Volkswagen, in partnership with Bosch, is revolutionizing the electric vehicle (EV) experience through the testing of an autonomous parking and charging system. This innovative project aims to streamline the parking and charging process in large lots with EV charging stations, potentially reshaping urban landscapes.
Cariad, Volkswagen’s software subsidiary, and Bosch are conducting trials of an autonomous system that guides driverless EVs to available parking spaces equipped with charging stations. Upon reaching a free spot, a charging robot seamlessly initiates the charging process. Once charged, the EV autonomously relocates to another available parking space, allowing the charging robot to cater to the next electric vehicle in line. Initial trials are underway at Cariad’s Ingolstadt staff parking lot and Bosch’s Ludwigsburg facility in Germany.
Bosch and Mercedes-Benz had previously collaborated on an autonomous parking lot system. However, this venture with Volkswagen represents a fresh approach, addressing common challenges in current EV charging scenarios, such as long queues, cable management issues, and manual handling of charging cables.
Simultaneously, Volkswagen announced plans to integrate OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its vehicle lineup, commencing in the second quarter of 2024. This advanced chatbot will be available across all VW models, including popular ones like Tiguan, Passat, Golf, and the ID family of electric vehicles, initially launching in Europe before reaching the U.S. market.
Volkswagen leverages ChatGPT to enhance its in-car voice assistant, Interactive Dialogue Assistant (IDA), fostering more natural and intuitive communication between the car and the driver. Users can control basic functions like climate settings and receive responses to general queries, promising a seamless integration into the driving experience.
Crucially, Volkswagen emphasizes user privacy, assuring customers that no new accounts or app installations are required. Activation occurs through a simple greeting or steering wheel button press. OpenAI won’t access driving statistics, and all questions and answers are promptly deleted, ensuring a high level of data protection. As VW pioneers these advancements, the automotive industry witnesses a transformative intersection of automation, artificial intelligence, and electric mobility.