Volkswagen has unveiled its latest compact cars equipped with a voice assistant powered by ChatGPT technology at the CES electronics trade fair in Las Vegas.
The interior of the new Volkswagen Golf GTI with an integrated ChatGPT technology. Image credit: Volkswagen
The integration of ChatGPT functionality with the automaker’s IDA voice assistant has been accomplished through collaboration with Cerence Inc and using its Cerence Chat Pro technology. The chatbot allows drivers to control in-car entertainment and seek information by having content read aloud during their journeys.
Volkswagen claims to be the first volume manufacturer to make this technology a standard feature in its compact segment cars.
This advancement allows future Volkswagen models equipped with the IDA voice assistant to provide drivers with seamless access to a growing artificial intelligence database.
This chatbot integration is now part of the next-generation infotainment system available in various Volkswagen models, including the ID.7, ID.4, ID.5, ID.3, the all-new Tiguan, the all-new Passat, and the new Golf.
It offers enhanced functionalities beyond traditional voice control. The IDA voice assistant can now manage infotainment, navigation, air conditioning, and respond to general knowledge queries. As the AI capabilities continue to expand, drivers can expect even more comprehensive information, enriching conversations, addressing queries, and providing vehicle-specific details—all hands-free.
For the driver, there is no need to undergo any training or modify the driving style. No new accounts, app installations, or ChatGPT activation is required. Activating the voice assistant is as simple as saying “Hello IDA” or pressing the steering wheel button.
IDA automatically determines the priority of tasks, whether it involves executing a vehicle function, searching for a destination, or adjusting the temperature. In cases where the Volkswagen system can’t provide an answer, the query is sent anonymously to AI, and the familiar Volkswagen voice responds.
To maintain the highest level of data protection, ChatGPT does not access any vehicle data, and questions and answers are promptly deleted.
Written by Alius Noreika
