Last updated: Jun 16, 2023 at 07:08 UTC

Mercedes-Benz is introducing artificial intelligence (AI) into over 900,000 vehicles through a trial of a voice assistant system called ChatGPT. The company announced on June 16 that all Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the United States with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) interface will have the option to participate in the beta program. By simply saying, “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program,” drivers can sign up for the AI-powered voice assistant in their vehicles or through the automaker’s “me” application.

The integration of ChatGPT aims to complement Mercedes-Benz’s existing voice control feature by enhancing its capabilities. While most voice assistants are limited to predefined tasks and responses, ChatGPT, a language model, significantly improves natural language understanding and widens the range of topics it can respond to. Users will be able to ask the voice assistant driving-related and non-driving-related questions, and the chatbot should provide comprehensive answers.

The voice assistant will collect anonymized voice command data, which will then be analyzed and stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud system. Mercedes-Benz has been exploring AI and blockchain projects for some time. For example, in January 2022, the automaker collaborated with non-fungible token (NFT) artists to commemorate the G-Class series model, and in July 2020, it began using Ocean Protocol’s blockchain to gather various user data. In addition, the company introduced its own cryptocurrency in March 2018 to promote eco-friendly driving.

FAQs

1. What is ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is an AI-powered voice assistant system developed by Mercedes-Benz. It is a language model that enhances natural language understanding and expands the range of topics it can respond to compared to other voice assistants.

2. How can Mercedes-Benz owners participate in the beta program?

Mercedes-Benz owners with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) interface can participate in the beta program by saying, “Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program” while in their vehicle. Alternatively, they can sign up through the automaker’s “me” application.

3. What data does the voice assistant collect?

The voice assistant collects anonymized voice command data, which is then analyzed and stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud system.

4. What other AI and blockchain projects has Mercedes-Benz been involved in?

Aside from the integration of ChatGPT, Mercedes-Benz has collaborated with NFT artists to create digital art and has used blockchain technology to gather user data. The company also introduced its own cryptocurrency to promote eco-friendly driving.

5. Is the beta program only available in the United States?

Yes, the beta program for Mercedes-Benz’s AI voice assistant is currently only available in the United States.

Summary

Mercedes-Benz is launching a beta program for its AI-powered voice assistant system, ChatGPT, in over 900,000 vehicles in the United States. The integration of ChatGPT aims to enhance Mercedes-Benz’s existing voice control feature by providing comprehensive answers to a wide range of driving-related and non-driving-related questions. The voice assistant will collect anonymized voice command data, which will be analyzed and stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud system. Mercedes-Benz has been involved in other AI and blockchain projects, such as collaborating with NFT artists and using blockchain technology to gather user data.