Volkswagen to Launch Locally-Tailored AI Voice Assistant for China Models in H2, Powered by Tencent, Alibaba, and Baidu

Volkswagen plans to introduce an AI voice assistant feature in its China-market vehicles in the second half of 2024. The system enables voice-controlled operation of multiple vehicle functions and utilizes a locally trained large language model, with all computations processed onboard the vehicle without relying on cloud connectivity. This AI assistant integrates technologies from companies including Tencent, Alibaba, and Baidu, aiming to create an intelligent tool with “personality” capable of anticipating drivers’ needs. Additionally, the first jointly developed model by Volkswagen and XPeng, the ID. UNYX 08, officially launched on April 16, with prices ranging from RMB 229,900 to RMB 289,900. Built on an 800-volt high-voltage ultra-fast charging platform, the vehicle comes standard across all trims with XPeng’s VLA full-scenario advanced driver-assistance system, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295P chip delivering 1,500 TOPS of autonomous driving computing power. It is equipped with CATL batteries, offering a maximum CLTC-rated range exceeding 700 kilometers.