Las Vegas — At Monday’s CES media preview, several important automotive announcements were made in Las Vegas. Both are related to artificial intelligence, also known as AI.
Volkswagen is adding ChatGPT to its new vehicles — EVs and international combustion engine models. VW showed off a new production model of the ID.7 EV and a new prototype of the Golf GTI.
“We will be adding artificial intelligence in the form of ChatGPT in first markets in the second quarter of this year,“ said Kai Grunitz, member of the management board for technical development at the Volkswagen Brand. “Not only in our all-electric ID models but also in our vehicles with combustion engines. We are doing this for two good reasons: First, Volkswagen has always democratized technology and made it accessible to everyone. This is simply part of our DNA. We are scaling AI. From the Volkswagen Group, we are responsible for two important platforms: The MQB evo for combustion engines and the MEB for our electric vehicles. The second good reason…is that it’s relevant to our customers. Their needs have changed fundamentally in recent years. We are seeing new functions and new features with a great level of convenience.”
The ID.7 is now being sold in Europe and China. The new Golf will celebrate its 50th anniversary in a few days.
Hyundai Motor Company talked about hydrogen energy and software-driven innovation within vehicles. The theme of their presentation was “Ease every way.”
Jose Munoz, president and CEO of HMC: “How can Hyundai improve how people and goods move more sustainably, more efficiently and safer? For Hyundai, it starts with our executive chair which we call ‘Progress for Humanity.’ Whether it’s vehicles powered by hydrogen, autonomous driving or automated robots, Hyundai has a strong point of view on the future of mobility. We have the resources to bring this vision to reality.”
The Korean automaker says hydrogen and fuel cell technology will play a prominent role. The company wants to become a hydrogen energy provider.
Munoz: “Hyundai is the first mover in hydrogen. We were the first to mass produce hydrogen fuel cell cars and trucks. We sold the most of them to date. We are introducing a way to turn organic waste—and even plastic—into clean hydrogen. This is unique in our industry. We will also unveil solutions for a complete hydrogen value chain on a global scale.”
Hyundai also talked about its new software-driven innovations. The CEO says the company is making the shift from hardware-defined vehicles to software-driven mobility devices.
“We’re shifting the way we’re developing vehicles and how we’re paving the way into the future. You can see it in action now. Right outside, you can ride in an IONIQ5 robotaxi. We’re also partnering with Amazon here in the U.S. where you will be able to buy vehicles online soon. AWS is our preferred Cloud provider. Starting next year, you will be able to access Alexa inside our vehicles. Starting next year, our cars will give you the convenience of home on the road.”
Artificial intelligence is one of the big themes at CES this year.
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