Volkswagen brings ChatGPT to its vehicles via voice assist

Sep 3, 2024

• Volkswagen adds ChatGPT as an additional resource for voice assistance
• Customers will have access to ChatGPT via Cerence Chat Pro to power a multitude of voice-friendly, hands-free experiences
• ChatGPT functionality will be available in most MY25 Volkswagen vehicles

Reston, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc., is pleased to announce the launch of its ChatGPT-integrated Plus Speech voice assistant in the United States. Starting September 6, 2024, this will be live first in 2025 Jetta and Jetta GLI models, along with MY24 ID.4 vehicles equipped with an 82-kWh battery, giving both existing and new customers access to an artificial intelligence database. Powered by Cerence Chat Pro, Volkswagen's IDA voice assistant now delivers a sophisticated and user-friendly voice prompting experience.

ChatGPT-enabled voice assistance will be available to customers through a Plus Speech with AI subscription in Volkswagen Car-Net®. Starting next week, ChatGPT functionality will be automatically activated for current owners of compatible MY24 ID.4 vehicles with an active Plus Speech subscription. MY25 ID.4 vehicles, including those equipped with the 62-kWh battery, will be ChatGPT ready later this year.

Most 2025 models will offer Plus Speech with AI as they enter the market. The ID.4 and ID. Buzz come with 3 years of Plus Speech with AI included at no additional cost, while the GTI, Golf R, and Tiguan will have 1 year included with vehicle purchase. The Jetta, Jetta GLI, and Taos will have the option to purchase a Plus Speech with AI subscription through the myVW mobile app. ChatGPT will be included in the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models in 2026.

Cerence Chat Pro, an automotive-grade ChatGPT integration, enhances the original Plus Speech subscription using generative AI. In addition to controlling navigation, infotainment and climate adjustment, Volkswagen's IDA voice assistant will be able to answer general knowledge questions and engage in natural, human-like conversations.

This voice assistant is activated by saying "Hello IDA" or "Hello Volkswagen" (depending on vehicle model) or by pressing the steering wheel's button. Previously, passengers could ask, "Hey, IDA, can you please set the temperature at 70 degrees?" However, the latest integration allows drivers and passengers to express themselves more vividly when seeking assistance. By simply saying, "Hi IDA, I'm chilly," the technology detects that the driver is feeling cold and will automatically activate the heating system.

When the car's local system can't fulfill a request, it seamlessly connects to the cloud, where Cerence Chat Pro processes the query, leveraging a multitude of sources, including ChatGPT, to provide accurate and relevant responses to nearly every query imaginable. This allows the IDA voice assistant to handle complex, conversational questions beyond standard automotive functions-such as suggesting restaurants, road trip destinations, or creating stories to entertain those in the car-transforming the driving experience into a truly hands-free journey.

ChatGPT does not access vehicle data. All session contextual data is deleted immediately to ensure maximum data protection. The feature prioritizes security and seamlessly integrates with the voice assistant's numerous capabilities.

About Volkswagen
Volkswagen of America, Inc. is an operating unit of Volkswagen Group of America, which is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Volkswagen of America sells the Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, Golf GTI, Golf R, ID.4, Jetta, Jetta GLI, Taos, and Tiguan vehicles through more than 600 independent U.S. dealers. Volkswagen Group of America operates a state-of-the-art assembly facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee which produces Volkswagen brand vehicles including the Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, and the ID.4. The global Volkswagen Group is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Visit Volkswagen at www.vw.com or media.vw.com to learn more.

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 500 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.

"VW", "Volkswagen", "Car-Net"', all model names and the Volkswagen logo are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. This information and any vehicle specifications are preliminary and subject to change.

Features and technical data apply to models offered in the USA. They may differ in other countries. Always pay careful attention to the road, and do not drive while distracted.

Plus Speech services require paid subscription, vehicle to be equipped with compatible infotainment system, acceptance of VW-Car Net Terms of Service, active data plan, and vehicle cellular and GPS connectivity. Available Plus Speech voice control functions vary based on vehicle equipment.

Plus Speech EV services offered for 3 years from vehicle in-service date. Requires a VW ID, myVW account, Car-Net subscription, acceptance of VW Car-Net Terms of Service, and vehicle cellular and GPS connectivity. Available voice control functions vary based on vehicle equipment.

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