Volkswagen and Cerence Commence Roll-Out of New Generative AI Solutions to Drivers
Volkswagen has announced the deployment of Cerence Chat Pro, an AI-powered in-car voice assistant integration using ChatGPT, across its European vehicle lineup, including both new and legacy models. This marks the first time the solution is available to drivers. The deployment covers five languages and includes multiple Volkswagen Group brands such as Cupra, Seat, and Skoda. Initially introduced at CES 2024, this integration aims to provide drivers with a more interactive and conversational experience. Volkswagen plans to extend this rollout globally, including the US, by early 2025.
- Volkswagen is the first automaker to deploy Cerence Chat Pro via cloud update.
- The deployment covers five languages, enhancing accessibility.
- Includes multiple Volkswagen Group brands like Cupra, Seat, and Skoda.
- Cerence Chat Pro provides a more interactive and conversational in-car experience.
- The rollout will continue globally, including in the US, by early 2025.
- No immediate financial metrics or performance data provided.
- Potential risks associated with relying on AI for critical in-car functions.
Insights
Cerence Chat Pro represents a significant advancement in the automotive technology sector. This integration of generative AI into Volkswagen vehicles means that drivers now have access to a sophisticated voice assistant that leverages AI to provide more natural and engaging interactions. This development can enhance the driving experience by making it more interactive and informative.
From a technical perspective, the integration of ChatGPT's large language model allows the voice assistant to handle a wide range of queries, providing credible and relevant responses. This technology goes beyond simple command and control, incorporating real-time, web-based information to ensure that users receive up-to-date and contextually appropriate answers. The availability in multiple languages also adds to its versatility and appeal across different regions.
However, the reliance on cloud-based updates and the integration of such advanced AI poses certain challenges. Data privacy and security concerns are paramount, especially given the sensitive nature of in-car interactions. It will be important for Volkswagen and Cerence to address these issues proactively to maintain user trust.
Thus, while the adoption of Cerence Chat Pro is a notable leap forward in automotive AI, it must be accompanied by stringent data protection measures to ensure its sustainable success.
The launch of Cerence Chat Pro in collaboration with Volkswagen is a strategic move that could positively impact both companies' market positions. For Volkswagen, incorporating cutting-edge generative AI into their vehicles can differentiate them from competitors, potentially driving higher customer satisfaction and loyalty. This move is in line with the industry trend towards more connected and intelligent vehicles, appealing to tech-savvy consumers who prioritize advanced features.
From a market perspective, the rollout across various models, including the new ID. models and legacy vehicles, suggests a broad deployment strategy aimed at maximizing reach and impact. This can lead to increased consumer adoption and familiarity with the technology, fostering a stronger brand association with innovation.
For Cerence, this partnership with a major automotive player like Volkswagen bolsters its position in the market. It showcases Cerence's capabilities in delivering robust AI solutions tailored for the automotive industry. This could open doors to further collaborations and contracts with other automakers, expanding Cerence's market footprint.
That said, the success of this rollout will depend on user acceptance and the perceived value of the AI assistant in enhancing the driving experience. Continuous improvement and updates, along with effective marketing, will be critical in sustaining momentum.
Volkswagen is the first automaker to deploy Cerence Chat Pro via cloud update to cars already on the road, as well as new production vehicles
BURLINGTON, Mass., June 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cerence Inc. (NASDAQ: CRNC), AI for a world in motion, today announced that Volkswagen Group has deployed Cerence Chat Pro, the company’s uniquely intelligent, automotive-grade ChatGPT integration, to models across Volkswagen’s European lineup via cloud update, marking the first time the solution is available to drivers. Cerence and Volkswagen first announced their collaboration to launch these new, generative AI-powered enhancements to the IDA in-car assistant at CES 2024 earlier this year.
Volkswagen is leveraging Cerence Chat Pro to enable its customers across Europe to engage the in-car voice assistant in fun and conversational chit-chat, leveraging a multitude of sources, including ChatGPT’s large language model, to provide credible and relevant responses to nearly every query imaginable. Built specifically for the in-car experience, Cerence Chat Pro is integrated into Volkswagen’s IDA voice assistant, which leverages Cerence’s hybrid approach to deliver seamless interaction across both vehicle command and control features embedded in the car’s headunit as well as access to cloud-based content and real-time, web-based information.
Cerence Chat Pro is now live in five languages – English (US), English (UK), German, Spanish, and Czech – across Volkswagen Group brands, including Volkswagen, Cupra, Seat, and Skoda, that use the IDA voice assistant. This includes all new Volkswagen ID. models, the updated Golf, the new Tiguan, and the new Passat, as well as legacy models.
“Volkswagen has a long tradition of democratizing technologies. As a volume manufacturer, we make these technologies accessible to large numbers of people. By seamlessly integrating ChatGPT into the backend of our voice assistant, we are now offering drivers the opportunity to use this artificial intelligence on a daily basis, thus underlining how innovative our products are,” said Kai Grünitz, Member of the Volkswagen Brand Board of Management responsible for Development, in a Volkswagen announcement.
“The Volkswagen and Cerence teams have together reached an important first milestone with the initial roll out of Cerence Chat Pro to drivers,” said Stefan Ortmanns, CEO, Cerence. “We are proud to partner with Volkswagen Group to deliver immediate value to their drivers as they look to leverage generative AI while on the go. These new capabilities – which will continue to expand – make the IDA voice assistant more knowledgeable, capable, and valuable than ever and enable a safer and more enjoyable journey.”
Volkswagen’s roll-out of Cerence Chat Pro will continue globally, including in the US, later this year and through early 2025, and including new features and improvements.
To learn more about Cerence, visit www.cerence.com, and follow the company on LinkedIn.
About Cerence Inc.
Cerence (NASDAQ: CRNC) is the global industry leader in creating unique, moving experiences for the mobility world. As an innovation partner to the world’s leading automakers and mobility OEMs, it is helping advance the future of connected mobility through intuitive, AI-powered interaction between humans and their vehicles, connecting consumers’ digital lives to their daily journeys no matter where they are. Cerence’s track record is built on more than 20 years of knowledge and 475 million cars shipped with Cerence technology. Whether it’s connected cars, autonomous driving, e-vehicles, or two-wheelers, Cerence is mapping the road ahead. For more information, visit www.cerence.com.
Kate Hickman | Tel: 339-215-4583 | Email: kate.hickman@cerence.com
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