• by Tanya Gazdik , June 15, 2023

Move over Alexa, ChatGPT is coming to Mercedes-Benz vehicles. 

The automaker is detailing its plans to expand the use of artificial intelligence and integrating it into the voice control of its vehicles. 

By adding ChatGPT, voice control via the "Hey Mercedes" MBUX voice assistant will become even more intuitive. An optional beta program for U.S. customers will begin on June 16 for over 900,000 vehicles equipped with the MBUX infotainment system1 and is expected to last three months.

Customers can participate via the Mercedes me app or directly from the vehicle using the voice command, "Hey Mercedes, I want to join the beta program." 

Mercedes-Benz is integrating ChatGPT through Azure OpenAI Service, leveraging the enterprise-grade capabilities of Microsoft's cloud and AI platform.

Findings will be used to further improve the intuitive voice assistant and to define the rollout strategy for large language models in more markets and languages.

The Mercedes-Benz MBUX voice assistant already allows customers to receive sports and weather updates, have questions answered about their surroundings, and even control smart functions. Soon, participants who ask the voice assistant for details about their destination, to suggest a new dinner recipe, or to answer a complex question, will receive a more comprehensive answer, all while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Mercedes-Benz aims to combine the best of both worlds, enhancing the validated data of the MBUX voice assistant with the more natural dialogue format of ChatGPT.

Mercedes-Benz retains complete control over the IT processes in the background. The voice command data collected is stored in the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, where it is anonymized and analyzed.

The automaker says data protection is a top priority. Customers will know at all times what information is collected and for what purpose. Mercedes-Benz protects all customer data from manipulation and misuse.

The integration is a milestone in the automaker’s goal of making its cars the center of customers' digital lives, says Markus Schäfer, member of the board of management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, chief technology officer, development and procurement.