Facelifted Golf GTI To Receive ChatGPT Intelligent Voice Assistant – CarBuzz
The system will work with the Volkswagen voice assistant to provide new features and greater convenience.
Volkswagen has announced that it will implement ChatGPT into the infotainment systems of forthcoming vehicles, such as the ID.7 electric sedan and the facelifted Golf GTI.
Backed by Cerence Chat Pro, the AI system will enable the Volkswagen voice assistant to provide new features that exceed the capabilities of the existing voice control system. The automaker says the new assistant will be able to control the climate settings, navigation, and infotainment systems. Aside from that, it's also capable of answering general knowledge questions.
Furthermore, the AI will continuously learn to expand its capabilities. This, says VW, will benefit occupants on journeys. The ChatGPT system can answer questions, provide information about the vehicle, and even converse with the driver.
Technophobes need not worry. The owner doesn't need to do anything but keep their eyes on the road. The voice assistant is activated by saying "Hello IDA" or pressing a designated steering wheel button.
IDA can preempt whether a function needs to be performed and will prioritize what needs to be done. If the Volkswagen system cannot register a request, it is anonymously forwarded to the AI to be answered. However, the familiar VW voice assistant will still respond with the answer.
Volkswagen believes adding ChatGPT will bring cutting-edge technology to more people, making it more accessible. "We are now the first volume manufacturer to make this innovative technology a standard feature to vehicles from the compact segment upwards," said Kai Grunitz, a member of the Board of Management for technical development.
"Thanks to the seamless integration of ChatGPT and strong collaboration with our partner, Cerence, we are offering our drivers added value and direct access to the AI-based research tool," he added.
Don't fret if you have privacy concerns. The system does not have access to any vehicle data, and all questions (and answers) are deleted to ensure the best possible protection.
So when can we expect to see this in Volkswagen cars? Well, there's a chance American consumers may not even see this feature, as it is still "being considered for the United States." However, it will become a standard feature in many Volkswagen production vehicles in other markets starting from Q2 2024.
The German marque has come under fire for its cumbersome vehicle controls, particularly the touch controls for the audio and climate systems. A new infotainment system is expected shortly, and the ChatGPT-enabled voice control could be the brand's way of righting past mistakes.
ChatGPT has made its way into Mercedes vehicles and is also being considered by major American automakers.
Interestingly, Volkswagen has also teased the upcoming Golf facelift. We can see a revised rear end with slimmer taillights (connected by a fashionable light bar) and several other upgrades. Expect powertrain revisions and other enticing improvements when the venerable hatchback touches down later this month.
