Volkswagen integrates ChatGPT into its vehicles

This integration enables seamless access to an expansive AI database for all Volkswagen models equipped with the IDA voice assistant, allowing drivers to have content read to them while on the move. The underlying technology, Cerence Chat Pro, provided by Cerence Inc., offers an automotive-grade ChatGPT integration, making Volkswagen the first mainstream car manufacturer to standardise this feature in numerous production vehicles starting the second quarter of 2024.

The integration will be available in the latest infotainment systems of models like ID.703, ID.4, ID.5, ID.3, Tiguan, Passat, and the new Golf04. Cerence Chat Pro's implementation allows ChatGPT to enhance the backend of Volkswagen's voice assistant, expanding its capabilities beyond traditional voice control. This includes managing infotainment, navigation, and air conditioning systems, and addressing general knowledge inquiries. The AI's ever-evolving features can provide additional information, fostering enhanced in-car conversations and hands-free interactions.

For drivers, the process remains unchanged. Accessing this feature doesn’t require new accounts or apps; a simple voice command to IDA or a steering wheel button press activates the assistant. IDA smartly discerns whether to execute a vehicle function, search a destination, or adjust settings. If Volkswagen's system can't fulfil a request, it is anonymously passed to AI, and responses come through the familiar Volkswagen voice.

ChatGPT does not access vehicle data, and queries are immediately deleted, ensuring robust data protection. Cerence Chat Pro integrates various sources, including ChatGPT, to enable IDA to provide accurate and relevant answers to a wide range of queries, prioritising security, and smooth integration with IDA's extensive capabilities.

"Volkswagen has always democratised technology and made it accessible to the many. This is simply ingrained in our DNA. As a result, we are now the first volume manufacturer to make this innovative technology a standard feature in vehicles from the compact segment upwards. Thanks to the seamless integration of ChatGPT and strong collaboration with our partner, Cerence, we are offering our drivers added value and direct access to the AI-based research tool. This also underlines the innovative strength of our new products," says Kai Grünitz, Member of the Board of Management Volkswagen Brand for technical Development.

"We are proud to build on our automotive expertise and our long-standing partnership with Volkswagen to offer its customers new innovations that leverage generative AI and large language models – even after they have purchased a vehicle," says Stefan Ortmanns, CEO of Cerence. “With Cerence Chat Pro, VW is empowered with an automotive-grade ChatGPT integration that offers unmatched flexibility, customisation, and ease of deployment, while prioritising security and usability for drivers. As we look to the future, together Volkswagen and Cerence will explore collaboration to design a new, large-language-model-based (LLM) user experience as the foundation of Volkswagen’s next-generation in-car assistant."