Volkswagen Integrates ChatGPT Into Several Models

German automaker Volkswagen has confirmed the integration of ChatGPT into several different models.

The first cars to benefit are all vehicles in the electric ID family, as well as the Golf hatchback, Tiguan SUV and Passat sedan.

The AI-based tool will be accessed through the latest version of VW’s IDA voice assistant and is claimed to offer a range of new options to drivers and passengers that go “far beyond” what was previously available.

Until now, IDA has allowed drivers to operate the likes of the infotainment, navigation and climate control system.

Now, with the use of ChatGPT, IDA can read out search results, for example, and use what VW describes as “natural language,” delivering a more evolved conversation that will allow the driver to fully concentrate and keep their eyes on the road.

Among the scenarios the automaker claims it could assist with are supplying information on tourist attractions, providing details on major sports tournaments or events and even solving math problems.

The integration is claimed to be seamless, allowing VW customers with an existing VW Connect or VW Connect Plus account to access the new tech, with no need for an additional app.

As has always been the case, IDA will be launched by saying “Hello IDA” or pressing a button on the steering wheel, and the ChatGPT-reinforced tech will be available in five languages – American English, U.K. English, Spanish, Czech and German.

Related:Volkswagen Integrating ChatGPT Into Vehicles, CES 2024

Any privacy concerns users may have are addressed by the fact that all questions and answers are deleted immediately and ChatGPT has no access to vehicle data.

“Volkswagen has a long tradition of democratizing technologies,” said Kai Grünitz, VW brand board member. “As a volume manufacturer, we make these technologies accessible to large numbers of people. 

“By seamlessly integrating ChatGPT into the backend of our voice assistant, we are now offering drivers the opportunity to use this artificial intelligence on a daily basis, thus underlining how innovative our products are.”

The integration has been enabled via a collaboration with Massachusetts software company Cerence and was first announced at CES this year, but only now are the cars becoming available to buyers.

VW isn’t alone among automakers in deploying the tech, with Mercedes and Stellantis also using ChatGPT.