Mercedes-Benz is expanding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into its vehicles by introducing ChatGPT, powered by Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, to its MBUX equipped vehicles for customers in the United States. This advancement enables users to engage with a voice assistant that not only understands natural voice commands but also conducts conversations, allowing drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and their focus on the road.
Unlike conventional voice assistants that have limited capabilities, ChatGPT utilizes a sophisticated language model to enhance natural language understanding and expand the range of topics it can respond to. This means that participants who interact with the Voice Assistant will receive more comprehensive answers, whether they seek information about their destination, request a new dinner recipe, or pose complex questions.
To kickstart the implementation of this new feature, Mercedes-Benz is launching an optional beta program starting June 16, 2023, in the United States. This program will be available to over 900,000 vehicles equipped with the MBUX infotainment system. Interested customers can join the beta program either through the Mercedes me app or by using a voice command directly in the vehicle, saying, “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program.”
The rollout of the beta program will occur over the air, ensuring a seamless update process for participants. Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer for Development & Procurement, describes the integration of ChatGPT as a significant milestone towards transforming Mercedes-Benz cars into the center of customers’ digital lives. By enhancing existing Hey Mercedes functions such as navigation queries and weather requests with ChatGPT’s capabilities, the aim is to facilitate natural dialogue and follow-up questions during conversations. Importantly, Mercedes-Benz is committed to safeguarding customer data privacy throughout this process.
This move aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s AI principles, ensuring that the advantages of innovative AI solutions are accessible to its customers. By embracing the power of AI-driven voice assistants, Mercedes-Benz aims to redefine the relationship between drivers and their vehicles, providing a seamless and engaging experience within the car’s digital ecosystem.
