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Imagine asking your car for a lunch recommendation or a quick history lesson on a nearby landmark—all while keeping your hands on the wheel. Volkswagen’s latest upgrade to its in-car assistant, IDA, now makes this possible by integrating ChatGPT. With this shift, Volkswagen isn’t just updating its technology; it’s reimagining the driving experience, making each journey smarter, smoother, and more connected.
Launched in September, the artificial intelligence (AI) assistant is rolling out across VW, Seat, Cupra, and Skoda models. By early 2025, the feature will also be available in other models across these brands.
Making driving more connected and conversational
Most drivers use voice assistants for basic tasks. They change the radio or adjust the temperature and not more. Volkswagen’s new ChatGPT-powered assistant, however, offers a deeper level of interaction. Whether it’s finding a nearby restaurant or details about landmarks along a route, both information and convenience are available on the go.
Volkswagen has teamed up with Cerence Inc., an automotive AI leader, to make this happen. Cerence’s approach uses local, in-car processing for quick commands. Saying “Hello, IDA” or pressing a steering wheel button activates the assistant. For complex queries, it then accesses ChatGPT’s extensive cloud-based abilities. This setup lets IDA handle extensive questions for a smoother, safer experience while on the road.
“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, VW’s board member.
The rollout of ChatGPT began with the 2025 Jetta and the 82kWh version of the 2024 ID.4, with more models joining the lineup over the coming months. Volkswagen is offering a free subscription for this service for up to three years in selected vehicles. Others will require a VW Plus Speech with AI subscription.
Stefan Ortmanns, Cerence CEO, sees this as a major step forward. “The Volkswagen and Cerence teams have together reached an important first milestone with the initial rollout of Cerence Chat Pro to drivers,” he explained. He explains that, aside from its knowledge and usability, it is also about making driving more enjoyable and connected.
Beyond in-car assistants
Volkswagen’s focus on AI is broader than just in-car interactions. The company has established an AI Lab to research new technologies that might connect its cars with everyday digital tools like smart home devices. Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume stresses the importance of partnerships in tech development. “Collaboration with tech companies is crucially important for us,” he said. “In the future, we intend to simplify cooperation in organizational and cultural terms. “
The lab is part of Volkswagen’s goal to link vehicles to the digital world, making cars a larger part of people’s connected lifestyles.
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