Volkswagen Integrates ChatGPT with Plus Speech AI for Enhanced Voice Assistant Experience
Volkswagen is set to revolutionize the in-vehicle voice assistant experience with the integration of ChatGPT into its Plus Speech AI technology. The collaboration aims to enhance the capabilities of VW's IDA voice assistant, allowing it to provide more detailed and natural responses to driver and passenger queries.
Enhanced Features with ChatGPT Integration
The integration of ChatGPT into Volkswagen's Plus Speech technology will enable IDA to answer a wider range of questions and generate audio content with improved accuracy and natural language understanding. This new feature is expected to go live in the US later this week.
With this new integration, the 2025 Jetta, Jetta GTI, and MY24 ID.4 (82kWh battery) models will benefit from enhanced voice assistant capabilities. IDA, powered by Cerence Chat Pro, can now not only perform in-vehicle commands but also provide information on non-driving-related queries such as restaurant suggestions, road trip destinations, and even storytelling for entertainment purposes.
Cost and Availability
The availability and cost of Plus Speech with AI technology vary depending on the vehicle model. For example, the ID.4 and ID. Buzz models come with three years of Plus Speech with AI included for free. On the other hand, the GTI, Golf R, and Tiguan models include one year of the service with the purchase of the vehicle.
For vehicles like Jetta, Jetta GLI, and Taos, buyers can opt to purchase a Plus Speech with AI subscription via the myVW mobile app. Additionally, the 2026 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models will come pre-equipped with ChatGPT integration. A comprehensive list of Plus Speech-supported vehicles can be found on VW's website.
Future Implications and Industry Trends
Volkswagen's decision to integrate ChatGPT into its vehicles follows a trend in the automotive industry where AI-powered voice assistants are becoming increasingly common. Other automotive giants like General Motors and Mercedes have also explored the use of AI technology for enhanced in-car experiences.
As Volkswagen continues to roll out this new natural language AI technology to its vehicles, the company emphasizes that ChatGPT does not access any sensitive vehicle information. All session contextual data is promptly deleted to ensure maximum data protection and user privacy.
Stay updated with the latest technology news and innovations by subscribing to What's New Now. Get top stories delivered to your inbox every morning for your daily dose of tech updates.
By integrating cutting-edge AI technology like ChatGPT, Volkswagen aims to provide a seamless and intuitive voice assistant experience for its customers, setting new standards for in-vehicle connectivity and convenience.
