Jan 09, 2024 17:00:00

Volkswagen announces integration of conversational AI 'ChatGPT' into in-vehicle voice assistant

Major car manufacturer Volkswagen announced at the electronics trade show

CES 2024 being held in Las Vegas that it will integrate the conversational AI ``ChatGPT'' developed by OpenAI into its in-vehicle voice assistant. This will allow the driver to use natural dialogue to give navigation instructions, adjust the air conditioning, and even ask questions and have conversations.

World premiere at CES: Volkswagen integrates ChatGPT into its vehicles | Volkswagen Newsroom
https://www.volkswagen-newsroom.com/en/press-releases/world-premiere-at-ces-volkswagen-integrates-chatgpt-into-its-vehicles-18048

VW vehicles to converse with drivers via ChatGPT by mid-year | Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/volkswagen-brings-chatgpt-into-compact-cars-2024-01-08/

Volkswagen says it's putting ChatGPT in its cars for 'enriching conversations' - The Verge
https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/8/24027112/volkswagen-chatgpt-openai-voice-assistant-cars-ces

Volkswagen announced at CES 2024 that it will market a vehicle that integrates ChatGPT with the in-vehicle voice assistant 'IDA' in the second quarter of 2024. IDA with integrated ChatGPT will be available in the ID.7, ID.5, ID.4, and ID.3 electric SUVs, as well as the new Tiguan, new Passat, and new Golf, and will initially be rolled out in Europe and North America. is.

Volkswagen said it worked with third-party company Cerence to integrate ChatGPT into the backend of its in-car voice assistant. By integrating ChatGPT into an in-car voice assistant, users can use their voice to control the car's infotainment system and air conditioning, give navigation commands, and ask general questions.

Drivers don't need to create a new account or install a new app to enable ChatGPT; they can simply say 'Hello IDA' or press a button on the steering wheel. conversation becomes possible. Additionally, ChatGPT does not have access to vehicle statistics and questions and answers are immediately deleted, ensuring the highest possible data protection.

Volkswagen's official YouTube channel has posted a video that shows an example of a conversation between IDA and a driver.

GET READY: The all new Volkswagen ID.7with ChatGPT presented by Ewan McGregor @CES 2024 - YouTube


A man gets into a Volkswagen.

'Hello, Aida. Is

a kilt formal enough for an event like walking a red carpet?'

IDA responded, ``According to ChatGPT, people consider kilts to be a classy outfit that is suitable for formal wear.''

When the man said, 'That's good. Find the nearest quilt shop,' IDA responded, 'OK,' and immediately displayed directions on the navigation system in front of it.

Furthermore, when the man instructed, ``And please play a Scottish playlist,'' IDA began to play Scottish music firmly.

'At Volkswagen, we have always democratized technology and made it available to the masses. This is deeply ingrained in our DNA,' said Kai Grünitz, Volkswagen's Director of Brand Technology Development. As a result, we are the first mass-produced manufacturer to standardize this innovative technology on commercial vehicles. Thanks to ChatGPT's seamless integration and strong collaboration with our partner Cerence, we are delivering added value to our drivers. and direct access to AI-based tools.”

The Verge, an overseas media outlet, said that although voice assistants equipped with ChatGPT can perform various tasks, there are cases where they give false answers to questions, so ultimately the user's judgment is recommended. pointing out. Still, he argued that the reason why Volkswagen decided to integrate ChatGPT and voice assistants was because sales volume was sluggish in 2023, and it was hoping for a boost from the flow of AI.