Volkswagen has announced that models equipped with the AI-based chatbot, ChatGPT, will soon be available. Volkswagen’s ChatGPT functionality can be experienced in all new models from the ID family featuring next-generation infotainment systems, as well as in the new Tiguan, Golf, and Passat.

Previously, Volkswagen unveiled the new Golf GTI and ID.7 Pro, integrating ChatGPT into the IDA voice assistant, at the CES 2024 held in January.

The functionality available through the IDA voice assistant surpasses previous voice control options, providing search results and allowing users to interact with the vehicle in everyday language, offering a wide variety of new options.

Kai Gruenitz, a member of the Board of Management responsible for brand development at Volkswagen, stated, “With a long tradition of democratizing technology, Volkswagen strives to enable many people to experience these innovations as a volume brand in mass production. By integrating ChatGPT into the backend of the voice assistant, we provide drivers with opportunities to use AI technology daily, showcasing how innovative our products are.”

Currently, Volkswagen models can control infotainment, navigation, and climate control systems through the IDA online voice assistant, while also answering questions on various topics. With the introduction of ChatGPT into this system, the potential to provide additional information on a variety of inquiries has greatly expanded. For instance, AI can provide information about tourist attractions, football match results, and even assist with mathematical problems.

All these features operate intuitively, allowing drivers to simply speak in everyday language to the IDA voice assistant without taking their eyes off the road.

Volkswagen customers with existing accounts like VW Connect or VW Connect Plus can activate the IDA voice assistant feature simply by saying ‘Hello, IDA’ or pressing a button on the steering wheel without needing to create additional accounts or install apps.

The IDA voice assistant only forwards inquiries to ChatGPT anonymously when it cannot answer the driver’s questions, providing responses in a familiar Volkswagen voice. Furthermore, ChatGPT does not access vehicle data under any circumstances, and to ensure optimal data protection, questions and answers are deleted immediately. This feature can be disabled in the privacy settings of the Volkswagen app or infotainment system.

Cerence, a global leader in automotive AI solutions and voice recognition technology, ensures that the IDA voice assistant provides accurate and relevant information by utilizing various sources, including ChatGPT. Thus, Volkswagen vehicles equipped with the IDA voice assistant can respond to nearly any conceivable question.

Currently, the IDA voice assistant integrated with ChatGPT supports five languages, including English (US, UK), Spanish, German, and Czech.

Yoo Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr