Mercedes-Benz will be one of the first automakers on the planet to roll out improved voice command technology that is more conversational thanks to Google Cloud’s new Automotive AI Agent.
The technology will first be rolled out with the new Mercedes-Benz CLA and takes advantage of Google’s artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, Gemini, as well as data from Google Maps. The technology will roll out to the German automaker’s other MBUX Voice Assistant-equipped vehicles soon after.
The appeal of the update will be the ability to have more natural and longer-lasting conversation with vehicle's infotainment system. That will allow drivers to ask a question and receive an answer without having to guess what key words they need to utter in order to get the right information.
Mercedes-Benz provides the following example: A CLA driver will be able to ask “Could you guide me to the nearest fine-dining restaurant for a unique culinary experience?” and receive an answer. They will also be able to ask follow-up questions, such as, “Does the restaurant have good reviews?” and they will receive an answer related to the correct restaurant.
The automaker added that Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent will allow the CLA to give drivers multi-turn dialogue on the road, and will retain memory of an interaction throughout a drive.
"Our partnership with Google Cloud will further enhance in-car navigation, combining sophisticated location data with generative AI," said Ola Källenius, Mercedes-Benz CEO. "Launching with the new CLA, our next-gen navigation will allow drivers and passengers to use voice commands to obtain comprehensive and personalized information within seconds."