Volkswagen Integrates ChatGPT into Vehicle Design

Volkswagen has taken a significant step forward by integrating ChatGPT into many of its models. This innovative technology is currently available only in Europe and spans popular models such as the electric ID family, the new Golf, Tiguan, and Passat. North American drivers can expect this functionality in the near future.

Advanced Integration of ChatGPT

Starting in the second quarter of 2024, ChatGPT will be offered with the latest generation of infotainment systems in the first markets for the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, and ID.7 electric models, as well as the Tiguan, Passat, and Golf. According to Volkswagen, integrating ChatGPT into the backend of the IDA voice assistant will offer new possibilities that “go far beyond previous voice control.” Customers will be able to “seamlessly access the ever-growing AI database, have researched content read to them while driving, and interact with the car in natural language.”

This new feature is based on the ‘Cerence Chat Pro’ program from technology partner Cerence. Volkswagen describes itself as the first volume manufacturer to offer ‘ChatGPT’ in the initial markets and across many production models starting from the second quarter of 2024.

Enhancing Driver-Vehicle Interaction

The integration of ChatGPT aims to significantly improve the interaction between the driver and their vehicle. IDA, Volkswagen’s voice assistant, already handled basic functions like climate control and navigation. With ChatGPT, capabilities expand notably, allowing responses to questions about tourist attractions, football match reports, and even solving math problems. This not only simplifies everyday tasks but also makes driving more comfortable and safer.

Innovations for Distraction-Free Driving

The primary goal of this integration is to facilitate distraction-free driving. Drivers can now interact with their vehicle using natural language without taking their eyes off the road, marking a significant advancement in road safety. Passengers also benefit from this technology, with children, for example, entertained by stories and games during long trips without needing additional devices.

Volkswagen has effectively addressed privacy concerns. Queries are sent to the cloud only if IDA cannot resolve them locally, and these queries are sent anonymously, thus protecting user data. Additionally, users can disable this feature through the Volkswagen app, offering additional control over their privacy.

A Multilingual and Accessible Assistant

A notable feature of this integration is its multilingual capability. ChatGPT in Volkswagen vehicles can understand and respond in several languages, including Spanish, Czech, and German. This enhances its utility and accessibility to a diverse audience, which is especially important in a continent as diverse as Europe.

Volkswagen has announced that the expansion to North America is scheduled for the 2025 models, with a global rollout planned shortly thereafter. This demonstrates the company’s commitment to bringing this advanced voice assistance technology to a broader audience.

Volkswagen’s Commitment to Innovation

“Volkswagen has always democratized technology and made it accessible to many. This is simply rooted in our DNA. As a result, we are now the first volume manufacturer to make this innovative technology a standard feature in vehicles starting from the compact segment,” emphasized Kai Grünitz, member of the Board of Management for Technical Development at Volkswagen.

The integration of ChatGPT is an innovation poised to transform the driving experience in the coming years.

Update June 25, 2024

VW models with the new generation of infotainment are already on the road with ChatGPT’s artificial intelligence. The AI-based search tool is available in all new ID family vehicles, among others.

Voice assistants are used to input routes, control air conditioning, and manage other functions through infotainment. With ChatGPT, Volkswagen aims to “significantly” increase these possibilities.

Previously, in current Volkswagen models, it was possible to control infotainment, navigation, or air conditioning through the online voice assistant IDA. Now, Volkswagen wants the vehicle to potentially answer questions from various knowledge fields. For example, the AI could “provide information on tourist attractions, report on past football tournaments, or help solve math problems,” according to VW.

To use the function, a separate ChatGPT account is not required. Customers with a “VW Connect” or “VW Connect Plus” account can use the new features. Data privacy has also been considered: “Only if a query cannot be answered by the Volkswagen system is it anonymously forwarded to ChatGPT; the response is then provided with Volkswagen’s familiar voice. At no time does ChatGPT access vehicle data. Questions and answers are immediately deleted to ensure optimal data protection. The online voice assistant can be disabled in the settings area of the Volkswagen app or in the infotainment system’s privacy settings,” VW stated in a press release.

Conclusion

The integration of ChatGPT into Volkswagen’s vehicle design marks a revolutionary step forward in automotive technology. By embedding advanced AI capabilities into their infotainment systems, Volkswagen aims to enhance the driving experience by making it safer, more interactive, and significantly more convenient. This innovative feature allows drivers and passengers to interact with the vehicle in a natural, multilingual manner, access vast amounts of information seamlessly, and maintain focus on the road, thereby enhancing overall safety.

As Volkswagen prepares to roll out this technology to the North American market and globally, the company reinforces its commitment to democratizing advanced technology, making it accessible to a broader audience. This move not only highlights Volkswagen’s forward-thinking approach but also sets a new standard for in-car AI integration.

FAQs

What is the purpose of integrating ChatGPT into Volkswagen vehicles?

The purpose is to enhance the interaction between drivers and their vehicles, making driving more comfortable, safer, and interactive by using natural language processing to control functions and access information.

Which Volkswagen models will feature ChatGPT?

ChatGPT will be available in the electric ID family (ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, and ID.7), as well as in the new Golf, Tiguan, and Passat models.

When will ChatGPT be available in Volkswagen vehicles?

ChatGPT will be integrated into Volkswagen’s latest infotainment systems starting in the second quarter of 2024 in Europe, with expansion to North America expected for the 2025 models and a global rollout planned soon after.

How does ChatGPT improve the driving experience?

ChatGPT enhances the driving experience by allowing drivers to interact with their vehicle using natural language, access a vast AI database for information, control various car functions, and maintain focus on the road, thus improving safety.

How does Volkswagen address privacy concerns with ChatGPT?

Volkswagen ensures privacy by sending queries to the cloud anonymously only if the local system cannot resolve them. Users can also disable this feature through the Volkswagen app or the infotainment system’s privacy settings.

Is a separate account required to use ChatGPT in Volkswagen vehicles?

No, a separate ChatGPT account is not required. Customers with existing “VW Connect” or “VW Connect Plus” accounts can use the new features without creating additional accounts.

What languages does ChatGPT support in Volkswagen vehicles?

ChatGPT supports multiple languages, including Spanish, Czech, and German, enhancing its accessibility to a diverse audience.

Will passengers also benefit from ChatGPT in Volkswagen vehicles?

Yes, passengers can benefit from ChatGPT by using it for entertainment, such as listening to stories and playing games, making long trips more enjoyable without the need for additional devices.

What is the ‘Cerence Chat Pro’ program?

‘Cerence Chat Pro’ is the technology program from Volkswagen’s partner Cerence, which forms the basis of the new ChatGPT integration, enhancing the capabilities of the IDA voice assistant.

How can the online voice assistant be disabled in Volkswagen vehicles?

The online voice assistant can be disabled in the settings area of the Volkswagen app or in the infotainment system’s privacy settings.