Mercedes set to introduce AI tool ChatGPT to new range of vehicles

German car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz has announced that it is to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) into its voice control functionality in a new range of vehicles.

GPT stands for "Generative Pre-trained Transformer", a family of large language models that have been trained to create or summarise texts, answer questions, and generate copy from a written or spoken prompt.

ChatGPT has risen to prominence in recent months, and has been used in a variety of ways across many different industries.

Created by OpenAI., it will now be used as a part of MBUX Voice Assistant's Hey Mercedes.

The optional beta programme will be available to over 900.000 vehicles equipped with the MBUX infotainment system. It is currently only available in the USA.

Customers can use the function through the Mercedes Me app or directly from the vehicle using the voice command “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta programme”.

Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, Chief Technology Officer, Development & Procurement, commented: “The integration of ChatGPT with Microsoft in our controlled cloud environment is a milestone on our way to making our cars the centre of our customers’ digital lives.

“Our beta programme boosts the existing Hey Mercedes functions such as navigation queries, weather requests and others with the capabilities of ChatGPT. This way, we aim to support conversations with natural dialogues and follow-up questions.

“Our customers can always rely on us to ensure the best possible protection of their data privacy. Everything is under one big goal: Redefining the relationship with your Mercedes.”

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Data protection is a top priority for Mercedes-Benz when it comes to protecting the customers.

Owners of new Mercedes vehicles who take part in the programme will be made aware at all times what information is collected and for what purpose.

They aim to ‘protect all customer data from manipulation and misuse’.

The America-based focused beta programme is expected to last three months. According to Mercedes-Benz their ‘developers will gain helpful insights into specific requests, enabling them to set precise priorities in the further development of voice control’.

Therefore, findings from the beta programme will be used to improve the intuitive voice assistant and to help create a rollout strategy for more markets and languages around the world.

What do you make of the announcement by Mercedes-Benz? Should more manufacturers look to introduce AI tools to their new vehicles? Leave your comments below.