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At the CES on January 9, 2024, Volkswagen announced a major technological innovation that will be in its ID. The ChatGPT intelligent voice assistant has been added to several models of the series, and plans to make it a standard feature in its passenger cars. Volkswagen Group has been committed to electrification and intelligent transformation, and this move is seen as an important step in the field of software.
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In recent years, the Volkswagen Group has encountered some setbacks in its transition to electrification and intelligence, especially in terms of software. The problems have led to delays in the launch of new models from brands such as Porsche and Audi. However, despite the challenges, Volkswagen continues to innovate and introduce new technologies into its electric vehicle lineup. At CES, the company said its popular ChatGPT technology will be incorporated into production models.
According to Volkswagen Group, the latest update to their infotainment software will include the integration of ChatGPT into the back end of the automaker’s existing voice assistant “IDA.”Initially, IDA will be able to control cockpit functions such as the vehicle’s infotainment system, navigation and air conditioning, and be able to answer general questions. In the future, Volkswagen plans to allow AI to answer more questions related to vehicle-specific information.
The new voice assistant will first roll out on select models including the ID.7, ID.4, ID.5, ID.3, Tiguan, Passat, and Golf.
Kai Grunitz, Member of the Management Board for Technical Development of the Volkswagen Brand, said:”Volkswagen is now the first automaker to make this innovative technology standard in vehicles above compact size, and the seamless integration of ChatGPT and the close collaboration with our partner Cerence underscore the innovative power of our new product.”
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However, critics say that adding generative AI to cars, while a step forward from the interactions that are possible today, falls far short of what was expected of AI just a few years ago, especially when it comes to fully autonomous vehicles. Volkswagen disagrees.
“So if you’re using Apple CarPlay or Android, you can’t adjust the features in the car.” This is the next step, “Gruenitz said.” I think what our customers really want is seamless and intuitive use of their cars.”
Future plan
Volkswagen plans to roll out ChatGPT as a standard feature in more production models starting in the second quarter of 2024. The move contrasts with last year’s integration of ChatGPT into Mercedes-Benz’s EQE SUV, which wasn’t rolled out across such a wide range of models.
This news shows that Volkswagen is actively responding to the challenge, while constantly introducing innovative technologies to improve the intelligence level of its vehicle lineup.
