natural language processing capabilities in the MBUX infotainment system, which is powered by Cerence.
The integration of advanced voice recognition technology is expected to revolutionize the way drivers interact with their vehicles. As the CES showcases the latest advancements in the automotive industry, it is evident that voice recognition is becoming a crucial aspect of modern infotainment systems. With its partnership with Cerence, VW aims to provide drivers with a seamless and user-friendly experience, ultimately enhancing their journey on the road.
