Volkswagen Plans To Present AI-Based Prototypes To Build A More Advanced Ecosystem

AI-based ChatGPT technology in Volkswagen vehicles. (Doc. Volkswagen Group)

JAKARTA - Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology is currently in the spotlight because of its crucial role in various sectors, including the automotive industry. Volkswagen, a German automotive company, has plans to integrate this system in the creation of the latest digital prototype and advanced features.

Reporting from Reuters on Wednesday, January 31, the company is currently in talks with international technology companies. In its preparation, Volkswagen has set up an AI laboratory to produce the latest product ideas, including possible cooperation with technology companies in China, North America, and Europe.

The company's main goal is to create early-stage prototypes in various fields, such as AI-based charging facilities, predictive maintenance services, and voice recognition, to make it easier for customers to meet their needs.

The exploration stage has already started with international technology companies related to the initial project, a Volkswagen spokesperson said.

This facility will later not be integrated into Volkswagen Cariad software units or other brands, with the aim of moving faster than other company internal processes. Even so, the prototype will remain under scrutiny from the lab board which includes representatives of various brands under the Volkswagen Group, including Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche.

With this step, the German company plans to expand the use of AI in the automotive industry after previously launching the technology at the 2024 Consumer Electronic Show (CES).

At CES 2024, the world's leading electronics show, VW introduced its first vehicle that uses an AI-based ChatGPT chatbot connected to the company's IDA voice assistant. Consumers can easily access artificial intelligence databases that cover all VW models, with the help of IDA voice assistants, as well as conduct research on content read out to them while driving. The technology was developed by the Cerence Chat Pro of technology partner Cerence Inc, which offers ChatGPT integration for automotive.

This artificial intelligence system will be embedded in the latest infotainment technology on several models, such as ID.7, ID.4, ID.5, ID.3, All New Tiguan, All New Passat, and the latest Golf. This feature is scheduled to become standard equipment starting in the second quarter of 2024.