Skoda joins ChatGPT: what changes to expect this summer

Skoda is adding ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence chatbot, to its next-generation infotainment system. This follows the example of sister brand Volkswagen, which debuted the technology at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.

ChatGPT will be used to enhance Skoda's Laura voice assistant and will be available in some versions of the all-electric Enyaq and Enyaq Coupe, the next generation of Skoda Superb and Kodiaq SUVs to be launched later this year, and the updated Octavia, which is scheduled for launch in February 2024. Currently, Skoda's voice assistant can be used to control the infotainment system and air conditioning, as well as answer some general questions, among other things. But in the future, artificial intelligence will provide new features, such as answering other questions using intuitive language and "enriching conversations," writes Autoexpress.

Activating a voice assistant will be no different: drivers or passengers will only need to say "Okay, Laura" or press a button on the steering wheel. If the car's system is unable to fulfill the request, it will ask the AI for help. Skoda emphasizes that ChatGPT does not have access to any car data or personal information, and all interactions are immediately deleted after processing to protect your data.

Skoda CEO Klaus Zellmer believes that "enriching Skoda voice assistance with artificial intelligence makes our cars even better everyday companions. Drivers and passengers will have easy verbal access to worlds of knowledge while traveling."

He added: "The integration of ChatGPT into our Laura voice assistant is just the latest way Škoda is adapting advanced technology to enhance the driving experience. The driver remains hands-free while data security remains a priority."