Volkswagen has embraced the future by integrating ChatGPT artificial intelligence (AI) into its latest infotainment system. The state-of-the-art AI tool is now a standard feature in all new vehicles within the all-electric ID. family, as well as the new Golf, Tiguan, and Passat models. Accessible through the IDA voice assistant, this integration brings a myriad of new features that significantly enhance the previous voice control capabilities. Drivers can now have search results read aloud and interact with the car using natural language.
Kai Grünitz, Member of the Brand Board of Management responsible for Development, emphasised Volkswagen’s commitment to making innovative technologies accessible to a wide audience. He stated, “Volkswagen has a long tradition of democratising technologies. 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.”
Before the addition of ChatGPT, Volkswagen models already allowed users to control infotainment, navigation, and climate control systems using the IDA online voice assistant. The vehicle could also answer questions on various topics. With the introduction of ChatGPT, the capabilities have expanded exponentially. Now, the AI can provide information on tourist attractions, report on past football tournaments, or even help solve maths problems, all through natural language interaction.
Volkswagen customers with existing VW Connect or VW Connect Plus accounts can seamlessly use the IDA voice assistant without needing additional access or apps. Activating the assistant is as simple as saying “Hello IDA” or pressing a button on the steering wheel. Any queries that cannot be answered by the Volkswagen system are seamlessly forwarded to ChatGPT, which provides responses in the familiar Volkswagen voice. To ensure data protection, ChatGPT does not access vehicle data, and questions and answers are deleted immediately. For added privacy, the online voice assistant can be deactivated in the Volkswagen app or the infotainment system’s privacy settings.
The integration of ChatGPT isn’t limited to a single language; the technology is available in five languages: English (US), English (UK), Spanish, Czech, and German.
This groundbreaking step by Volkswagen has opened up a world of possibilities for drivers, offering a seamless and natural way to interact with their vehicles. The future of car AI integration has arrived, and it’s brought to you by Volkswagen.