Volkswagen Partners with Cerence Inc, First Major Carmaker to Implement ChatGPT; VW Group’s MEB and MQB Evo Models to Feature Automotive-Grade ChatGPT Integration, Ensuring Personal Data Protection as ChatGPT Lacks Vehicle Information Access.
During CES 2024, January 9-12, in Las Vegas, Volkswagen unveils the integration of ChatGPT into its IDA voice assistant, marking a global first for vehicles. This AI-based chatbot will soon be available in all Volkswagen models with IDA, providing access to an ever-expanding AI database and having content read out during drives.
The integration is based on Cerence Chat Pro, which Volkswagen’s tech partner Cerence Inc. developed. It represents a sophisticated, automotive-grade ChatGPT integration. Starting in the second quarter of 2024, Volkswagen will become the first mass manufacturer to standardize Chat GPT in many of its production vehicles.
The new ChatGPT feature, paired with the latest infotainment systems, will be available in models like ID.703, ID.4, ID.5, ID.3, the new Tiguan and Passat, and the Golf04. Enabled by Cerence Chat Pro, this integration enhances the Volkswagen voice assistant’s capabilities beyond traditional voice control. IDA can manage infotainment, navigation, and air conditioning and answer general knowledge questions. Future AI enhancements will add more depth to these capabilities, facilitating hands-free interactions, vehicle-specific information, and more.
Volkswagen assures that ChatGPT does not access vehicle data. Activation is simple: saying ‘Hello IDA’ or pressing a steering wheel button. IDA intelligently prioritizes requests, from vehicle functions to information searches. Unanswerable queries are anonymously sent to AI, with responses delivered in the Volkswagen voice.
Data protection is paramount; queries are immediately deleted after being answered. Cerence Chat Pro employs various sources, including ChatGPT, to enable IDA’s accurate and relevant responses. This feature emphasizes security and seamless integration with IDA’s functions, enhancing the driver experience.
Kai Grünitz, Volkswagen Board Member for Technical Development, emphasizes Volkswagen’s commitment to making technology accessible. The partnership with Cerence and the integration of ChatGPT exemplifies this commitment, offering drivers direct access to AI-based tools and showcasing Volkswagen’s innovative capabilities.
Stefan Ortmanns, CEO of Cerence, highlights the collaboration’s focus on leveraging generative AI and large language models to enhance post-purchase vehicle experiences. Cerence Chat Pro’s integration with Volkswagen exemplifies flexibility, customization, security, and driver usability. Looking ahead, Volkswagen and Cerence aim to develop a large-language model-based user experience for Volkswagen’s next-generation in-car assistant.
