Volkswagen introduces ChatGPT in cars for advanced voice assistance | OpenAI Chat | OpenAI free | | Turtles AI

Volkswagen integrates ChatGPT into its vehicles, enhancing the IDA voice assistant to answer complex questions. Available on select models starting in 2025, requires Plus Speech subscription.

Key Points:

• Supported Models: Jetta, ID.4, ID Buzz, GTI, Golf R, Tiguan.
• Subscription Required: Some models require a Plus Speech with AI subscription.
• IDA Features: Both local and cloud responses, managed by ChatGPT.
• Graduated Availability: Available first on some models, others in 2026.

Volkswagen has announced that, starting September 6, 2024, its vehicles will support an AI-enhanced voice assistant from ChatGPT, developed in collaboration with Cerence, a company specializing in automotive AI solutions. The integration of ChatGPT represents a significant step forward compared to the current voice assistant, IDA, which will be able to respond not only to simple requests, such as setting the internal temperature, but also to more complex questions thanks to the cloud connection. When users ask, for example, for restaurant recommendations or stories, ChatGPT will handle the request, offering more elaborate responses than those processed locally by the IDA system.

In addition to answering general questions and controlling functions such as climate control and navigation, the upgraded system will also be able to provide detailed information on tourist attractions, past sporting events, and even solve mathematical problems. This technology, accessible via the IDA assistant, will be offered in collaboration with Cerence, a company specializing in automotive AI solutions. When users ask, for example, for restaurant recommendations or stories, ChatGPT will handle the request, offering more elaborate responses than those processed locally by the IDA system.

This new feature will initially be available on the 2025 Jetta and Jetta GLI models and the 2024 ID.4 with 82 kWh battery, with an extension to other models later this year. To access these features, drivers will need to subscribe to Volkswagen’s Plus Speech with AI service, although some models, such as the ID Buzz, ID.4, GTI, Golf R and Tiguan, will offer these features free for a limited time (until three years for ID models and one year for GTI, Golf R and Tiguan).

Volkswagen continues its tradition of making advanced technologies accessible to a broad audience, as highlighted by Kai Grünitz, member of the Brand Board of Management. However, some models, such as the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport, will not receive these features until 2026, underscoring a phased rollout of the new voice assistance capabilities.

Volkswagen thus strengthens its commitment to the integration of new technologies, offering an increasingly connected and personalized driving experience.