Volkswagen offers ChatGPT in some new models

Volkswagen models with the new generation infotainment system are now also equipped with the AI ​​function ChatGPT.

The new vehicles that have this function include the entire electric ID. family as well as the new Golfs, Tiguans and Passats.

Access is possible via the IDA voice assistant, the search results are read out to the drivers and enable them to interact with the car in natural language, explained Volkswagen.

“Volkswagen has a long tradition of democratizing technology,” said Kai Grünitz, member of the brand’s Board of Management for Development, in a press release. “By seamlessly integrating ChatGPT into the backend of our voice assistant, we now offer drivers the opportunity to use this artificial intelligence on a daily basis.”

Current Volkswagen models can already answer questions on various topics and control infotainment, navigation and air conditioning systems using the online voice assistant IDA. With the introduction of ChatGPT, however, the possibilities have expanded significantly, VW explained in the press release.

“The AI ​​can, for example, provide information about sights, report on past football tournaments or help with solving math problems. It all works intuitively: the driver simply speaks to the assistant in natural language and does not have to take his eyes off the road.”

Volkswagen customers with an existing VW Connect/VW Connect Plus account can use the voice assistant IDA as usual. The digital assistant is started by saying “Hello IDA” or pressing a button on the steering wheel.

Questions that the Volkswagen system cannot answer are forwarded anonymously to ChatGPT. According to Volkswagen, ChatGPT has no access to vehicle data.

Questions and answers are deleted immediately to ensure optimal data protection, the statement says. The online voice assistant can be deactivated in the settings of the Volkswagen app or in the data protection settings of the infotainment system.

In January 2024, Volkswagen presented the first vehicles with ChatGPT integrated into the IDA voice assistant at the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

The technology is currently available in English (US), English (UK), Spanish, Czech and German.

During a CIECA webinar in May, Gaurav “Rav” Mendiratta, CEO of SocioSquares and Chief Product Officer at Propel, said that the total volume of text written by humans is estimated to be about 10 trillion words and that ChatGPT is expected to be trained on that within a year.

However, Mendriatta said the technology also has its limitations, including hallucinations. She also sometimes lacks common sense and her long-term memory is limited, Mendriatta said.

Mendriatta demonstrated that ChatGPT can be used to get instructions on what to do after a car accident or a broken window.

“…I envision that in the near future, virtual AI assistants will be built into cars, providing real-time advice and reassurances to reduce stress and ensure that important information is accurately recorded,” he said.

Pictures

Featured image provided by Volkswagen

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