Volkswagen Integrates ChatGPT Into Vehicle Voice Assistants Starting In Europe
Volkswagen announced at CES 2024 that it is adding a ChatGPT-powered chatbot to its IDA voice assistant across several models. The feature launches in Europe during the second quarter, while US availability remains pending internal approval.
Volkswagen reveals at CES 2024 that it integrates ChatGPT into its IDA voice assistant across multiple vehicle models. The automaker uses Cerence’s Chat Pro product and OpenAI’s large language model to enable drivers to access researched content and general knowledge hands-free. This move makes Volkswagen the largest automaker to date to adopt ChatGPT for its in-car infotainment system.
The AI chatbot rolls out in the second quarter of the year, starting with European markets. Compatible models include the ID.7, ID.4, ID.5, and ID.3 electric vehicles, as well as the new Tiguan, Passat, and Golf. Meanwhile, Volkswagen states that US availability is still under consideration and going through internal approvals before a potential launch.
Drivers activate the feature using the "Hello IDA" wake word or a steering wheel button, and the system routes complex queries anonymously to the ChatGPT backend. Volkswagen also employs a separate, narrower large language model from Cerence called CaLLM to handle approximately 10,000 vehicle-specific questions. Although TechCrunch finds the AI can still be tricked in some cases, the integration promises to enrich conversations and expand the capabilities of the existing voice assistant.