Volkswagen and Cerence Launch In-Car Generative AI Solution

Cerence Inc., AI for a world in motion, announced that Volkswagen Group has deployed Cerence Chat Pro and integrated the unique intelligent automotive-grade ChatGPT application into European models through a cloud update, marking the first time the solution is available to drivers. Previously, at CES 2024, Cerence and Volkswagen first announced their collaboration to launch the new IDA in-car assistant feature driven by generative AI.

Volkswagen is leveraging Cerence Chat Pro to enable its customers across Europe to engage in fun and natural conversational chats with their in-car voice assistant, leveraging multiple sources of information, including ChatGPT’s large language model, to provide accurate and relevant responses to nearly every conceivable query. Built specifically for the in-car experience, Cerence Chat Pro has been integrated into Volkswagen’s IDA voice assistant, which can leverage Cerence’s hybrid solution to enable seamless interaction with the car’s built-in command and control functions, as well as access to cloud-based content and real-time web information.

Currently, Cerence Chat Pro supports five languages: English (US), English (UK), Spanish, Czech and German, and is suitable for Volkswagen Group brands that have been equipped with the IDA voice assistant, including Volkswagen, Cupra, Seat and Skoda. The new function will be applied to all new models of the Volkswagen ID. series, as well as the upgraded Golf, the new Tiguan and the new Passat, and will also support older models.

“Volkswagen has always been committed to making cutting-edge technologies accessible. As a leading volume car brand, we are committed to making these technologies accessible to the majority of people. By seamlessly integrating ChatGPT into the voice assistant backend, we are giving drivers the opportunity to use these artificial intelligences every day, thereby highlighting the innovativeness of our products,” said Kai Grünitz, member of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars Brand Management Board and head of technical development, in a statement released by Volkswagen .

“Together, Volkswagen and the Cerence team have reached an important first milestone with the first release of Cerence Chat Pro to drivers,” said Dr. Stefan Ortmanns, CEO of Cerence. “We are honored to be working with the Volkswagen Group to deliver immediate value to drivers who are looking to leverage generative AI on the road. These new features will continue to expand, making the IDA voice assistant more knowledgeable, capable and valuable than ever before, making the journey safer and more enjoyable.”

Volkswagen plans to continue rolling out Cerence Chat Pro globally, including in the U.S., later this year and in early 2025, with new features and improvements.