In an exciting development, Volkswagen is expanding its ChatGPT voice assistant experiment to its vehicles in the United States. The German automaker initially announced its plans to incorporate an AI-powered chatbot into all Volkswagen models equipped with its IDA voice assistant at CES 2024. However, the United States was not included in the initial rollout. Now, Volkswagen is bringing its ChatGPT-integrated Plus Speech voice assistant, which utilizes Cerence’s Chat Pro product and OpenAI’s large language model, to new vehicles in the U.S.
The rollout of the ChatGPT voice assistant begins on September 6th, starting with the 2025 Jetta and Jetta GLI models, as well as the 2024 ID.4 vehicles equipped with an 82-kWh battery. As more 2025 models enter the market, most of them will offer the Plus Speech with AI feature.
It’s important to note that there is a subscription requirement for this service. However, Volkswagen is offering three years of free access to the ID.4 and ID Buzz models, which is a great incentive for customers.
This move by Volkswagen showcases the growing trend of integrating AI-powered voice assistants into vehicles to enhance the driving experience. Voice assistants have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many consumers utilizing them in their homes through devices like smart speakers. Now, Volkswagen is bringing this technology on the road, allowing drivers to interact with their vehicles using natural language.
The ChatGPT voice assistant offers a range of functionalities, including providing information about the vehicle, answering questions, and even engaging in casual conversation. It leverages Cerence’s Chat Pro product, which is known for its conversational capabilities, combined with OpenAI’s advanced language model.
By integrating ChatGPT into its vehicles, Volkswagen aims to provide a seamless and intuitive user experience. Drivers can easily control various aspects of their vehicle, such as adjusting the temperature, changing the radio station, or even navigating to a specific destination, simply by using their voice. This not only enhances convenience but also promotes safety by minimizing distractions.
The incorporation of AI-powered voice assistants in vehicles is a significant step towards the future of automotive technology. As voice recognition and natural language processing continue to improve, we can expect more advanced and personalized interactions between drivers and their vehicles.
Volkswagen’s decision to bring ChatGPT to the U.S. market demonstrates its commitment to providing innovative and cutting-edge features to customers. By offering the Plus Speech with AI feature in their vehicles, Volkswagen is catering to the evolving needs and preferences of modern drivers.
In conclusion, Volkswagen’s expansion of its ChatGPT voice assistant to its U.S. vehicles signifies a significant advancement in automotive technology. With the integration of AI-powered chatbots, drivers can enjoy a more intuitive and convenient driving experience. As this trend continues to grow, we can expect voice assistants to become an integral part of the future of transportation, revolutionizing the way we interact with our vehicles.