Volkswagen has taken a significant stride towards next-gen vehicle interaction by announcing the integration of Generative AI technology into its forthcoming electric vehicles. A key player in this groundbreaking endeavor is Seren, a technology partner, whose Cerence Chat Pro, an automotive-grade ChatGPT integration, will be incorporated into Volkswagen’s existing IDA voice assistant.

IDA’s Transformation

IDA, the current system, can perform rudimentary tasks such as adjusting climate controls, sending messages, and conducting simple destination searches. However, with the forthcoming integration of ChatGPT, IDA is set to evolve and comprehend natural language commands in a far more nuanced, human-like manner. For instance, a comment as casual as ‘I’m chilly’ would signal IDA to increase the car’s temperature accordingly. This advanced functionality extends to more specific requests as well, like finding Italian restaurants when someone expresses a craving for chicken Parmesan.

Unleashing New Possibilities

IDA will also be capable of tackling complex questions that go beyond car functions, a feature that promises to transform the driving experience. The transition to the advanced system will be effortless for users. It’s cloud-based, meaning there’s no need for downloads or new account setups. This seamless integration prioritizes security, with Volkswagen reassuring that ChatGPT won’t access any vehicle data. All interactions are promptly deleted, underscoring the company’s commitment to data protection.

Rollout and Future Prospects

This cutting-edge technology is expected to debut in Europe in Q2 2024, with its introduction to North America anticipated later the same year. Volkswagen’s ID four and ID seven models will be the first to benefit from this advanced feature, heralding a new era in automotive technology where AI plays a more central, interactive role.