As the worldwide automobile industry competes to introduce artificial intelligence (AI), Volkswagen is attracting attention by establishing an 'AI Research Institute'.
Reuters reported on the thirty first (local time) that Volkswagen established a latest AI research center to develop latest products using AI.
In line with this, the AI lab plans to work with technology firms in Europe, China, and North America to develop digital prototypes to enhance the functionality of its products.
“We wish to offer real added value to our customers through AI,” said Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume. “We aim to create a greater product experience by connecting the external digital ecosystem with the vehicle.”
The AI lab goals to develop early-stage prototypes in areas reminiscent of AI-optimized electric vehicle charging, predictive maintenance services, and voice recognition. At 'CES 2024' held in January, Volkswagen unveiled 'IDA Voice Assistant', a voice assistant using 'ChatGPT', with Serence, a voice recognition technology partner.
“The lab is not going to be situated inside Cariad, Volkswagen’s software division, or inside a selected brand, and can proceed faster than other processes inside the company,” the Volkswagen floor said. He added, “Promising prototypes shall be delivered, verified, and implemented by brands reminiscent of Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche.”
Meanwhile, Cariad, who has been in command of Volkswagen's software division for a few years, is now planning a restructuring that may, sarcastically, cut hundreds of jobs because it attempts to introduce a latest software architecture.
This announcement comes as global automakers are putting quite a lot of effort into AI.
Just the day before, Stellantis announced that it might install ChatGPT on Peugeot cars. French automaker DS Automobiles already began integrating ChatGPT at the tip of last 12 months, and Mercedes-Benz and Microsoft began testing ChatGPT support of their cars in June last 12 months.
As well as, BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, launched an AI-based smart automotive system equipped with automatic parking functions.
Reporter Park Chan cpark@aitimes.com