Volkswagen, the German automaker, unveiled plans at CES 2024 in Las Vegas to incorporate an AI-powered chatbot into its vehicle models equipped with the IDA voice assistant. This move aims to cater to drivers desiring an AI-based chatbot to read researched content aloud. TechCrunch tested the ChatGPT feature and noted some occasional trickiness.
The AI chatbot, based on Cerence’s Chat Pro and OpenAI’s language model, is set to debut in Europe in the second quarter. Volkswagen’s EV lineup, including ID.7, ID.4, ID.5, and ID.3, alongside Tiguan, Passat, and Golf vehicles, will receive the AI feature.
However, the United States models are pending approval for the ChatGPT feature. Volkswagen mentioned it’s under consideration and awaiting internal approvals.
Notably, ChatGPT is a text-generating AI chatbot developed by OpenAI, integrated into the IDA voice assistant, following in the footsteps of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX system.
Volkswagen promises expanded capabilities, including enriching conversations, answering questions, and providing intuitive language interactions, all hands-free. The company utilizes a Cerence-provided large language model called Calm, specifically designed for about 10,000 vehicle-related questions.
Post-launch, drivers will interact with the IDA voice assistant as usual. If a request exceeds the voice assistant’s capability, it will be redirected to the AI chatbot, with responses relayed through the IDA voice assistant.
Cerence has implemented restrictions on the chatbot, ensuring it avoids answering profanity, explicit content, or sensitive topics. The companies are exploring further collaboration to design a new large language model (LLM)-based user experience for Volkswagen’s next-generation in-car assistant.